#Docklands Light Railway

[haxanbroker]

Pudding Mill Lane Station, East London, October 2024.

[aneverydaything]

Day 2238, 8 August 2024

Approaching Canary Wharf- the view from the front of a DLR train.

Despite riding the DLR (the Dockland Light Railway) in London around every other day, the overgrown kid in me still gets a thrill from sitting at the front of these driverless trains and pretending to drive. Obviously it being the Summer holidays, I had to elbow my way past several small children to enable me to sit in this prime position! 😉

[fourfourcyber]

Cisco Event @ Sunborn Yacht, Infosecurity Europe 2023, ExCel, London with DJ Phoebe D'Abo 21.06.2023

Cisco are a big player in the tech world. They are an American-based global company with over 70 000 employees. They rank 74 in the Fortune 100 and have an annual turnover in excess of $50 billion. In my Masterschool cybersecurity course that I’ve been doing since January, we regularly come across Cisco in many different aspects of the course. They primarily produce switches and routers which…

[djwezg]

Cisco Event @ Sunborn Yacht, Infosecurity Europe 2023, ExCel, London with DJ Phoebe D'Abo 21.06.2023

Cisco are a big player in the tech world. They are an American-based global company with over 70 000 employees. They rank 74 in the Fortune 100 and have an annual turnover in excess of $50 billion. In my Masterschool cybersecurity course that I’ve been doing since January, we regularly come across Cisco in many different aspects of the course. They primarily produce switches and routers which…

[everybody-votes]

Poll 6 - London Not-Underground

A part two to the Underground poll, enjoy!

As for the previous poll.... Look, I'm not saying there are wrong answers, but do better (Currently absolute monarchy and presidential republic are in the lead)

[surprisinglyokay]

Having recently read a fanfic in which Sherlock and John catch trains to various parts of southern England exclusively from London’s Waterloo station, even when this is not the usual/logical route, I’d like to share this for writers who might not be familiar with the whole business of trains in/to/from London.

Let’s start with the history of how and when rail services came to London. This article explains how and why we have so many terminal stations (short version: because when they were built, the railway companies were privately owned and all needed their own terminus in London).

The main terminal stations are Waterloo (south), Paddington (west), Euston (north-west), King’s Cross (north-east), St Pancras (East Midlands and Eurostar), Liverpool Street (east), Fenchurch Street (south-east) and Victoria (south). There are others (see the article linked above and my husband’s comment below).

As we know, within London and the suburbs, these termini are linked by the London Underground (aka The Tube) network. There is also the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) - a driverless system - and other overground rail services. Here is a map of it all from Transport of London (TfL). Baker Street is served by five tube lines: Bakerloo (brown), Metropolitan (maroon), Jubilee (silver), Circle (yellow), and Hammersmith & City (pink). It’s also only a five-minute walk from Marylebone (the nearest terminal) which itself is just behind the Landmark hotel, which we know as the exterior for The Restaurant Scene.

Aside: I think Sherlock is unlikely to catch a bus unless directly related to a case - they’re just too slow for him. But you can find bus maps and all kinds of other TfL mappy delights here.

If you have characters using public transport in the UK, your best bets for accurate research are:

Google Maps (in public transport mode)

National Rail (see the page footer for all the useful stuff)

Transport for London

All these also have apps available.

I’m happy to do Sherlockian Britpicking (my day job is copy-editing) if that’s helpful for you.

If you want to go the full Howard Shilcott, I still very much enjoy reading the rail enthusiasts’ forums posts about the myriad tube-related continuity errors in TEH. I’ll let you Google those for yourself. 😉

———

Ran this past my husband (who is totally the full Howard Shilcott) and he made a few corrections (and a lot of faces!) before I posted: he wishes it to be known that he ‘remains unhappy about [my summary of] Fenchurch Street’ and thinks I should add Charing Cross to the list so people know how to get to Kent. So that’s all clear then. 😂

[greatwesternrailway]

my favourite tube station name isn’t rude at all, it’s pudding mill lane, i just think it sounds nice. technically it’s not the tube it’s the docklands light railway but that’s my #1 favourite line anyway. it’s not my favourite station, it’s not really that interesting, but the name is good. my favourite station is probably baker street because i’m not immune to sherlock holmes stuff.

