For many years a commuter train left King's Cross at around 5pm and terminated at Essendine, before returning the next morning.

The 'South' Signal-box at Essendine was enlarged, not long after it was built, and by the time the station closed, had well over a hundred levers.

[citation needed] The world speed record for steam locomotives at 125.88 mph (202.58 km/h) was achieved on 3 July 1938 by LNER Class A4 4468 Mallard.

Taking place on the slight downwards grade of Stoke Bank south of Grantham on the East Coast Main Line, the highest speed was recorded at milepost 90¼, between Little Bytham and Essendine.

In April 1910 this had improved to 10 services, although some required a change at Peterborough, and the best time was 1 hour 46 mins via the Nottingham - London express at 08.54.