The station was opened in 1906 by the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway, and was originally named Orrell Park Halt; this was simplified to Orrell Park by British Rail.

Orrell Park is the most convenient station for the Walton Vale shopping area.

As with most Merseyrail stations, it has a ticket office that is fully staffed from start of service until after the last train has left (closing shortly after midnight).

There is a refreshment vending machine provided and waiting shelters on each platform, with train running information provided by automated announcements and digital display screens.

The ramps to the platform and the footbridge both have steps, but there is a lift available for disabled passengers.