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If you’ve craved for a new travel experience and finally get to live it, you will know what it’s like to tell a story or two about places you love. As you might know, London is a favorite city for many. Transport is a big deal for tourists and Londoners and if an Undergound line goes down, so will the other means of travel, like the buses and other lines.
DLR train
The Docklands Light Railway (DLR) is similar to the Gatwick shuttle service. These driverless trains are ideal for family travel as well as commuting to and from work or for great days out.
When I found out that the trains were automated, my immediate reaction was to ask how safe they are. Is DLR really a safe way to get around? I’ve very rarely heard about delays on DLR compared to other transportation. Although this is arguable!
A DLR train approaching Depford bridge
After interviewing some commuters about their thoughts, I discovered that, in spite of being automated, they are efficient, fast and reliable.
Why was the DLR constructed in the first place?
There was a need for this transport system in the city so construction began and in 1987 DLR began operation. The Docklands area of East London was the ideal part of the city for this transportation, which was in need of redevelopment
A few stations served by DLR trains:
From the south to Lewisham
DLR Depford bridge station in South London
DLR Depford Bridge with a view of a Canal
West to Tower Gateway
Bank in the City of London financial district
East to Beckton, London City Airport
Stratford
DLR Stratford centre in East London
Woolwich Arsenal south of the river.
From the north to Stratford, which is ideal and quick for family days out to Stratford shopping Centre. It also links to some Tube stations like Waterloo and Canary Wharf and Greenwich which home to the O2 Arena where you will see the stunning view of London.
Benefits
Has it helped commuters and families.
The beauty of the DLR is that it runs frequently and connects with some mainline stations. Families and seniors will also enjoy the rides as Oyster cards and Freedom passes as well as debit cards are all accepted for convenience.
My next stop is to board a DLR train to Greenwich. Which stop are you getting off at? Would you travel by DLR? Do you prefer it to the Tube, Buses or trains?
Hello Boa. Thx for this review of the Docklands Light Railway. I find that the transportation options in London are excellent and this makes it even better.
London is fortunate to have the DLR as it takes the pressure off other transport systems.
I appreciated you including the map. If it was going to where I wanted to go, then yes, I would definitely use it. Looks like a great system!
It’s an efficient transport system.
Good read, Very informational and would be a help.
I’m glad you found this information useful.
I grew up in Lewisham and travelled via the DLR on a regular basis. I cannot recall there ever being any delays though the journey felt rather long at times. The carriage is lengthy so most passengers are able to find a seat.
This post definitely brought memories back to you.
I like the DLR trains. I got it from Bank to Canary wharf.
I do agree, it is very effective and prompt, every time I have used it.
I prefer it to the tube as it is spacious and less cramped.
I like the fact that the DLR is spacious.