London is a busy city, with iconic black cabs, red buses and bustling streets. If you’re about to travel around the city, you may be wondering about the different types of taxis. The short answer is yes, London has several types of taxis and private hire vehicles to suit different needs, budgets and travel preferences. Read on to learn more about the types of taxis in London and where to use them.
London Black Cabs
The most well known and traditional type of taxi in London is the black cab. Licensed and black cabs are the iconic taxis which can be hailed directly from the street or at taxi ranks. These taxis are driven by fully licensed drivers who have undergone and passed the city’s rigorous “Knowledge of London” exam to ensure they know the roads and the city inside out.
One of the major benefits of black cabs is flexibility. You can simply hail a cab from the street. They can also take you anywhere within the city without having to pre-book. Also, many people are attracted to the spacious interiors that can accommodate luggage or larger groups. Black cabs are metered, so the fare depends on the distance travelled and time of day.
Minicabs / Private Hire Vehicles
Minicabs can’t be hailed in the street, unlike black cabs. These are private hire vehicles that must be pre-booked online, through an app, or by phone. They are often cheaper than black cabs, especially for longer distances or airport trips.
Minicabs come in all shapes and sizes. You can choose a standard sedan or go for something more luxurious like an executive car or people carrier if you have a larger group. One of the advantages of minicabs is fixed-price fares, so you’ll know the cost of your trip before you start. This is great if you’re a tourist or a business traveler who doesn’t want to be caught out by the meter.
Ride-Hailing Apps
Ride-hailing apps such as Uber, Bolt, and Ola have grown in popularity in recent years. They function much like minicabs and are private hire vehicles but the added convenience of booking through an app makes them a popular choice. You can select the type of car you want, track your driver in real-time, and even pay automatically through the app.
Ride-hailing apps generally offer competitive pricing and are often more affordable than black cabs, while also being convenient. However, it’s important to remember that they are still private hire vehicles. So, they cannot legally pick up passengers from the street — all journeys must be booked through the app.
Accessible Taxis
London also offers accessible taxis for passengers with mobility impairments. Many black cabs are wheelchair accessible, and some minicab companies specialize in accessible vehicles. These taxis feature ramps, wheelchair space, and other amenities for the safety and comfort of passengers with disabilities.
Executive and Luxury Taxis
For a more luxurious ride, executive and luxury taxis are available in London. This service may include high-end sedans or SUVs with additional amenities like Wi-Fi and professional chauffeur service. Many minicab companies in London offer this option for corporate travel or special events.
Picking the Taxi That’s Right for You
The best taxi to take in London depends on your needs. If you need a taxi now and want to flag one down, take a black cab. If you have time to plan, want a set price, or have lots of luggage, a minicab or ride-hailing service will be cheaper. If you require accessible transport or want a fancy ride, there are services for that, too.
London’s taxi options are varied and each one is designed for specific situations. Weighing your options and picking the right one for you will save you time, money, and aggravation, helping make your travel across the city smooth and comfortable.