North London line facts for kids
The North London line is a busy railway line in London, England. It's part of the London Overground network. This line travels in a big curve through the inner parts of north London, avoiding the very busy city centre. Both Network Rail and London Overground look after the line.
Contents
About the North London Line
The North London line connects different parts of London, from the south-west to the north-east. It's like a semicircle around the city. This line is very important for carrying both passengers and goods.
How the Line Started
The North London line began a long time ago as part of the North London Railway. Over the years, many changes have happened. Parts of the line have been joined together, some sections closed, and then reopened. The line you see today is the result of all these changes.
Powering the Trains
Trains on the North London line get their power in two ways. Some parts use a "third rail" system. This is a special rail next to the main tracks that carries electricity. Other parts use "overhead lines". These are electric wires high above the tracks. This mix of power systems is unusual for a single line.
Who Uses the Line
The North London line is a key route for freight trains, which carry goods across London. It's also used by London Overground trains. These trains carry passengers between Richmond and Stratford. The line is part of the larger National Rail network in the UK.
Between Richmond and Gunnersbury, the London Underground's District line trains share the tracks with London Overground services. This part of the line is also owned and looked after by Network Rail.
Images for kids
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Old vs new: a Class 313 and its replacement, a Class 378 Capitalstar at Richmond
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Map of the London Overground network, with the NLL connected to other lines
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Silverlink Metro 313117 at North Woolwich on 9 December 2006, the final day of service at that station
