Fairfield station, originally known as Fairfield for Droylsden, was a junction with a pair of lines from the east breaking off and running to the south; this thereby facilitated a route, called the Fallowfield Loop, to Longsight, south Manchester and Manchester Central station.

By means of a switchback to Gorton and Openshaw station, this branch enabled the turning round of locomotives without need for a turntable in the area.

This could have been invaluable for servicing both the Guide Bridge yards and the facilities of Gorton and Beyer, Peacock & Company locomotive factories.

No step-free access is provided, with only staircases in place to the main entrance from both platforms.

[4] Glossop Line trains do not serve Fairfield, running fast between Ashburys and Guide Bridge.