Moorfields Railway Station

Moorfields Railway Station Liverpool: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Moorfields Railway Station lies at the heart of Liverpool’s city centre, serving as a critical interchange on the Merseyrail network. Since opening in 1977, it has offered not just efficient connectivity across the region but also a fascinating glimpse into Liverpool’s postwar urban ambitions. The station’s distinct architecture, shaped by the city’s “streets in the sky” vision, and its proximity to major cultural sites make it both a practical gateway and a site of local significance (Liverpool Echo; Merseyrail).

This guide provides detailed information on Moorfields’ history, architecture, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, nearby attractions, and travel tips, ensuring a smooth and enriching visit for both commuters and tourists.

Moorfields and the Shankland Plan: Visionary Urban Design
Construction, Opening, and the Legacy of the Skyways
Key Architectural Features
Visiting Hours and Ticketing Information
Accessibility Details
Travel Connections and Station Layout
Nearby Attractions and Sightseeing Tips
FAQs
Summary and Final Tips
References

Moorfields and the Shankland Plan: Visionary Urban Design

Moorfields Station was conceived during a time of radical change in Liverpool’s urban planning. In 1965, the Shankland Plan envisioned a city transformed by elevated pedestrian walkways—“streets in the sky”—to separate foot traffic from vehicles and link business, shopping, and transport hubs. Moorfields was designed as a cornerstone of this network, with an elevated ticket hall meant to connect directly to these overhead walkways (Liverpool Echo).

Though the skyways ultimately proved unpopular and were gradually removed, the station’s unique vertical layout remains as a reminder of this ambitious era.

Construction, Opening, and the Legacy of the Skyways

Construction began in the 1970s as Liverpool sought to modernize its rail network and replace the outmoded Liverpool Exchange station. Moorfields opened in 1977 (Northern Line platforms) and 1978 (Wirral Line platform), at a cost of around £2 million (Wikidata). While the elevated walkways were largely dismantled by the late 20th century, traces remain in the station’s design—such as the bricked-up bridge over Old Hall Street.

Today, Moorfields stands as a rare surviving example of the “streets in the sky” period, with its passenger flow requiring ascent to the ticket hall before descending to deep underground platforms (Liverpool Echo).

Key Architectural Features

Moorfields’ layout is unique among Merseyrail stations. Passengers enter via two main entrances: Moorfields Street (primary, step-free access) and Old Hall Street (weekday-only, no lift access). All travelers ascend to an elevated ticket concourse before using escalators or lifts to reach the Northern and Wirral Line platforms below. This design was intended to integrate with now-demolished skywalks and offers a distinctive experience, especially for first-time visitors.

Noteworthy features include:

Multi-level underground platforms
Glass-reinforced polyester cladding
Wide corridors and a pedestrian subway
Remnants of skyway infrastructure visible around the station (Liverpool Echo)

Visiting Hours and Ticketing Information

Opening Hours:

General station hours: ~5:00/5:30 AM until after midnight, aligned with first and last train services
Old Hall Street entrance: Closes at 7:00 PM (Monday to Friday only)

Ticketing:

Tickets available at staffed ticket offices, self-service machines, and online via Merseyrail
Contactless payment accepted at machines and gates
“Liverpool Stns” ticket valid at all four city centre stations (Moorfields, Lime Street, Central, James Street)
Day Saver tickets: Unlimited off-peak travel from £4.80 (one area) or £6.40 (all areas)
Railcards and local travel cards (Metro Cards, Saveaway, Railpass) accepted

Tip: For live updates and mobile tickets, consider using the official Merseyrail app or travel apps like Audiala.

Accessibility Details

Moorfields is committed to accessible travel:

Step-free access via lifts at the Moorfields Street entrance (lifts have 800mm-wide doors—check device compatibility)
Accessible ticket machines, tactile paving, induction loops, and accessible toilets (RADAR key required)
Staff available to assist; pre-booking recommended for travelers with mobility needs
The Old Hall Street entrance is not step-free and is open only on weekdays

Detailed accessibility guidance can be found at the Merseyrail accessibility page.

Travel Connections and Station Layout

Lines Served:

Northern Line: Frequent services to Southport, Ormskirk, Kirkby, and Hunts Cross (every 5–15 minutes)
Wirral Line: Trains to Birkenhead, Chester, Ellesmere Port, New Brighton, and West Kirby (every 5 minutes; reduced frequency evenings/Sundays)

Station Facilities:

Newsagent, convenience store, vending machines, Wi-Fi, live departure screens, CCTV
Cycle storage: 32 secure indoor spaces + 32 outdoor racks
Toilets (including accessible/National Key facilities), seating areas

No left luggage facilities—for storage, use Liverpool Lime Street station.

Nearby Attractions and Sightseeing Tips

Moorfields’ central location places it within walking distance of Liverpool’s premier attractions:

St George’s Hall: Renowned neoclassical concert and events venue
Walker Art Gallery: Major art collection
Liverpool Central Library: Architectural and cultural highlight
The Royal Albert Dock: Historic waterfront, museums, and restaurants
The Cavern Club: Legendary music venue
Liverpool ONE: Shopping and leisure district

Travel Tips:

Visit off-peak (mid-morning/early afternoon) for a quieter experience
Use the “Liverpool Stns” ticket for flexible city centre travel
Download walking tour apps or join city tours near the station
Check live service updates on Merseyrail or National Rail

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are Moorfields’ opening hours?
A: Open daily from around 5:00/5:30 AM until after midnight; Old Hall Street entrance closes at 7:00 PM weekdays.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Tickets available at staffed offices, machines, or online. Contactless and travel cards accepted.

Q: Is Moorfields fully accessible?
A: Step-free at Moorfields entrance (with lifts); Old Hall Street is not accessible. For assistance, pre-book or speak to staff.

Q: Can I store luggage at the station?
A: No—use Liverpool Lime Street station for luggage services.

Q: How do I reach Liverpool John Lennon Airport?
A: Train to Liverpool South Parkway, then bus (86A or 80A) to the airport.

Q: What are the closest taxi ranks?
A: The nearest are at Liverpool Lime Street or other city centre locations.

Summary and Final Tips

Moorfields Railway Station is more than a transit point—it is a unique piece of Liverpool’s transport history, an example of bold postwar urban planning, and a seamlessly connected gateway to the city’s top attractions. With extended hours, accessible facilities, and flexible ticketing, it caters to all travelers. Whether you’re commuting, sightseeing, or exploring Liverpool’s dynamic heritage, Moorfields offers convenience and an authentic local experience. For up-to-date travel information, always consult official resources or the Merseyrail app, and plan your journeys to make the most of what Liverpool has to offer (Liverpool Echo; Merseyrail; Biennial Wayfinding Guide).

References

Moorfields Railway Station in Liverpool: History, Visiting Hours, and Travel Tips, 2023, Liverpool Echo (Liverpool Echo)
Moorfields Station Liverpool: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Transport Guide, 2025, Merseyrail (Merseyrail)
Moorfields Railway Station: A Unique Underground Landmark and Visitor Guide in Liverpool, 2024, VisitLiverpool (VisitLiverpool)
Visiting Moorfields Railway Station: History, Accessibility, Tickets, and Travel Tips in Liverpool, 2024, National Rail and Merseyrail (National Rail)
Biennial Wayfinding Guide to Liverpool Biennial 2025, 2023 (Biennial Wayfinding Guide)
Moorfields Railway Station (Wikidata)