Banbury, Haltwhistle, Hindley and Irlam in the race to be crowned World Cup of Stations 2026 champion

The race to crown the World Cup of Stations 2026 champion begins on Monday 12 October, with Banbury, Haltwhistle, Hindley and Irlam competing for the public’s support. 

Bringing the rail industry together to celebrate “The stations creating connections that matter”, this year’s competition gives people the chance to choose their Station of the Year. The four contenders in the North West and West Midlands are among 20 stations shortlisted across Britain for the difference they make to the people and communities they serve. 

Following over 150 nominations from the public, a judging panel selected stations whose stories show how the railway brings people and places together. Now it is over to the public to decide which one deserves the crown. 

The shortlisted stations in the North West and West Midlands area: 

• Banbury celebrates the people who make its community special, bringing their portraits and stories into the station. Alongside local trails, art and accessible improvements, it has created a gateway where the town can see itself and visitors feel invited to explore. 

• Haltwhistle has turned historic station buildings into places where local life can flourish: an education and events space, makers’ market, café and affordable studios. New jobs and support for small businesses make the station a sustainable community hub. 

• Hindley’s award-winning Friends group has made the station a vibrant community hub for volunteers, schools and local organisations. Its partnership with Thrive CIC helps young people and adults with additional needs build skills, confidence and meaningful connections. 

• Irlam has made its station a place where local history is shared and community life thrives. Tours, school visits and its much-loved café connect generations with the railway’s past while creating new memories and friendships today. 

Dan Mann, co-CEO of Rail Delivery Group, said: "This competition is an opportunity to celebrate the wider impact of our railways. The stories behind this year’s shortlisted stations show how rail helps people and communities thrive. Whether opening up opportunities, supporting local projects or bringing people together, each of these stations is making a real difference.  

“As we move towards a simpler, more joined-up railway through Great British Railways, these stations highlight the important role our railway plays in connecting people, places and communities.  

“This is your chance to celebrate that work. Read the stories, get behind your favourite and help us crown this year’s champion.” 

Tricia Williams, Managing Director of Northern, said: “We’re delighted that three of our stations have been shortlisted for this year’s World Cup of Stations. 

“The credit must go to the volunteers who have worked extremely hard to turn all three of these stations into thriving community hubs.    

“People in Irlam are very proud of their station, which is filled with fascinating railway memorabilia and home to a fantastic bar café. It is used to host a number of events throughout the year and people even get married there. 

“Hindley station is best known for its brilliant station gardens, which are tended to by volunteers who also work to tackle social isolation by helping people with additional needs gain the confidence to travel by train. 

“The historic station in Haltwhistle is a hugely important part of the local community, providing offices and studios for small businesses as well as a café, events space and a monthly market.” 

Michael Stewart, Commercial and Customer Strategy Director at Chiltern Railways, said: "Celebrating local communities and the pride people feel in the places they call home is central to creating a welcoming and vibrant station environment, so we are delighted that Banbury has been shortlisted this year. 

"Banbury station is much more than a transport hub. It is a focal point for community connection and local identity. Initiatives such as People of Banbury have celebrated the town's rich diversity and unique stories, demonstrating how the station can bring people together, showcase local talent and create a genuine sense of belonging for residents and visitors alike."

Last year, Ashington took the title following the return of passenger services after a 60-year absence. This year, Banbury, Haltwhistle, Hindley and Irlam will be hoping to follow in its footsteps. 

Voting takes place online at raildeliverygroup.com/WorldCupOfStations from 00:01, Monday 12 to 23:59, Sunday 18 October. On the evening of Wednesday 14 October, the leading station from each regional group will progress to the final stage, leaving five stations in the race for the crown. The station receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner on Tuesday 20 October. 

Make your voice heard and help crown the World Cup of Stations 2026 champion.