The line had been authorised as the Oxford and Rugby Railway, but had been absorbed by the GWR prior to its opening on 2 September 1850. No station was originally planned at Somerton — the nearest station to the village was Heyford, three miles to the south.[3] The station at Aynho for Deddington was closer by rail, being about 2.5 miles (4 km) to the north, but the road journey was about 5 miles (8 km).
It was soon decided that Somerton needed a station. It was built south of the railway bridge in the village, and opened in 1855, being originally named Somerton.[3][4]
A station at Somerton (Somerset) was opened on 2 July 1906,[5][4] and to avoid confusion, the Oxfordshire station was renamed twice: first to Somerton Oxon also on 2 July 1906,[4] then to Fritwell & Somerton on 1 October 1907,[6][7] although the village of Fritwell is 2 miles (3 km) away.
The goods service was withdrawn on 4 May 1964,[8] and the passenger service ceased on 2 November 1964.[9][10][2]