The station is managed by Great Western Railway and is situated on the Cornish Main Line 10 miles 33 chains (16.8 km) from the line's northern terminus of Plymouth[1] and 256 miles 28 chains (412.6 km) from London Paddington via Box and Plymouth Millbay.

[2] To the east of the station, the thirteen arch stone viaduct of 1908 (which replaced the original timber one built in 1859) takes the railway over the River Tiddy.

It was described at the time as"of ornamental design ... conveniently situated close to the town, and consists of arrival, departure, and goods stations, all three being constructed of stone".

A second guard, Richard Paddon, was given a reward of five pounds (equivalent to £633 in 2023)[6] for his part in keeping the remainder of the train on the viaduct and helping to rescue the survivors.

[7] Both platforms have step-free entrances (though the footbridge linking them has steps) and basic facilities - waiting shelters, bike racks and bench seats on each side.