[michellemisfit]

It’s Tag Game Tuesday tiiiiime 🙌

Thank you Macy for creating this fun for us all! Thanks for the tag @celestialmickey @energievie @deedala @lingy910y @juliakayyy

Name: Michelle

When is your birthday? 1st March

Favourite social media platform outside of tumblr? These days? Gosh, I guess Instagram, even though I always forget it exists, because everything else has gone to the dogs. And I guess Facebook which I basically just use as a photo album for myself.

Do you wear make up? The basic foundation/contour/concealer stuff bores me. And I can’t wear lipstick. But I have fun with eye shadow. This isn’t going out make up, by the by. I farm in this lol

Favourite board game? I love Scrabble and Taboo. Ruth and I clean up at Taboo!!

Do you have any tattoos? Yeah. Loads. Many of them dragons.

Which of the seven deadly sins would you say you struggle with the most? Gluttony? I’m like the most susceptible human being. You could say I'm a Level 7 susceptible! So like… someone mentions the word pizza and I immediately want pizza. Or someone on TV eats a piece of chocolate and I want chocolate right that minute. Every time I watch The Bear I’ve had this unbelievable craving for doughnuts. I don’t even like doughnuts!! But it just won’t go away until I buy one, have a bite or two, and go ‘Oh yeah, I don’t really like this…’ ::facepalm::

Best vacation you’ve ever been on? I loved loved loved the two week @f-f-podcast Arthurian road trip through Wales. That was amazing!!

How do you get around town? Bus & Tube mostly. Sometimes train. Sometimes Docklands Light Railway. But all around… public transport.

Describe your vibe in three words: Resourceful. Funny. Approachable.

Swiss Magpie Fairy

Share a song rec:

That was fun! If you fancy playing I would like to tag @mikhailoisbaby @whatthebodygraspsnot @vintagelacerosette @crossmydna @captainjowl @creepkinginc @rereadanon @too-schoolforcool @tsuga-of-mars @thepupperino @harrowhark-a-vagrant @ian-galagher @palepinkgoat @hellofavillain @faejilly @look-i-love-u @rainbowbri @callivich @francesrose3

[stephensmithuk]

The Bruce-Partington Plans

Published in 1908, this is one from the His Last Bow collection. The international context i.e. the growing tensions with Germany, should be borne in mind when reading this.

This is the second and final appearance of Mycroft Holmes in the canon.

This is our third Violet! ACD likes the name, clearly.

This video shows the development of the Underground over time. The 1894 map does not include some of the then "mainline" services, like the one going up to Epping and Ongar, that would be incorporated into the network later on.

The Woolwich Arsenal was a massive munitions factory and research site located on the south bank of the Thames. It peaked in size during the First World War and then declined after that. It ceased being a factory in 1967 and stopped being a military site in 1994. Much of the site has been redeveloped - the Eastern half becoming Thamesmead - or repurposed.

Both attempts at a museum on the site were short-lived, sadly.

Woolwich Arsenal station is today served by the Docklands Light Railway and Southeastern trains; the Elizabeth Line station at Woolwich is a 200m walk away.

The most notable cultural legacy of the site was its works football team. Originally called Dial Square on its 1886 foundation, it turned professional in 1891 (the first London club to do so) and eventually moved north of the river in 1913 due to financial difficulties. You may well be familiar with the club's current name - Arsenal.

Aldgate was one of the former gates of the London Wall and gave its name to the local area, but the gate is now completely gone.

Aldgate station is today the terminus of the Metropolitan Line served by the Circle Line; its platforms are under a glass canopy with gaps to allow for air to get in and smoke to get out. Pretty nice station, but not very convenient for anywhere major, as it's a bit of a walk to Fenchurch Street.

The London Underground is divided between sub-surface lines dug using a "cut-and-cover" methods (dig up street, build railway, put street back on top) with tunnel dimensions big enough for regular mainline trains and deep-level lines done by manually digging underground, with resulting smaller diameters.

A variety of "circle routes" operated on now-LU lines at the time operated by companies including the Great Western Railway. More info can be found here.

