London, the bustling capital of the United Kingdom, is renowned for its iconic black cabs. However, navigating the city’s intricate transport network doesn’t solely rely on these famous vehicles. From app-based services to traditional hailing and minicab options, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge to confidently book a taxi in London, no matter your preference.
Key Takeaways
- Black cabs can be hailed on the street, minicabs must be pre-booked
- Apps offer convenience but extra fees – compared to direct bookings
- Pre-book for airport transfers and if outside central London
- Know your route to estimate taxi fares
- Tipping your driver is customary at 10-15%
Why Take a London Taxi?
Taxis are one of the easiest and quickest ways to get around London. Black cabs are available throughout the city for door-to-door transport without needing to book in advance. Minicabs offer private hire rides often at lower prices but need booking beforehand.
Taxis are great for:
- Getting to the airport – Avoid hauling luggage on the Tube
- Exploring London – No waiting for buses or the Underground
- Travelling at night – Safer and faster than public transport
- Groups – More space for luggage and people than public transport
How Much Do Taxis Cost in London (Taxi Prices)?
Black cab fares start at £2.60 flagfall (starting fare), with additional charges per mile travelled and time spent in the cab. Expect to pay £30-70 for a ride between central London and Heathrow.
Minicabs are usually cheaper than black cabs, with quotes given before booking. Apps like Uber offer fixed prices upfront.
Tips are discretionary at 10-15%. Payments by card or cash. Avoid extra fees by booking directly instead of via taxi apps.
Hailing a Black Cab in London
Black cabs can be hailed on the street when the yellow “Taxi” sign is lit. Look for taxi ranks, particularly near big stations and airports. Stick your arm out to hail a passing black cab.
Black cabs must be licensed by Transport for London and undergo extensive “The Knowledge” training. All drivers can accept rides to any London destination.
Hailing works best in central London. Rides can’t be pre-booked. Cabs won’t stop if already occupied. Harder to find a black cab in outer boroughs.
Booking a Mini Cab in Advance
Minicabs are cheaper private hire vehicles that must be booked in advance. They don’t have meters and cannot be hailed on the street.
Ways to pre-book a minicab:
- Directly with a local minicab company by phone or website
- Using an app like Uber, Bolt or Ola
- Calling a central taxi booking line like Dial-a-Cab
Provide the pickup address and destination when booking. Get a quote upfront if booking directly. Pre-book if you need a ride outside central London.
Need a taxi in London? Make airport transfers easy with our guide: Getting Taxi in London.
Call a Taxi in London by Phone
Many black cab and minicab companies accept bookings by phone:
- Dial-a-Cab – 020 7253 5000
- Addison Lee – 020 7407 9000
- Local minicab firms
When calling:
- Specify pickup time and address, destination and number of passengers
- Get a quote for minicabs or a time estimate for black cabs
- Pay by card over the phone or cash to the driver
Good for airport transfers, rides for elderly/disabled passengers, or booking in quieter areas.
Using Taxi Apps in London (Book online)
Apps like Uber, Bolt and Gett let you e-hail and pay for black cabs and minicabs via your smartphone.
Benefits:
- Pre-agreed pricing
- No need for cash
- Track your driver’s arrival
Downsides:
- Surge pricing at busy times
- Additional booking fees
- Less accredited than black cabs
Link payment details once to book rides quickly. Don’t rely on apps outside central London.
Booking a taxi in London is easy once you know the options. Hail an iconic black cab for convenience or pre-book a minicab for affordability. With this guide, you’ll get around London in comfort and style.
Planning airport travel in the UK? Discover how to book your taxi service: Book Airport Taxi Service.
Q: How can I get a taxi in London?
A: To get a taxi in London, you can either hail a black cab on the street or book one in advance through a taxi company or online.
Q: What are the best ways to book a taxi in London?
A: The best ways to book a taxi in London are to either call a taxi company or book online. You can also use transportation apps that allow you to book a taxi with just a few taps on your smartphone.
Q: What are minicabs in London?
A: Minicabs in London are private hire vehicles that can be booked in advance. Unlike black cabs, minicabs are not allowed to pick up passengers on the street without a prior booking.
Q: How can I book a taxi in advance in London?
A: To book a taxi in advance in London, you can call a taxi company or use an online booking platform. Simply provide your pickup location, destination, and the time you need the taxi, and the company will arrange the booking for you.
Q: Can I book a taxi for airport transfers in London?
A: Yes, you can book a taxi for airport transfers in London. Many taxi companies offer specialized services for airport pickups and drop-offs, including transfers to and from major airports like Heathrow Airport and London City Airport.
Q: How do I identify a black cab in London?
A: Black cabs in London are iconic black vehicles that are easily recognizable. They have a lit “taxi” sign on the roof and a yellow “TAXI” sign on the front, and they often have a “For Hire” sign in the front window.
Q: Can I hail a black cab in London on the street?
A: Yes, you can hail a black cab in London on the street by simply sticking out your arm. If the taxi’s “taxi” sign is illuminated, it means the cab is available for hire.
Q: What is the price of a taxi in London?
A: The price of a taxi in London depends on various factors such as distance travelled, time of day, and any additional charges. Transport for London’s taxi fares are regulated, and there are also fixed rates for airport transfers.
Q: How can I find a list of taxi companies in London?
A: You can find a list of taxi companies in London by doing an online search or checking local directories. There are many reputable taxi companies operating in the city.
Q: Are there any taxi stands in London?
A: Yes, there are taxi stands in various locations throughout London. These designated spots allow you to easily find a taxi without having to hail one on the street.