London Liverpool Street Station is a major transportation hub located in the City of London. As the third busiest railway station in the United Kingdom 1, it serves millions of passengers every year and acts as a central point for those traveling to and from East Anglia and Essex. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of London Liverpool Street Station, covering its train lines and services, facilities, opening hours, nearby accommodation, things to do, and its rich history.
Discover London Liverpool Street Station: a major transport hub connecting London to East Anglia.
Train Lines and Services
Located in the City of London on the eastern side of the capital, London Liverpool Street Station serves as the terminus for lines from East Anglia and Essex 2. It is very well served by public transport, accessible by the London Underground and city bus routes, meaning connections from the city center are fast and frequent 2. Travelers heading to Stansted Airport can take advantage of direct train services from Liverpool Street Station, provided by Greater Anglia and the Stansted Express 3.
The station offers a wide array of train services to numerous destinations:
| Train Operator | Destinations |
|---|---|
| Greater Anglia | Cambridge, Norwich, Ipswich, Stansted Airport, Hertford East, Southend Victoria, Braintree, Clacton-on-Sea |
| c2c | Services via Stratford during engineering works and on weekends |
| London Overground | Chingford, Enfield Town, Cheshunt |
| Elizabeth line | Shenfield, Abbey Wood, Reading, Heathrow Airport, Paddington |
| Underground | Access to the Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines |
In addition to the destinations listed above, train services are also available to Harwich International Port 3, providing convenient access to ferry connections.
Station Facilities
London Liverpool Street Station boasts a wide range of facilities to cater to the needs of its passengers.
Tickets and Information
The ticket office is open during station hours and is located adjacent to Platform 10 5. It offers assistance with ticket purchases and inquiries. Automated ticket machines are also available throughout the station for quick and easy ticket purchases 5.
Restrooms and Baby Changing
Standard restrooms are located down the stairs opposite platform 11. Accessible restrooms and baby changing facilities are available adjacent to platform 10 3.
Shopping
A variety of shops are located within the station, offering a diverse shopping experience. These include:
- WHSmith: For books, magazines, and stationery.
- Boots: For health and beauty products.
- Oliver Bonas: For unique gifts and homeware.
- Accessorize: For fashion accessories and jewelry.
- Hotel Chocolat: For delicious chocolates and gifts.
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Restaurants and Cafes
Passengers can find a wide selection of dining options within the station, offering everything from quick snacks to sit-down meals. Some popular choices include:
- AMT Coffee: For a caffeine fix and pastries.
- Camden Food Co.: For fresh and healthy meals.
- Caffe Nero: For Italian-style coffee and snacks.
- Leon: For naturally fast food.
- Krispy Kreme: For delicious doughnuts and coffee.
- Panopolis: For a taste of Greece.
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Left Luggage
Excess Baggage Company offers left luggage services near platform 10, allowing you to store your belongings securely while you explore the city or attend to business 1. The cost is £7.50 for up to 3 hours and £15 for 24 hours 1. For alternative luggage storage options, consider using luggage storage apps like Bounce and Cubby, which offer convenient and affordable services near the station 1. These apps provide a simple way to find and book luggage storage facilities, ensuring your belongings are safe and secure.
Waiting Rooms
Relax and unwind in the comfortable waiting areas before your departure 3.
Lounges
Although there is no First Class Lounge at London Liverpool Street Station, it is open from 07:00 to 20:00 3.
Accessibility
The station provides step-free access to all platforms, with lifts and escalators available to navigate different levels with ease 3. Accessible toilets, ticket machines, and a help point are also provided to ensure a comfortable journey for all passengers 3.
Other Amenities
In addition to the facilities mentioned above, London Liverpool Street Station offers a range of other amenities for your convenience:
- ATMs: Located on the concourse for easy access to cash.
- Currency Exchange: For exchanging foreign currency.
- Payphones: For making calls.
- WiFi: Free public Wi-Fi is available throughout the station.
- Photo Booths: Capture memories of your journey.
- Water Fountains: Stay hydrated with free drinking water available near WHSmith and the passenger lift 5.
Station Opening Hours
London Liverpool Street Station is open throughout the week with the following hours:
| Day | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 03:10 – 01:03 |
| Tuesday – Thursday | 04:00 – 01:03 |
| Friday – Saturday | 03:10 – 01:03 |
| Sunday | 03:40 – 01:03 |
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Current Disruptions
As of February 8, 2025, there are some disruptions affecting services to and from London Liverpool Street Station:
- Elizabeth line: No service between Stratford and Shenfield due to planned engineering work. Replacement buses operate 8.
- Central line: No service between North Acton and West Ruislip due to planned engineering work. Replacement buses operate 9.
- Greater Anglia: Delays to services in the Stansted Mountfitchet area due to a points failure 10.
Recent Engineering Works
Major engineering works took place at London Liverpool Street Station between December 27, 2024, and January 1, 2025 11. These works focused on enhancing the station infrastructure and included:
- Renewing shed roof panels: Replacing life-expired and damaged roof panels to improve weather protection and bring more natural light into the station 12.