Train tickets at this time were generally small cardboard ones about the size of a thumb. You can find a history of London transport tickets here.

The Metropolitan Railway rolling stock at the time generally consisted of closed compartment carriages i.e. doors on each side with no link to other compartments. It was perfectly possible for a door not secured properly to come open and someone to fall out if leaning on it. The job of the guard and station staff would be to check all the doors were properly shut.

This also had safety implications for passengers, especially female ones late at night and women-only compartments existed because of this. The emergency alarm on British trains was fitted as a measure following the 1864 murder of Thomas Briggs, in such a compartment.

Closed compartment carriages remained present into the first-generation British Railways electric multiple unit designs. In 1988, a woman named Deborah Linsley was murdered in one, with an au pair being criticised at the inquest for not pulling the cord. Her murderer has never been caught. The remaining stock was withdrawn from late night service afterwards and marked with a red line on the carriage, shortly afterwards going entirely as sliding-door stock replace.

The Naval Estimates were basically the budget requests presented to Parliament for their approval, the Admiralty being its own department until 1964, when it merged with four other departments to become the Ministry of Defence.

The first attack by a submersible occurred in 1776 during the American War of Independence, with an attempt to attach explosives to a British ship by the American Sergeant Ezra Lee using a one-man vessel called Turtle. It and other attempts failed; the submarine's ultimate fate after the sloop carrying it was sunk is unknown.

The first successful sinking of a vessel by a submarine was in 1864, by the Confederate vessel H. L. Hunley on the USS Housatonic. The former was lost with all hands shortly afterwards. It was found in 1995, raised in 2000 and is now part of a museum.

Hugo Oberstein is mentioned in "The Second Stain", which chronologists generally put in 1888. The "vibes" putting it in the 1900s don't work in light of the ending of this story.

Various openings were built in the underground bit subsurface lines of the Underground for ventilation purposes; in fact a majority of the network is open-air. The deep-level lines relied on various ventilation shafts and air being pushed in the trains, with the result that many parts of the networks are today pretty warm in summer.

Gloucester Road station is today on the Circle, District and Piccadilly Lines, the last of these arriving in 1906 in two deep-level platforms. The most notable feature of the station is the disused platform with unusual temporary art installations on it.

Underground steam locomotives were fitted with condensing boilers to reduce steam emissions, but this did nothing to deal with the soot and conditions could be fairly unpleasant by any standards. The sub-surface lines would be gradually electrified from the 1900s; the deep levels had to be electric from the get-go.

Pierrot is a stock "sad clown" character from pantomime and comedic theatre. He still turns up in various guises today, including a notable turn in Cowboy Bebop.

The "certain gracious lady" who gives Sherlock Holmes the emerald tiepin is generally assumed to be Queen Victoria herself. She was reluctant to use Buckingham Palace following her husband's death in 1861 and conducted most of her official business out of Windsor Castle instead, becoming known as the "Widow of Windsor".

[haxanbroker]

Stratford station. East London, October 2024.

[aneverydaything]

Day 2215, 16 July 2024

From underneath

The bridge carrying the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) into Canary Wharf, London

[wongmsrailgallery]

Wednesday 16 October 2024 - N467 leads carriage set VN17 with BZN267, BZN265 and power van PH451 on the up at Middle Footscray. Plus 62 more new photos in the V/Line - Regional Rail Link, Melbourne suburban passenger information displays, Kinetic Melbourne, Metro Trains Melbourne trackwork, Transit Systems Victoria, Yarra Trams - Melbourne CBD and Docklands, Metro Trains Melbourne - Northern group, Road coaches, Vandals and scroats, Metro Tunnel intake substation, Pacific National Griffith freight, TramTracker across Melbourne, City Loop, Myki, SCT Logistics - light engine movements, Commercialising commuters, Melbourne rail replacement bus signage, Railway advertising and promotions, Sightseeing Tours Australia, Southern Cross Station and Failing rail infrastructure of Melbourne albums https://buff.ly/40pEkTS

[londoncityairportfromheathrow]

How to Get to London City Airport from Heathrow: A Complete Guide

Traveling from Heathrow to London City Airport can seem daunting, but with the right planning, it’s a smooth journey. Whether you're catching a connecting flight or heading directly to a business meeting, this guide will walk you through the best transportation options. Let's explore the routes, costs, and tips to ensure a hassle-free transfer between these two major London airports.

