The station opened on 3 August 1987. It is an unmanned station, connected to the MetroCentre mall by a covered footbridge. Initially called Gateshead MetroCentre, the station's name was shortened to MetroCentre from 17 May 1993.
Most train services are operated by Northern Rail; however the station is also served by First ScotRail, which operates a few daily services to Glasgow via Carlisle.
The station is covered by a Ditra Systems Public Address System (PA), voiced by Phil Sayer.