SL12 at a glance
London has launched the new SL12 Superloop bus route on Saturday 5 September 2026, linking Gants Hill, Romford and Rainham. Journeys are free from 5 to 11 September.
Superloop buses stop at fewer places along the route. So if the SL12 covers a journey you make regularly, it could give you a simpler way across east London.
Where does the SL12 bus route go?
The main connections, heading towards Rainham, are:
| Stop or area | Useful for |
|---|---|
| Parham Drive | Starting point near Gants Hill, towards Rainham |
| Newbury Park Station | Central line |
| Barley Lane / King George Hospital | Walk to King George Hospital |
| Romford Station | Elizabeth line |
| Queen's Hospital | Hospital bus interchange |
| Elm Park Station | District line |
| Lamson Road | Rainham Station |
| Ferry Lane / Coldharbour Lane | Ferry Lane Industrial Estate |
One detail to watch: towards Rainham, board at Parham Drive. In the other direction, buses finish at Gants Hill Station / Cranbrook Road. Some stops also differ by direction.
See the full SL12 stop list and live arrivals before choosing your stop. TfL also lists the stops in each direction.
How does the SL12 free week work?
The offer runs from 05:30 on Saturday 5 September to 23:59 on Friday 11 September 2026.
Touch in as usual with a valid Oyster card, contactless card or device. The fare is £0.00. The offer covers the SL12 only, so don't assume a connecting bus or train is free too. These are the terms in TfL's launch announcement.
From 12 September, normal bus fares apply. The current adult fare is £1.75, with the Hopper fare covering further bus and tram journeys within one hour of your first touch-in when you use the same card or device. See TfL's bus fares for current prices and caps.
How often does the SL12 run?
Buses are scheduled every 12 minutes during Monday to Saturday daytimes, and every 15 minutes in the evenings and on Sundays.
Check the SL12 timetable for your stop's first and last buses, especially if you're travelling early or heading home late. Live arrivals are worth checking too, because an express bus can still get caught in traffic.
The new electric double deckers have air conditioning, information screens and charging points at the seats. A handy extra when your phone is running low.
Frequently asked questions
Does the SL12 stop inside both hospitals?
It serves the bus interchange at Queen's Hospital. For King George Hospital, get off at Barley Lane / King George Hospital on Eastern Avenue and walk from there.
Does the SL12 run all night?
No. It is a daytime and evening service, not a night bus. Check the last departure from your own stop before relying on it for the journey home.
Can I ride the whole Superloop circuit on the SL12?
No, the SL12 is a separate route between Gants Hill and Rainham. If you want the trip around outer London, see my guide to riding the Superloop circuit.
Details checked against TfL information on 5 September 2026. Fares and services can change. Check live arrivals before travelling.