1. London Underground and Docklands Light Railway (DLR)

For budget-conscious travelers, the London Underground combined with the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) offers an economical route between Heathrow and London City Airport. Here's how:

Step 1: Take the Piccadilly Line from Heathrow to Green Park station.

Step 2: Change to the Jubilee Line and head towards Canning Town station.

Step 3: From Canning Town, take the DLR directly to London City Airport.

Duration: Approximately 90-100 minutes Cost: £6-10 (using an Oyster Card or contactless payment)

This option is ideal for travelers with light luggage and plenty of time, as it involves a few changes. However, it's a cost-effective way to travel between the two airports.

2. Heathrow Express and Tube

For a quicker alternative, you can take the Heathrow Express, followed by the Underground and DLR. Here’s the route:

Step 1: Take the Heathrow Express from Heathrow to Paddington Station (15 minutes).

Step 2: From Paddington, switch to the Bakerloo Line and travel to Baker Street.

Step 3: Change to the Jubilee Line at Baker Street and head to Canning Town.

Step 4: Finally, take the DLR from Canning Town to London City Airport.

Duration: Approximately 80-90 minutes Cost: £20-30 (Heathrow Express ticket + Tube fare)

This is a faster option, particularly if you're on a tight schedule, but it does come with a higher price tag.

3. Private Airport Transfers

For the ultimate convenience, a private airport transfer from Heathrow to London City Airport is a great option. This service provides door-to-door transportation, eliminating the hassle of navigating public transport and transferring between multiple lines. Companies offering airport transfers often use executive cars, ensuring comfort and reliability.

Duration: 60-80 minutes (depending on traffic) Cost: £70-100 (depending on vehicle type)

Private transfers are perfect for those who prioritize comfort, have heavy luggage, or are traveling with a group. Many services offer pre-booking, so you can ensure a smooth transfer upon arrival.

4. Taxi

Taking a taxi from Heathrow to London City Airport is another straightforward option, providing a direct route with no transfers. London black cabs are available at all Heathrow terminals, and the journey can be quick, especially if you're traveling outside peak hours.

Duration: 60-90 minutes (depending on traffic) Cost: £90-130 (depending on traffic and time of day)

While taxis are more expensive than public transport, they offer the convenience of door-to-door service without the need to plan your route. This option is perfect if you have tight schedules or heavy luggage.

5. National Express Coaches

National Express offers a convenient coach service between Heathrow and London. However, this option does not take you directly to London City Airport. You would need to transfer at London Victoria or Stratford and use public transport to complete the journey to London City Airport.

Duration: 100-120 minutes Cost: £10-15 (coach ticket + Tube fare)

This option is slower and less direct, but it's a good choice if you prefer the comfort of a coach and aren't in a rush.

6. Rideshare Services (Uber, Bolt, etc.)

Rideshare apps like Uber and Bolt are available at both Heathrow and London City Airport. They offer a flexible and cost-effective alternative to traditional taxis and private transfers. The benefit of using a rideshare service is that you can choose your pickup location, track the ride, and even split fares if you're traveling with companions.

Duration: 60-90 minutes (depending on traffic) Cost: £50-90 (depending on surge pricing)

Rideshares are convenient for solo travelers or small groups who prefer flexibility and affordability.

Final Thoughts

Getting from Heathrow to London City Airport doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you're looking for an economical journey, a speedy transfer, or a luxurious ride, there's an option to suit your needs. With this guide, you'll be well-equipped to make the best choice, ensuring a smooth transfer between London's airports.

By choosing the right mode of transport, your trip from Heathrow to London City Airport will be seamless, leaving you plenty of time to relax and prepare for your next flight.

[lavishchauffeurs]

Affordable Airport Transfer London City Airport: Budget-Friendly Travel Solutions

Traveling can be an exciting experience, but it often comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to transportation. London City Airport, located in the heart of the UK capital, is a convenient hub for travelers. However, the cost of getting to and from the airport can be a significant concern. In this blog, we will explore various affordable London City Airport transfer options, ensuring you have budget-friendly travel solutions without compromising on convenience or comfort.

