The line was part of the London and Croydon Railway which opened in 1839. The station was opened on 6 March 1871, although today's buildings are of a modern design: the platforms are only located on the outer, Slow lines, since the station is only served by London Overground trains between and or , local trains between London Bridge and Caterham and by the London Bridge to London Victoria loop line via Crystal Palace, plus some London Bridge to Guildford and in peak times.