It joined the network on 31 March 2002, following the opening of the extension from Pelaw to South Hylton.

The station originally opened on 19 June 1839 as Cleadon Lane, under the Brandling Junction Railway.

Although passenger service is operated by Tyne and Wear Metro, the track is owned and maintained by Network Rail with other operators using the route, including LNER, Northern, GB Railfreight and DRS Railfreight.

As well as Seaburn, Brockley Whins and Heworth, East Boldon was formerly served by rail services operating along the Durham Coast Line between Sunderland and Newcastle.

The station is also equipped with ticket machines, waiting shelter, seating, next train information displays, timetable posters, and an emergency help point on both platforms.