Our team at Liverpool Lime Street had a great time welcoming you into this city of culture for Eurovision Song Contest 2023.
It was a real historic event, with the UK hosting the international competition in Liverpool on behalf of last year’s winner Ukraine.
Tens of thousands of fans came to Liverpool to celebrate – and we’re proud to have played a part in helping you safely on your journeys.
Kyla Thomas, station manager at Liverpool Lime Street, said: “The city is absolutely buzzing … Liverpool City Council put on an amazing spectacle to welcome our Eurovision guests, and both Avanti West Coast and London Northwestern Railway got them here in true party style.”
Nicola Ryder, commercial partnerships manager at train operator Avanti West Coast, said: “Liverpool always guarantees a friendly welcome and it’s the home of so many great musicians over the years, making it the perfect venue to host this year’s event on behalf of the people of Ukraine.
“The atmosphere on the journey north was amazing and we have no doubt our guests will have a Eurovision to remember.”
Here’s a rundown of some of the ways we helped you join in:
Party atmosphere
Lime Street got into the swing of things with Eurovision decorations brightening up the station throughout the week – and plenty of entertainment for you.
We hope you enjoyed the party atmosphere and live music.
Super-fans
One hundred and seventy super-trouper fans arrived at Liverpool Lime Street station on two uniquely painted trains on Tuesday 9 May.
The Avanti West Coast Progress Train from London Euston and Eurovision 2023 branded London Northwestern Railway service from Birmingham New Street arrived into Lime Street station just after 2pm.
They were greeted in true party-style by drag queens, dancers, drummers and even roller-skating jellyfish at the station, organised by the Liverpool City Council in partnership with Network Rail.
This group of passengers are part of a specialist Eurovision fan club so it was a real delight to give them a huge and warm welcome.
Tales of Ukraine in Lime Street
This Soloveiko Songbird – nightingale in English – landed at Lime Street. Soloveiko is Ukraine’s national bird and a symbol of song and happiness.
This was among 12 installed across Liverpool to deliver songs and tales from Ukraine for the EuroFestival.
Best dressed
On Saturday 13 May, we handed out best-dressed medals to some lucky passengers travelling through Liverpool Lime Street as part of our festivities.
Designed by a station colleague, it was our way of injecting a bit more fun and cheer to your day.
Safe travel
We implemented a one-way system and a queueing system for some of the busier days. Measures like these are sometimes necessary when stations are particularly busy. They’re vital role to keeping everyone safe and moving along smoothly.
We also reminded you to think in threes – plan your journey, allow extra time and travel light.
Not just for Eurovision
We offer a Passenger Assist service for our older and disabled passengers all year round. Our friendly teams can help with helping passengers on and off trains, reserving wheelchair spaces and seats, giving you detailed journey plans, and lots more.
To book Passenger Assist for your next journey you can contact the train company you are starting your journey with, or check out the National Rail Enquiries assisted travel pages.