The station opened in 1848 as part of the Harrogate to Church Fenton Line of the York and North Midland Railway.

[3] This short branch line is marked as still extant on the 1947 New Popular Edition Ordnance Survey map.

The goods yard signal box was unusual in that it contained a Ransomes & Rapier "Hayrake" lever frame, which is now preserved at the North Tyneside Steam Railway.

[1] The site was bought by Tadcaster Rural District Council and, after obtaining permission in 1971, it was completely demolished, with some of the stonework being reclaimed for new housing in the town.

Part of the trackbed is still visible over a bridge over the River Wharfe at nearby Boston Spa.