A small train station in Liverpool has been named as the best in the UK, beating much larger and busier rivals.
Maghull Railway Station took the top spot in the Rail Delivery Group’s World Cup of Stations, beating other finalists like King’s Lynn and Dorridge.
The suburban station won praise for its free parking, bus exchange services and a warm community feel.
Its historical roots date back to its opening in 1849 and are matched by its eye-catching appearance.
The station has colourful flower boxes and a “secret garden” filled with train-themed sculptures, which are cared for by local volunteers.
Doreen Bird, the Chairwoman of the Maghull Volunteers, said the group was founded around 20 years ago by Nigel Winchester and Alan Pritchard.
She added that volunteers “work throughout the year to keep the station looking tidy,” tending to the plants and picking up litter.
But it’s not just visitors who are impressed with the station.
Local rail user Maureen Webb told the BBC: “It’s clean, it’s well cared for by the staff and volunteers who do a wonderful job.
“If there were more people like that in the world, we’d be much better off.”
The station is decorated with artwork including murals and a stained-glass window and has recently added to its community spirit with an on-site café called Coffee Carriage.
Owned by locals Rory McLellan and Craig Reeves, the café has now become a community hub hosting events like knitting groups, charity meet-ups and men’s mental health groups.
“It’s a real community feel,” said June Avery, a member of the station’s walking group.
“It’s bringing people together. You get off the train, and it really lightens your mood,” she added.
Despite serving only around 1.1 million passengers last year – few compared to major UK stations like London Liverpool Street with 80 million – Maghull’s community spirit and charm have made it a standout.
