On a mild October Friday, the buzz at Maghull railway station is palpable, even though rush hour has passed. This North West station is bustling with energy, far from the quiet platforms one might expect. Recently, Maghull has gained significant attention, having been crowned the best station in the UK as part of the 2024 World Cup of Stations competition.
Curious about what sets Maghull apart, I ventured to the scene. The first impression? A spacious, free parking lot, complete with a bus exchange service—definitely a win for commuters. A charming brick building ushers visitors into a cozy ticket office, and the recently opened Coffee Carriage café is just around the corner. A stylish footbridge connects the platforms, adorned with a stunning stained glass window showcasing local artistry.
As I make my way in, I encounter Margaret Walton, an 85-year-old volunteer armed with a litter-picker and an infectious smile. Margaret shares her dedication to keeping the station clean, stating, “I come every day, even on Christmas.”
Yet, Margaret’s contributions reach far beyond litter-picking. She has painted intricate murals that illustrate daily station life, bringing warmth and character to the surroundings. When I asked if she had formal training in art, she chuckled, “Oh no, I taught myself! They wouldn’t let me into college because I couldn’t spell.”
Outside, beautifully maintained planter boxes and whimsical sculptures reflect the hard work of the Maghull Volunteers, a group founded nearly 20 years ago. Chairwoman Doreen Bird, 81, shared her passion for the station’s aesthetics: “It’s amazing how much people appreciate the beauty of the station. One lady told me, ‘It makes me smile every Monday morning when I really don’t want to go to work.’ That’s what keeps us going.”
During my visit, passengers congratulated staff, highlighting how the station isn’t just functional—it’s a community hub that brings joy. Maureen Webb, an 81-year-old tailor on her way to a charity event, praised the station’s cleanliness and care. “If there were more people like the staff and volunteers, the world would be a better place,” she said.
The Gillespie family echoed this sentiment. New to the area, Tom, 67, gushed, “It’s incredibly friendly here. You get off the train and feel welcomed.” His wife, Marie, added, “It may be small, but it’s beautiful.”
Maghull has truly transformed into a communal space. The arrival of The Coffee Carriage in February has not only drawn locals but also hosted events ranging from casual knitting sessions to discussions on mental health. June Avery of the Friday Strollers walking group commented, “You step off the train, and it just lifts your mood. It feels like a real community here.”
Barista Liz Roger encapsulated the station’s essence when she said, “It’s not just about serving coffee; it’s about being part of the community. People love coming here, and we love having them.”
Inside the café, I chatted with Sonya Hampson, the station manager for eight years. Sonya explained that the station’s vibrant community spirit didn’t happen overnight. “It’s about having a dedicated team and passionate volunteers who take pride in their work,” she said.
When I asked what other stations might learn from Maghull, she said, “To create a sense of community, it’s essential to find the heart of it and foster a shared passion for the station.”
Angela Horton, a retailer at Maghull for 17 years, reflected on the joy of working in such an environment: “It really sets a positive tone for the day. Seeing all the flowers in bloom makes everything feel right.” Her colleague Ray Badrock, who also cherishes the friendly atmosphere, added, “It’s a place where everyone knows each other. We call each other by our first names, and that adds to the warmth.”
At Maghull railway station, it’s clear that community spirit thrives, showcasing how dedication and love can transform a humble transport hub into a beloved local landmark.