Docklands Light Railway Guide – the DLR London

What is the DLR in London?

The Docklands Light Railway (DLR) is a driverless train network that serves parts of east and south-east London and is connected to the London Tube network.

Why use the DLR

• Comfortable, fast train service connected to the Tube network.
• Simple ways to pay using an Oyster card or contactless payment.
• Easy access to parts of east and south-east London, including Stratford, Greenwich, Lewisham and the Docklands.
• Connections with the London Cable Car and London City Airport.
• Most of the DLR runs above ground, making it a great way to see the city while travelling!

How to use the DLR

• Simply tap your phone, Oyster or contactless card on the yellow card reader at the start of your journey when using the DLR.
• Find your DLR train platform – the train's direction is indicated on station signs, digital screens and on the front of the trains.
• Once onboard, listen for announcements identifying the next stop and any interchange opportunities.
• When it's time to exit the train, look for signs directing you to street level or connecting services.
• Don't forget to tap out when you exit the train or station!
• You can download the TfL Go app for live train times and to plan your journey.

Key routes and popular journeys

• East London: DLR routes serve the Docklands, Beckton, Stratford and London City Airport.
• South-east London: DLR routes serve Greenwich and Lewisham.
• Transport connections: The DLR connects with the London Cable Car at Royal Victoria.
• Popular interchanges: Bank (Central, Circle, District, Northern, Waterloo & City), Tower Gateway (Circle, District, Metropolitan), Stratford (Central, Jubilee, Elizabeth, Overground), Canary Wharf (Jubilee, Elizabeth), Canning Town (Jubilee).

DLR map

Plan your trip on the DLR with TfL's free, downloadable DLR map.

DLR opening and closing times

The first DLR trains start around 5.30am and end around 12.30am from Monday to Saturday. Sunday services start later and finish earlier, usually beginning around 7am and ending around 11.30pm.

For specific timings to help you plan your journey, check TfL's official DLR timetable.

Ticket prices

DLR tickets and DLR prices are the same as the Tube. You can pay for the DLR with a Visitor Oyster card, Oyster card or Travelcard, as well as contactless payment cards. Remember to both tap in and out.

For contactless payment cards issued outside the UK, check with your bank to see whether transaction fees or bank charges apply.

Is the DLR accessible?

All DLR stations have lift or ramp access to the platforms, with level access onto the trains.

Platforms are as level with trains as possible for easy access. The gap between the platform edge and the train is approximately 7.5cm wide, and the step from the platform to the train is approximately 5cm high. 

For more information, see TfL's information about transport accessibility and check out our guide to accessibility in London, including accessible attractions, accommodation and transport around the capital.

DLR v Tube

The DLR and London Underground (Tube) are both part of London’s transport network, but they serve different areas and operate differently.

Tips for first-time users

• Tap in on the yellow card reader when you start your journey and when you exit the train or station.
• Stand on the right when using escalators.
• Wait for passengers to leave the train before boarding.
• Stand behind the yellow line while waiting on the platform.
• Offer your seat to anyone who is unwell, elderly, pregnant or travelling with small children.
• Avoid travelling during rush hours (weekdays from 7am to 8.45am and 4.30pm to 6.45pm).
• Check the front of the train for the destination.
• Mind the gap when boarding or exiting the train!