Par, Yatton, Crediton and Haverfordwest 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 Par, Yatton, Crediton and Haverfordwest 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 Wales and the West region 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 Wales and the West area: 

• Par is a station where volunteering opens doors. Through gardening, customer service, ticket-office experience and passenger assistance, local people build confidence, skills and independence creating friendships, pathways to work and a sense that every contribution matters. 

• Crediton’s former station buildings now host a popular community café and an inclusive music and arts home. People with learning disabilities and autism travel from across Devon to make music, build friendships and enjoy a space shaped around their needs. 

• Yatton brings volunteers, a social-enterprise café and a community cycling hub together in one inclusive destination. Adapted cycles and active-travel support help more people build confidence, independence and new connections through sustainable journeys. 

• Haverfordwest has brought young people, artists, community groups, public services and the railway together to reimagine the station through art. The project gives young people a meaningful role in shaping a more welcoming gateway and strengthens confidence and connection across the town. 

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.” 

GWR Customer Services Director Rachel Geliamassi said: "Whether it's a first job opportunity at Par, a music session at Crediton or an adapted bike ride from Yatton, these stations are changing lives in quiet but lasting ways. 

"That's down to the brilliant volunteers and partners we're lucky to work with, and it makes the station a better place for everyone who passes through. We'd love to see the region's support turn into votes." 

James Gough, Customer Operations Director at TfW, commented: "We're delighted Haverfordwest has been shortlisted for this year's World Cup of Stations. 

"It's well-deserved recognition for the hard work of a number of local partners to come together and make meaningful improvements for the benefit of the local community." 

Last year, Ashington took the title following the return of passenger services after a 60-year absence. This year, Par, Yatton, Crediton and Haverfordwest 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.