Trams in London facts for kids

Did you know that London, a city famous for its red buses and underground trains, also has trams? Trams are like electric trains that run on tracks laid right in the street! London has had two different periods when trams were used: the first was from 1860 to 1952, and the second started in the year 2000. For nearly 50 years, between 1952 and 2000, there were no trams running in London at all.

A map showing the old London tram network before 1952.

A horse-drawn tram in London around 1890.

A modern Tramlink tram at East Croydon in 2004.

Trams in London: A Journey Through Time

Trams have a long and interesting history in London. They were once a very popular way to travel around the city. After a break, they made a big comeback!

The First Trams (1860-1952)

The very first trams in London started running in 1860. These early trams were pulled by horses! Imagine a horse pulling a tram full of people down the street. It must have been quite a sight.

Over time, technology improved. Electric trams, which were much faster and didn't need horses, began to appear. By the early 1900s, electric trams were common across London. They helped many people get to work, school, and other places.

However, after World War II, buses became more popular. They were seen as more flexible because they didn't need tracks. So, in 1952, the last of the original London trams stopped running. It was the end of an era for nearly 50 years.

Trams Return! (Since 2000)

After a long break, trams returned to London in the year 2000! This new system is called Tramlink. It mainly serves areas in South London, like Croydon, Wimbledon, Beckenham, and New Addington.

Tramlink is a modern and efficient way to travel. The trams are electric and quiet, offering a smooth ride. They help reduce traffic on the roads and are a more environmentally friendly way to get around. Many people use Tramlink every day for their journeys.

The return of trams shows how cities sometimes bring back older ideas with new technology. Trams are a great example of how public transport can adapt and improve over time.

Images for kids

• 

  The first electric tram crossing Kingston Bridge in 1906.

• 

  A modern Tramlink tram on Route 1 at East Croydon in 2013.