The station is on the Manchester-Buxton Line 16+1⁄4 miles (26.2 km) south east of Manchester Piccadilly.

Until 1983, the station had an active signal box and served as a terminus for some trains to/from Manchester.

The platform is on a tight curve and was some 30 cm too low for the height of the carriages used, making it difficult to access for people with mobility problems.

The problem was addressed by Network Rail in 2012, who rebuilt the Buxton platform and installed an Easy Access ramp on the Manchester-bound side.

Train running information is provided via help points on each platform, digital CIS displays, timetable posters and automated announcements.