Britain’s Best Train Station named in World Cup of Stations 2024: Maghull on Merseyrail network secures title thanks to ‘vibrant green space’ and thriving coffee cafe
Britain’s best train station has been named Maghull after emerging victorious in the national grand final of the 2024 World Cup of Stations.
The station, at the Merseyrail networkbeat finalists King’s Lynn and Dorridge to claim first place in the competition, organized by the Rail Delivery Group.
It says Maghull’s success is down to its vibrant green space, maintained by dedicated volunteers, and thriving Coffee Carriage cafe.
The cafe, founded by two local entrepreneurs, has become a community hub, offering a range of hot drinks, ‘artisan baked goods’ and ‘a welcoming atmosphere that has attracted regular commuters and residents alike’, according to Merseyrail.
Neil Grabham, Managing Director of Merseyrail, commented that The Coffee Carriage is a ‘wonderful example of what a local business can do to support its community’, adding that ‘Maghull station has changed from one where people come to catch a train to where they are now networking.’
Britain’s best train station has been named Maghull (above), after emerging victorious in the national grand final of the 2024 World Cup of Stations
Maghull’s success was ‘driven by its vibrant green space, maintained by dedicated volunteers, and the thriving Coffee Carriage café’
Rory McLellan, owner of The Coffee Carriage, revealed how the secret to his success was simply ‘engaging with the community’.
He said, “Everyone who comes in, you treat them like they’re family.”
The cafe hosts various community groups, including a charity helping children with cancer, a ‘Knit and Natter’ afternoon, cycling groups and mental health groups.
Rory added: “The support we have received has been overwhelming and as a small business still establishing itself in this community it really means a lot. This win means so much to us, and it’s incredible to see our channel recognized on a national level. We are proud to be a small part of what makes Maghull such a special place.”
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said: “I am absolutely delighted that Maghull Station has been nationally recognized and I know how much this means to all the people involved.
‘This fantastic achievement is a testament to the incredible spirit of our local community, as well as the hard work of the station team and volunteers.
Neil Grabham, Managing Director of Merseyrail, talks to Rory McLellan, owner of The Coffee Carriage
Maghull (above) now joins the ranks of previous winners including Wemyss Bay (2023), Stourbridge Junction (2021) and Huddersfield (2019)
‘Together with the people at The Coffee Carriage, they have turned Maghull into a real community hub where people feel welcome and connected.
“Winning this title is a celebration of everything that makes Liverpool City Region special, and I would like to thank everyone who voted for us and supported us.”
The Rail Delivery Group said: ‘The competition saw station staff, volunteers, train operators and passengers from across the country embrace the competition, with more than 100,000 votes cast.’
Maghull now joins the ranks of previous winners including Wemyss Bay (2023), Stourbridge Junction (2021) and Huddersfield (2019).
