[2] The station opened on 1 July 1870[3][4] and was the next finished extension west from Lithgow after Wallerawang had been finalised four months earlier.

The complex comprises:[2] Rydal is served by NSW TrainLink's daily Central West XPT service operating between Sydney and Dubbo.

[8][9] As at 27 November 2000, the station building was constructed when the line opened to Rydal and retains its original form from that period.

The changing view of the structure from the road is the visual focus of the town which is now a remnant of its previous importance as a centre for the production of fine wool.

[2] Rydal railway station was listed on the New South Wales State Heritage Register on 2 April 1999 having satisfied the following criteria.