If you are looking for a railway journey that punches well above its weight in history, character, and convenience, look no further than the newly christened Liberty line. Operated by Transport for London (TfL) as part of the London Overground network, this unique route is often described by locals with affection as “The Push and Pull.”
While it may be one of the shortest lines on the map—taking just nine minutes to travel from end to end—it serves as a vital artery in East London, connecting the bustling market town of Romford with the leafy, village-like charm of Upminster. Whether you are a railway enthusiast, a local commuter, or a visitor looking to explore the hidden corners of the capital, the Liberty line offers a swift and scenic hop across the borough of Havering.
What makes this route special
The Liberty line is a fascinating anomaly in London’s vast transport network. Unlike the sprawling commuter lines that rush headlong into the City, this is a dedicated shuttle service that operates on a single track for much of its journey. This gives it a distinct “light rail” or tram-like atmosphere, separating it from the heavy hustle of the mainline services it connects.
Its new name, the Liberty line, is not just a branding exercise; it is a nod to deep local history. It celebrates the “Royal Liberty of Havering,” a unique status granted in 1465 by King Edward IV that gave the area a high degree of independence and self-governance. Today, that spirit of independence lives on in this standalone line that faithfully shuttles passengers back and forth, independent of the main London traffic.
Recently upgraded, the line now hosts modern Class 710 trains. These “Walk-through” carriages come equipped with air-conditioning, USB charging points, and free Wi-Fi, ensuring your short hop is as comfortable as it is convenient.
A route breakdown of key locations
The journey may be short, but the contrast between the stops is striking. Here is what you can expect along the way:
Romford
Your journey likely begins (or ends) at Romford, a major hub in East London. Romford is famous for its historic market, one of the oldest in the country, which has been trading since 1247. The station here is a hive of activity, offering seamless connections to the Elizabeth line and Greater Anglia services. Before you board the Liberty line, take a moment to explore the town centre’s vibrant shopping scene or grab a coffee near the Market Place. It is the urban heartbeat of the route.
Emerson Park
Just a few minutes down the track, the train halts at the line’s only intermediate station. Emerson Park is the “quiet middle child” of the route. Situated in a prestigious residential area, this station offers a peaceful interlude between two busy town centres. It is a prime example of suburban London at its most tranquil. While there are fewer tourist attractions immediately outside the station, it serves as a great starting point for walks into the nearby Hornchurch Country Park or for admiring the grand architecture of the local housing.
Upminster
The southern terminus of the line brings you to Upminster. This town feels remarkably different from Romford, boasting a greener, more village-like aesthetic. Upminster is the end of the line for the District line, making it a crucial interchange. However, the real star here is the Upminster Windmill, a beautifully restored smock mill dating back to 1803, located just a short walk from the station. Upminster also offers a fine selection of independent cafes and traditional pubs, making it a perfect spot to conclude your mini-adventure.
When does the route run
One of the best features of the Liberty line is its reliability. As a dedicated shuttle, it is not usually subject to the delays that can cascade down from long-distance trains.
- Weekdays and Saturdays: The service typically runs from early morning (around 06:15) until late evening (around 22:00).
- Sundays: Services generally run from around 09:00 to 20:00.
Service frequency and connections
The Liberty line operates on a “turn-up-and-go” basis for most of the day. You can expect a train every 30 minutes in each direction. Because the journey time is only nine minutes, the single train on the line simply goes back and forth—hence the old nickname “The Push and Pull.”
- At Romford: Change for the Elizabeth line (for direct access to Central London, Canary Wharf, and Heathrow) and Greater Anglia services to Essex and East Anglia.
- At Upminster: Change for the London Underground District line or c2c services that run between Fenchurch Street and Southend-on-Sea.
Value for money
The entire Liberty line is situated within London Fare Zone 6. This means you can use your Oyster card, Contactless payment, or Travelcard just as you would on the Tube.
Because it is an orbital route (staying in Zone 6 rather than travelling into Zone 1), the fares are exceptionally low compared to driving or taking a taxi. If you already have a Zone 1-6 Travelcard, your travel on this line is included at no extra cost. For tourists, the price of a single off-peak journey is negligible, offering fantastic value for a quick connection between these two key towns.
Top tips for the journey
- Check the Timetable: Since the frequency is every 30 minutes, it is worth checking the TfL Go app or website before you arrive at the platform to avoid a 29-minute wait.
- Sit by the Window: The line cuts through residential back gardens and green corridors that are not visible from the road. It offers a unique “behind the scenes” view of suburban London.
- Use it as a Shortcut: If you are trying to get from the District line loop to the Elizabeth line, this is often much faster than travelling all the way into London and back out again.
Planning a day out on this route
Despite its short length, you can easily build a lovely half-day itinerary around the Liberty line:
- Morning: Start in Romford. Visit on a Wednesday, Friday, or Saturday to experience the historic Romford Market in full swing. Browse the stalls and soak up the lively East End atmosphere.
- Lunch: Hop on the Liberty line for a relaxing 9-minute glide to Upminster. Head to a local gastropub or cafe on St Mary’s Lane for lunch.
- Afternoon: Walk to the Upminster Windmill (check open days) or visit the Tithe Barn Museum of Nostalgia nearby. If the weather is fine, take a bus from Upminster to the Thames Chase Forest Centre for a walk in the woods.
- Evening: Catch the c2c train from Upminster down to the coast at Southend, or head back to Romford to jump on the Elizabeth line for a night out in Central London.
Year-round appeal
The Liberty line is a reliable workhorse throughout the year. In the summer, the air-conditioned Class 710 trains provide a cool escape from the heat. In the winter, the warm, bright carriages offer a cosy way to hop between the Christmas shopping hubs of Romford and the cosy pubs of Upminster.
Whether you are commuting, connecting, or just curious, the Liberty line is a small but proud part of London’s transport heritage—and well worth a ride.