Introduction to London City Airport

London City Airport is known for its proximity to the city center, making it a preferred choice for business travelers and tourists alike. Despite its central location, the cost of airport transfers can vary greatly. Understanding your options can help you save money while still enjoying a smooth journey.

Public Transportation: The Most Economical Choice

Docklands Light Railway (DLR)

The Docklands Light Railway (DLR) is one of the most affordable ways to travel from London City Airport. The DLR connects the airport to the rest of London's extensive public transport network. With frequent services, you can quickly reach key destinations like Canary Wharf, Stratford, and Bank. The DLR operates from early morning until late at night, ensuring you have flexible options regardless of your flight schedule.

Buses

London's bus network is another budget-friendly option for airport transfers. Several bus routes serve London City Airport, providing a cost-effective way to reach different parts of the city. While buses might take longer than trains, they offer a scenic route through London and can be a great way to start your trip.

London Underground

Although London City Airport does not have a direct connection to the London Underground, the nearby DLR stations link up with the Tube network. This connection allows you to access the extensive Underground system, providing another affordable and efficient transfer option.

Ridesharing and Shuttle Services

Uber and Other Ridesharing Apps

Ridesharing apps like Uber offer a convenient and moderately priced alternative to traditional taxis. By sharing your ride with other passengers heading in the same direction, you can significantly reduce costs. This option is particularly useful for solo travelers or small groups who want a balance between comfort and affordability.

Airport Shuttle Services

Several companies provide shuttle services specifically designed for airport transfers. These shuttles operate on a shared basis, picking up multiple passengers and dropping them off at various locations. While slightly more expensive than public transport, shuttle services offer door-to-door convenience at a fraction of the cost of a private taxi.

Budget-Friendly Private Transfers

Pre-Booked Minicabs

Pre-booking a minicab can be a cost-effective solution for London City Airport transfers. Many companies offer competitive rates, especially if you book in advance. Minicabs provide a personalized service, ensuring you travel directly to your destination without detours.

Ride-Hailing Services

Apart from Uber, other ride-hailing services like Bolt and Lyft also operate in London. These services often have competitive pricing and occasional promotions, making them a viable option for affordable airport transfers.

Cycling: An Eco-Friendly and Economical Option

For the environmentally conscious and those looking for a bit of exercise, cycling can be a fantastic option. London City Airport offers bike racks, allowing you to park your bicycle securely. With London's extensive cycle network, you can easily navigate to and from the airport while enjoying the city's sights.

Combining Transport Modes for Cost Savings

Multi-Modal Journeys

Sometimes, combining different modes of transport can offer the best balance between cost and convenience. For instance, you could take the DLR to a central location and then switch to a bus or a rideshare for the final leg of your journey. Planning your route using travel apps can help identify the most cost-effective combinations.

Travel Cards and Oyster Cards

Using a travel card or an Oyster card can further reduce the cost of your London City Airport transfer. These cards offer discounted fares on public transport and can be used across buses, trains, and the Underground. For visitors, the Visitor Oyster Card is a convenient option that offers additional discounts on attractions and dining.

Tips for Finding the Best Deals

Advance Booking

Booking your transfer in advance can often secure better rates. Many service providers offer discounts for early reservations, ensuring you get the best deal possible.

Comparison Websites

Utilizing comparison websites can help you find the most affordable transfer options. These platforms allow you to compare prices from various service providers, ensuring you get the best value for your money.

Off-Peak Travel

Traveling during off-peak hours can also result in cost savings. Many transport services offer lower fares during non-peak times, which can be beneficial if your travel schedule is flexible.

Conclusion

Finding an affordable London City Airport transfer doesn't have to be a daunting task. By exploring the various budget-friendly travel solutions outlined in this blog, you can ensure a smooth and economical journey. Whether you choose public transportation, ridesharing, or a combination of different modes, there are plenty of options to suit your needs and budget.

Remember, the key to a stress-free and cost-effective transfer is planning ahead. Consider your options, compare prices, and book in advance whenever possible. With a little preparation, you can enjoy a seamless transfer experience without breaking the bank.

Summary of Key Points

Public Transportation: Utilize the DLR, buses, and the London Underground for economical transfers.

