Could a North Devon station be crowned the most life-changing in Britain?

Could Barnstaple railway station, or one of its rural neighbours, be crowned Britain’s most life-changing station?

That’s the question being asked as the World Cup of Stations 2025 opens for nominations, giving passengers across the country a chance to shine a light on the stations that have had a lasting impact on their lives or communities.

Organised by the Rail Delivery Group, the competition is part of Railway 200, a year-long celebration marking two centuries since the birth of the modern railway.

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The theme this year focuses on stations that have played life-changing roles, whether through personal moments, community connections or cultural significance.

While Barnstaple is North Devon’s main station, others along the Tarka Line, such as Chapelton and Umberleigh, serve as vital lifelines for rural communities.

Organisers say any station could be in the running, if people come forward to share their stories.

Nominations are open now until 22 August at www.raildeliverygroup.com/WorldCupOfStations

Jacqueline Starr, Executive Chair and CEO of Rail Delivery Group, said: “The World Cup of Stations is celebrating the stations that have truly made a difference in people’s lives. Cromford Station is a great example - its place in British music history and its restoration by the local community shows how stations can become much more than transport hubs.

"As we mark 200 years of railway history, we want to hear the incredible stories behind the stations that continue to bring people and communities together.”

Once nominations close, a judging panel made up of historians, industry leaders and public figures will select 20 stations to go through to a public vote this October.

Could a North Devon station make the final cut? That’s down to the community to decide.