Tucked away on the picturesque Seaford to Brighton line at the edge of East Sussex, and next to Sunnyside Park, Bishopstone Station stands out as a striking piece of railway heritage with a compelling story. This isn’t just another stop on the map — it’s a unique architectural landmark and a testament to what passionate local volunteers can achieve.
A Station with a Story
Bishopstone Station opened in autumn 1938, built as part of the Southern Railway’s efforts to serve a planned housing development that never fully materialised due to the outbreak of World War II. Designed by James Robb Scott — an architect also responsible for Surbiton and Goring-by-Sea stations — the building blends late Art Deco and Modernist design with elegant glass, brick and concrete details. The station’s raised octagonal booking hall, lit from above, and its original glazed footbridge make it visually distinctive.
Perhaps the most unusual feature of Bishopstone Station is its World War II defences. In 1940, gun emplacements were carefully incorporated into the roof to protect against potential invasion across the nearby Ouse estuary and Seaford Bay. It remains the only railway station in the UK equipped with gun turrets, making it of national historical interest as well as architectural significance.
From Decline to Community Revival
Despite its grand design, the station saw quieter decades after mid-20th century changes. One of its platforms was downgraded to a single track in 1975, and passenger services continued without the larger station facilities falling into disuse. The east wing, once home to waiting rooms and a WH Smith kiosk, stood empty for many years.
In the early 1980s, a local shop known as Linda’s Stores operated from part of the station’s western side, but the entire building was vacated by around 2018 — and its condition began to deteriorate.
This is where the Friends of Bishopstone Station (FOBS) stepped in.
Friends of Bishopstone Station: Heritage Meets Community
Formed by local volunteers, including Chair Barbara Mine and Vice Chair Jim Stanford, the Friends of Bishopstone Station CIC launched a long-term mission to restore the historic station building and bring it back into use. Working with organisations such as Community Rail Network, Railway Heritage Trust, Southeast Community Rail Partnership, and support from GTR and Network Rail, the group secured a lease and funding to begin redevelopment.
A New Community Hub
The heart of this transformation is the Old Parcel Room Community Hub — a refurbished space created from the station’s former parcel office and ticketing area. This warm, open-plan room now hosts an array of classes, activities and social events: art and sewing classes, yoga and French lessons, and most importantly, “Meet Up Mondays”, welcoming locals for hot drinks, conversation and support in a friendly, inclusive space.
Another initiative, Man Space, provides dedicated social sessions for men in the community, encouraging connection and wellbeing over tea or coffee.
Growing Green Spaces
FOBS volunteers haven’t stopped at the building itself. A dedicated gardening team is beautifying the station’s exterior with planters, flowers and a “bee corridor” — turning neglected ground into vibrant gardens and wildflower beds that celebrate nature and support local pollinators.
Recognition and Future Plans
The efforts of the Friends of Bishopstone Station have not gone unnoticed. Barbara Mine was named a Coronation Champion for her outstanding volunteer service — an honour recognising the impact of the restoration project and its contribution to community life.
Friends of Bishopstone Station were also honoured the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, on the King’s birthday on 14th November 2025.
Looking ahead, FOBS has ambitious plans for further restoration phases, including refurbishing the east wing, restoring historic windows and enhancing the unused platform space. These goals aim not only to preserve the building’s heritage but also to ensure it remains a thriving hub for future generations.
Why Bishopstone Station Matters
More than a stop on the rails, Bishopstone Station is a symbol of heritage preserved through community effort. Its striking architecture, wartime history and evolving role as a vibrant meeting place illustrate how historic spaces can be reimagined to serve and enrich modern neighbourhoods.
Whether you’re a railway enthusiast, an architectural admirer, or just someone interested in community stories, Bishopstone’s tale reminds us that with dedication and collaboration, even neglected landmarks can be reborn — stronger and more meaningful than before.
In support of this ongoing work, Sunnyside Park will be donating £200 to the Friends of Bishopstone Station to help fund continued restoration and community activities.
This contribution reflects the shared belief that historic spaces matter — not just as reminders of the past, but as vibrant centres for present and future generations. With continued backing from local organisations and residents alike, Bishopstone Station’s story is far from finished.
For more information, or to follow the progress of the Friends of Bishopstoke Station, please click here.