Ridesharing and Shuttle Services: Opt for Uber, Bolt, or shuttle services for moderate prices and convenience.

Pre-Booked Minicabs: Book in advance for competitive rates and personalized service.

Cycling: Consider biking for an eco-friendly and low-cost option.

Multi-Modal Journeys: Combine different transport modes for the best balance of cost and convenience.

Travel Cards: Use Oyster or travel cards for discounted fares.

Advance Booking and Comparison Websites: Secure the best deals by booking early and using comparison tools.

By following these tips, you can make your London City Airport transfer as affordable and hassle-free as possible. Safe travels!

[golflounge]

Leisure Delights: Hamburg's Must-Experience Activities

Things to Do in Hamburg for Fun

With its centuries-old history and an active culture-life, there are numerous leisure activities to be discovered in Hamburg. Whether you are a born and bred local or interested in revisiting this city, there is something for everyone. We have the best leisure tips for you in Hamburg!

1. Experience Calmness at Planten un Blomen

Planten un Blomen is the ideal green escape from the hustle and insanity of life in a big city. Stroll the landscaped gardens, drift around in a paddleboat on the lake, or simply lie back under a tree with your book. Not to mention the double-starred water-light concerts on summer evenings, where even under 60 feet of water, fountains dance along to classical melodies with thousands of others.

2. Visit the Historical Speicherstadt

Explore the history of the past world, and you will be at the largest warehouse district listed for your visit. The new location, docklands & more pricey UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll along winding cobblestone streets bordered by red-brick warehouses and head to such quirky sights as the MiniaturWunderland, home to what's this world's biggest model railway. A perfect city to visit if you like history and modern places at the same time, mixed with some leisure in Hamburg.

3. Relaxation by the Water at Alster Lakes

Of all of Hamburg’s various leisure activities, its centerpiece must be the Alster Lakes (Binnenalster and Außenalster). Grab a paddleboat or kayak and cruise the calm waters, or go for an easy ride on the cycle route within the park around the lakes. Its natural beauty and remarkable sense of peace it offers make this place a perfect site for retreat and relaxation.

4. Enjoy Playing Golf at Golflounge Hamburg

Golflounge Hamburg is the right place to go for those of you who are just playing golf or want to try something new. An urban golf complex with attractions for beginners and those who want to improve their skills. Golflounge Hamburg - Experience a different golf experience... on high-tech driving ranges that are state of the art, during private lessons with professional coaches, and even when playing nighttime golf with views overlooking an illuminated city.

5. Enjoy Culinary Pleasures at Fischmarkt

No trip to Hamburg would be complete without an iconic Fischmarkt experience. Open on Sunday mornings, it's a hotbed for all food lovers. Local seafood, Thai fusion, or higher-tier international fare—whether you prefer to tuck into freshly caught local fish and resident delicacies or enjoy a more stylish evening dining at Michelin-starred recommended venues. Listen to live music and take in beautiful views of the Elbe River while reaching for hamburgers, ice cream, and drinks.

6. Take a Harbor Boat Tour

One of the busiest in Europe, no trip to Hamburg would be complete without visiting the so-called "gateway to Germany," famous for its huge harbor. Take a boat trip around the harbor and see what it is like to have this city behind your back. Sail by giant cargo ships, public landmarks, and the impressive Elbphilharmonie concert hall. The narrative and incredible views make this one of the best things to do in Hamburg.

7. Stroll Along the Elbstrand

Kick back along the Elbe River at a nearby sandy stretch, Elbstrand. Lounge on the beach, whet your appetite out by a swim where you can picnic with views of passing ships. This 3-mile beach seems to be well-known only among locals, as the Elbstrand serves as a quiet escape for many Hamburg residents contemplatively lying around in their swimsuits.

Conclusion

There is something for everyone, from the nature-loving to the history buff; and even those only interested in eating and sports are going to find what they’re looking for. In Hamburg, you can relax or seek adventure. Next time you are in the city, be sure to check out these must-do experiences and leave with vivid memories. The most important Leisure tip Hamburg: is time and enjoying the unique mixture of tradition and modernity that can only be experienced in this city. Happy exploring!