[6] The tracks in the station are located well above street level; the National Rail buildings were damaged by fire in 1983.

A proposed line alternative through Birkbeck station from Crystal Palace railway station to Beckenham Junction was considered for conversion to a Tramlink route but Transport for London has dropped the plan on the grounds that the existing rail service is adequate.

[7][citation needed] All National Rail services at Birkbeck are operated by Southern using Class 377 EMUs.

The stop is served by London Buses routes 354 and 356 which provide connections to Beckenham, Bromley, Elmers End, Penge and Sydenham.

[citation needed] Free interchange for journeys made within an hour is available between bus services and between buses and trams is available at Birkbeck as part of Transport for London's Hopper Fare.