The London tramway system, commonly referred to as Tramlink, primarily serves the southern part of the city. This light rail/tram system is owned by Transport for London (TfL) and operated by FirstGroup.
When Croydon Tramlink, as it used to be referred to, commenced operations in May 2000, it signified the introduction of the first contemporary tram system in London since the original network ceased operations in 1952.
The latest and improved Tramlink route extends approximately 17 miles (28 km) and includes 39 stops along 3 main lines with a loop around Croydon town centre.
From Croydon there is a rail link to Gatwick Airport using Southern/First Capital Connect services.
The system uses two types of tram, the original Bombardier CR4000 Type and the Stadler Varia barn which started operation in 2012.
The tramway operates overlapping routes from Croydon to Wimbledon, Beckenham Junction, Elmers End and New Addington.
The system consists of 3 main lines:
1: Wimbledon to Elmers End
2: Wimbledon to Beckenham Junction
3: New Addington to Wimbledon via Croydon
Official Tfl London Tram Service Map
Wimbledon is a bustling interchange station located in travel zone 3, roughly 7 miles from the central London. It acts as a hub for both the London Underground and National Rail services. From here, you can board trains to London Waterloo, Weymouth, Southampton, and transport links to other destinations such as Hampton Court Palace.
East Croydon station is a major transport hub serving key destinations in London including London Bridge and London Victoria, furthermore, it has transport links to the south of England including Gatwick Airport, Portsmouth Harbour and Brighton.
Primarily serving Southeastern trains to London Victoria, London Bridge and Brixton.
Trams run about every 5-8 minutes during peak times, although services are a bit less frequent in the early mornings and late evenings.
Operating hours
Weekdays: 05:30am to 12:00pm
Saturday: 06:00 to 12:00pm
Sunday: 07:00 – 12:00 pm
All Tramlink fares are cashless. You can make payments using a contactless payment card or device, an Oyster Card, or by purchasing a zone 1-6 travelcard.
Before you get on the tram, make sure to touch in on the yellow card reader usually located on the platform at the tram stop. Unlike other Tfl services, you don’t need to tap out when your journey is over.
Note: It is always best to use the same card or device for all journeys to ensure you are charged correctly.
When it comes to fares trams offer an affordable means of transport and are treated the same as the London bus network.
A flat rate of £1.75 gives you unlimited journeys, made within 1 hour of touching in if you pay using an Oyster card or contactless payment card.
Bus passes can be used for the entire bus and tram network, and furthermore, fares are not split into zones like those of the underground system.
Children under 10 along with 11 to 17 year olds with Zip Oyster photocards travel free on London trams.
Tram travel is free for wheelchair users.
For more information on tram fares visit Tfl Bus and tram fares.
Visit our Practical guide to London buses with fares & maps page for more information on using the iconic London red buses.
All London trams and tram stops offer step-free access.
Carriages are equipped with specific spaces for wheelchair users, including a conveniently located stop request button.
When disembarking from the tram, you’ll find that the doors have an opening button placed at a height that’s easy to reach.
Furthermore, trams offer priority seating for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and passengers travelling with young children.
The London Tramlink offers access to a variety of notable places of interest including parks and museums.
Route: Wimbledon to Croydon
Wimbledon
Morden Road / Phipps Bridge / Merton Park
Route: Croydon Loop
East Croydon
George Street / Church Street
Route: Croydon – New Addington
Lloyd Park
Coombe Lane
Route: Croydon – Beckenham Junction / Elmers End
Harrington Road
Beckenham Road / Beckenham Junction
Elmers End
Transport for London
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Transport for London
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