In October 1846, the company was leased to the East Lancashire Railway, which opened the line on 2 April 1849; among the original stations was that at Maghull.

Train running information is provided by digital display screens, automated announcements and timetable posters.

[7] The station is at street level and two small ramps provide access to the platforms.

There is a level crossing at the south end (the only one on the Walton Junction to Ormskirk section) and a pedestrian footbridge linking each platform.

Maghull was the 2024 recipient of the World Cup of Stations, awarded by the Rail Delivery Group.