DLR

London Metro System

45 Stations
42.4 km
Est. 1987
38 Accessible

About the DLR

The Docklands Light Railway (DLR) is an automated, driverless light rail network that transformed east and south-east London following its opening in 1987. Running on elevated viaducts and through tunnels across 42.4 km, the DLR connects 45 stations across the Isle of Dogs, Greenwich, Stratford, London City Airport, Lewisham and Woolwich. The network played a pivotal role in the regeneration of the former Royal Docks and the development of Canary Wharf as London's second financial district. Its driverless technology, futuristic elevated track and views over the Docklands skyline make it unlike any other part of the London transport network.

History

The DLR opened on 31 August 1987, initially running between Tower Gateway and Island Gardens with just 15 stations using secondhand rolling stock. It was expanded rapidly through the 1990s and 2000s to reach Beckton, Lewisham, Woolwich Arsenal, Stratford International and London City Airport. The network played a crucial role in the 2012 Olympic Games, carrying millions of passengers to events in the Olympic Park and other east London venues. Further extensions to Thamesmead are planned.

Stations on this Line

38 stops along the route

StationInterchangeTerminal

Line Statistics

Total Stations45
Route Length42.4 km
Year Opened1987
Accessible Stations38

Travel Tips

  • 1The DLR has no driver - sit at the front for the best views of east London's skyline
  • 2At Bank the DLR connects to four Underground lines - a key interchange point
  • 3For London City Airport take the DLR to King George V - the station is inside the terminal
  • 4The DLR to Cutty Sark for Greenwich is a scenic journey over the Isle of Dogs - one of London's best views
  • 5At Stratford you can transfer to the Elizabeth line, Jubilee line, Central line and Overground

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about the DLR in London.

QIs the DLR driverless?

Yes - DLR trains are fully automated and run without a driver. A Passenger Service Agent may be on board to assist passengers and manage doors, but does not drive the train.

QWhere does the DLR go?

The DLR serves Stratford, Canary Wharf, Bank, London City Airport, Woolwich, Lewisham, Greenwich, Cutty Sark and many Docklands stations across 45 stops.

QWhen did the DLR open?

The DLR opened on 31 August 1987, initially running between Tower Gateway and Island Gardens.

QCan I use my Oyster card on the DLR?

Yes - Oyster card, contactless payment and TfL travelcards are all valid on the DLR. It uses the same fare zones as the Underground.

QHow do I get to London City Airport on the DLR?

Take the DLR to King George V station - the station is directly connected to London City Airport terminal. Journey time from Bank is about 20 minutes.

QWhat colour is the DLR on the tube map?

The DLR is shown in teal/turquoise on the London Underground and transport maps.

QDoes the DLR go to Heathrow?

No - the DLR serves London City Airport only, not Heathrow. For Heathrow, use the Piccadilly or Elizabeth line.

QIs the DLR step-free?

Yes - all DLR stations have step-free access. The DLR is one of the most accessible parts of the London transport network.