Hackney Central Station, situated in East London, has a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century. Originally opened in 1850 as "Hackney," the station was part of the North London Railway, providing important connections across the city. In 1870, the station was relocated west of Mare Street and designed by architect Edwin Henry Horne. Over time, it changed hands from London and North Western Railway to London, Midland and Scottish Railway. Passenger services east of Dalston Junction ceased in 1944, leading to the station’s closure. The original building was later repurposed before British Rail reopened it in 1980 as Hackney Central.
In recent decades, Hackney Central Station has seen significant improvements to support growing passenger demand. A major upgrade in 2022 introduced a new entrance on Graham Road, easing congestion and improving accessibility. This £3 million project added modern facilities such as covered gates, ticket machines, and cycle storage. Sustainable features like a living roof and green wall were included, reflecting the area’s environmental focus. These enhancements ensure Hackney Central remains a key, modern transport hub in East London.