DSC01741 2
Tube Station History
Royal Victoria is a Docklands Light Railway station located in the Royal Docks area of East London, England. This station is situated between Custom House and Canning Town stations. The station is named after the nearby Victoria Dock, which was originally built in the 1850s and was once one of the largest docks in the world.
The Victoria Dock was an important part of London’s port and was used for the import and export of goods such as sugar, grain, wool, and rubber. The dock was also used for passenger ships traveling to and from the United States and Canada. However, with the advent of containerization in the 1960s, the dock became less important, and it closed in 1981.
After the closure of the Victoria Dock, the area was redeveloped as part of the wider Docklands regeneration scheme. The Docklands Light Railway was built in the 1980s to serve the area, and Royal Victoria station opened in 1994. The station provides access to a number of nearby attractions, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
One of the most popular attractions near the station is the ExCeL London exhibition centre. This massive venue hosts a wide range of events, including trade shows, conferences, and concerts. In addition to the main exhibition halls, ExCeL also has a number of restaurants, bars, and cafes, as well as a cinema and a number of hotels.
Another popular attraction near Royal Victoria station is the Emirates Air Line cable car. This cable car crosses the River Thames between the Greenwich Peninsula and the Royal Docks, providing spectacular views of the city. The journey takes around ten minutes, and there are both standard and VIP cabins available.
The Royal Docks themselves are also a popular destination for visitors to the area. The docks have been transformed into a water sports centre, with activities such as wakeboarding, kayaking, and paddleboarding available. There are also a number of cafes and restaurants in the area, as well as a floating hotel and a floating church.
For those interested in history, the nearby Museum of London Docklands is a must-visit attraction. This museum tells the story of the city’s docks and the people who worked there, from the Roman period to the present day. The museum has a number of permanent galleries, as well as temporary exhibitions.
Finally, Royal Victoria station is also a great starting point for exploring the wider East London area. The nearby Greenwich Peninsula is home to the O2 Arena, one of the largest entertainment venues in the world. The area is also home to the Greenwich Meridian Line, which marks the Prime Meridian of the world. Other nearby attractions include the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, the Tower of London, and the Museum of Childhood.
In conclusion, Royal Victoria station is a great destination for tourists and locals alike. The station provides access to a wide range of attractions, including the ExCeL London exhibition centre, the Emirates Air Line cable car, the Royal Docks, the Museum of London Docklands, and the wider East London area. Whether you’re interested in history, sport, or entertainment, there’s something for everyone near Royal Victoria station.