In a city where history hides in plain sight, the Dulwich toll road stands as one of London’s best-kept secrets and quirkiest relics. Nestled in South London, this 1.5-kilometer stretch of College Road is not just a thoroughfare—it’s a time machine. For a mere £1.20, you can roll through London’s last surviving toll road, complete with a charming wooden booth that feels like something out of Dickens.
From 18th-Century Paddocks to 21st-Century Contactless
The Dulwich toll road began life in 1789 when John Morgan, then Lord of the Manor of Penge, decided he needed a better route to access his lands. Fast forward to 1809, and the Dulwich Estate took over, ensuring that this peculiar slice of history remained part of London life. Over 200 years later, you’ll find it still standing strong—though thankfully, you’re no longer paying for “sheep or hogs per score,” as the original pricing list once outlined.
Today, the toll fee of £1.20 (free on Christmas Day!) buys you passage along this leafy route connecting the South Circular Road to Fountain Drive. And in a nod to the future, the booth accepts modern payment methods like contactless cards and Apple Pay.
Why Does It Exist?
In a bustling city like London, a toll road might sound archaic. But the Dulwich toll road has a modern purpose beyond its historical charm. By charging vehicles, it discourages heavy traffic and deters large goods vehicles, preserving the tranquility of the nearby Dulwich Village. Locals see it as a small price to pay for keeping their corner of London peaceful and green .
An Everyday Oddity
This isn’t just a road; it’s an experience. As you approach the quaint toll booth, (official name: College Road Toll Gate) you might spot a local resident ambling past with their dog or a curious driver trying to find the right change for what might be their first-ever toll payment in the capital. And yes, you read that right—Londoners, who are so used to congestion charges and Oyster cards, still encounter an actual toll road here.
Perhaps the most surprising fact is how this little booth has survived in a city that’s otherwise discarded its tollgates. While others were dismantled or relegated to history books, the Dulwich toll road has adapted, standing as a testament to both London’s heritage and its ability to embrace change.
How to Enjoy the Ride
Driving along the Dulwich toll road is as much about the journey as the destination. The route is framed by lush greenery, offering a rare moment of calm in one of the world’s busiest cities. And if you’re lucky enough to be there on Christmas Day, you’ll enjoy free passage—a little festive treat from the Dulwich Estate.
So next time you’re in South London, why not take a detour through history? Toss a coin—or tap your card—at the toll booth and imagine the generations of travelers who’ve passed before you. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, the Dulwich toll road is a delightful reminder that in London, even the roads have stories to tell.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for the original pricing list, which includes delightful entries like charges for mules and “beasts per score.” It’s a tiny glimpse into the road’s origins and a good chuckle for anyone who’s used to modern traffic signs .
In a city defined by its layers of history, the Dulwich toll road is more than just a quirky oddity—it’s a living piece of London’s past, quietly thriving in the present. And who knows? Maybe one day it’ll even make it onto your next history-themed pub quiz.
Hours of operation
The tollgate operates at the following times:
Monday to Friday 7am – 9.30pm
Saturday 8am – 6pm
Sundays & public holidays 9am – 5pm
Christmas Day – no charge
All other times, the road is free of charge to use.
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