- Adding more ticket gates: Increasing pedestrian capacity by adding more ticket gates for platforms 1-10 to ease congestion and improve passenger flow 12.
During this period, the station concourse and in-station retail shops were closed to the public. Train services were significantly affected, with many diverted to start or terminate at Stratford or other locations. Replacement bus services were in operation to minimize disruption to passengers 11.
Accommodation near Liverpool Street Station
Liverpool Street Station offers convenient access to a variety of hotels, catering to different budgets and preferences:
- Andaz Liverpool Street—a Concept by Hyatt: A 5-star Victorian hotel located just steps away from the station, offering luxury and convenience 14.
- Pan Pacific London: A lavish luxury hotel for those seeking a truly indulgent stay 14.
- The Hoxton, Shoreditch: A trendy and comfortable hotel that captures the spirit of its hip neighborhood 14.
Things to do near Liverpool Street Station
Liverpool Street Station’s prime location in the City of London places you within walking distance of several attractions, offering a variety of experiences for travelers 2:
- Spitalfields Market: A vibrant market where you can shop, eat, and soak up the lively atmosphere 14.
- Leadenhall Market: A historic covered market with a unique character, offering a range of shops and dining options 14.
- Brick Lane: A bustling street known for its street art, vintage shops, and curry houses 14.
History of Liverpool Street Station
Liverpool Street Station has a rich history dating back to its opening in 1874 1. It was originally built as a dual-level station with provision for the Underground, reflecting its forward-thinking design and its importance as a transportation hub 15.
Synthesis and Conclusion
Liverpool Street is a vital transportation hub that plays a crucial role in connecting London with East Anglia and Essex. With its extensive train services, comprehensive facilities, and convenient location, it serves as a gateway for millions of passengers each year. From its historical origins as a dual-level station to its recent renovations and expansions, London Liverpool Street Station continues to evolve and adapt to the needs of modern travelers. While disruptions and engineering works may occur periodically, the station strives to provide a seamless and efficient travel experience for all its users. Passengers are advised to check for the latest travel information before their journey to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, Liverpool Street Station offers a unique experience with its blend of history, convenience, and modern amenities. Plan your journey today and discover all that this bustling transportation hub has to offer.
Works cited
- Liverpool Street Station Luggage Storage Guide 2024, accessed on February 8, 2025, https://www.luggagestoragelondon.co.uk/liverpool-street-station
- London Liverpool Street (LST) Train Station | Tickets and Timetables – Omio, accessed on February 8, 2025, https://www.omio.com/train-stations/united-kingdom/london/london-liverpool-street
- London Liverpool Street Station | National Rail, accessed on February 8, 2025, https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/stations/london-liverpool-street/
- London Liverpool Street Train Station Information – Greater Anglia, accessed on February 8, 2025, https://www.greateranglia.co.uk/travel-information/station-information/lst
- London Liverpool Street – Facilities, Shops and Parking Information – Network Rail, accessed on February 8, 2025, https://www.networkrail.co.uk/communities/passengers/our-stations/london-liverpool-street/
- London Liverpool Street Station Map – August 2024 (1) – Network Rail, accessed on February 8, 2025, https://www.networkrail.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/London-Liverpool-Street-Station-Map.pdf
- Liverpool Street – Station map – National Rail, accessed on February 8, 2025, https://assets.nationalrail.co.uk/e8xgegruud3g/20ai7pmQ8JqgKToXOqMOZD/de2260886f00777364f51e68832c3371/CCS0723844574-001_Liverpool_street_2023v4.pdf
- London Liverpool Street Rail Station – Transport for London, accessed on February 8, 2025, https://tfl.gov.uk/overground/stop/910GLIVST/london-liverpool-street-rail-station?lineId=london-overground
- Liverpool Street Underground Station – Transport for London, accessed on February 8, 2025, https://tfl.gov.uk/tube/stop/940GZZLULVT/liverpool-street-underground-station?lineId=central
- Greater Anglia JourneyCheck for journeys to London Liverpool Street – Train times and live real time delay/cancellation/disruption information., accessed on February 8, 2025, https://www.journeycheck.com/greateranglia/search?from=&to=LST
- Engineering works: London Liverpool Street | National Rail, accessed on February 8, 2025, https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/engineering-works/london-liverpool-street-20241227/
- London Liverpool Street Improvement Programme – Network Rail, accessed on February 8, 2025, https://www.networkrail.co.uk/running-the-railway/our-routes/anglia/improving-the-railway-in-anglia/london-liverpool-street-improvement-programme/
- London Liverpool Street station closed for works until January – Colchester Gazette, accessed on February 8, 2025, https://www.gazette-news.co.uk/news/24821328.london-liverpool-street-station-closed-works-january/
- London Liverpool Street station: best shops, hotels & food near the train station – Trainline, accessed on February 8, 2025, https://www.thetrainline.com/en-us/via/europe/uk/england/london/what-to-do-around-liverpool-street-station
- en.wikipedia.org, accessed on February 8, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liverpool_Street_station#:~:text=Liverpool%20Street%20was%20built%20as,Hammersmith%20%26%20City%20and%20Metropolitan%20lines.