Line of the Week: Lansdale/Doylestown
June 14, 2021
This week, we'll be taking a closer look at the Lansdale/Doylestown Line. This Regional Rail line, formerly known as the R5, travels from Doylestown in Bucks County to Center City Philadelphia. It originates from a line that was opened on July 26, 1931, but it's gone through many changes since then.
Service to Bethlehem and the Lehigh Valley languished due to the post-World War II surge of the automobile as well as the opening of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Northeast Extension in 1957. Service north of Lansdale in the non-electrified territory was terminated by SEPTA on July 29, 1981. Trackage north of Quakertown was dismantled after the railbed was leased for use as the interim Saucon Rail Trail.
The Lansdale/Doylestown Line is the second-most popular Regional Rail Line in SEPTA. In 2019 - it had a daily weekday ridership of more than 15,000 commuters over the course of 77 daily trips. It travels over 35 miles, and connects 28 stations.
Looking to explore the local craft brewery scene in the Philadelphia region? There are many along the Lansdale/Doylestown Line - including Iron Hill Brewery, Lansdale Brewpub and Doylestown Brewing Company! Check out the full list here.
Now that Travel Wallet is available on Regional Rail, riding couldn't be easier! All you have to do is tap your SEPTA Key on the platform or turnstile validator at your boarding station. This opens your trip. Then sit back and enjoy your ride! When you exit, tap off at the platform or turnstile validator before you leave the station. This closes out the trip. Again, all you have to do is Tap, Ride, Tap! You can read about the most up-to-date fare information here! Not only that, but children under the age of 12 ride free when accompanied by a fare-paying adult! And if you've never ridden the Lansdale/Doylestown Line, check out this informative video here!
Before you leave the house, there are a few things you'll want to remember. Check to make sure you have your SEPTA Key card before you leave. Masks are still required on all SEPTA vehicles. This isn't just to keep you safe, it's to keep everyone who rides SEPTA safe! Ensure your mask is covering both your mouth and your nose. And remember - vehicle capacity limits on SEPTA vehicles are now lifted.
So whether you're headed to Doylestown, Center City, or anywhere in between - let SEPTA be your ride!
