Category: London

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.

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

Booking a minicab in Harrow doesn’t need to be a hassle. Whether you’re heading to the airport, coming home from a night out, or planning a trip across London, Vale Cars makes it simple, affordable, and reliable. In fact, you can save up to 35% compared to other London minicab services – and that’s just the beginning.

Here’s a straightforward, user-friendly guide to help you book your ride with Vale Cars, an alternative to a taxi, with confidence.

Why Choose Vale Cars in Harrow?

Let’s start with the basics – why Vale Cars?

• Save Money: Enjoy up to 35% savings compared to typical minicab prices across London.
• Experience Matters: With over 500,000 successful trips, you’re in safe, experienced hands.
• 24/7 Support: Need to ask a question at 3 AM? Our friendly customer support team is available around the clock.

From last-minute rides to pre-scheduled airport pickups, we’ve got you covered.

Step-by-Step: Booking a Minicab with Vale Cars

✅ Step 1: Choose How You’d Like to Book

You’ve got two convenient options:

• By Phone: Call us on
  📞 0208 743-1881
• By Email:
  📧 info@vale-cars.com

Our lines and inbox are monitored 24/7, all year round – no waiting, no stress.

✅ Step 2: Share Your Travel Details

To ensure a smooth ride, we’ll need a few bits of information from you. Here’s a quick checklist:

• Passenger Name(s)
• Contact Phone Number
• Date & Time of Travel
• Flight Number (for airport pickups)
• Destination (including any stops)
• Number of Passengers
• Number of Luggage Items
• Type of Car Required
• Special Requirements (if any)
• How long after landing you’d like to be met (for airport pickups)

🚗 Need to book for someone else? No problem! Just let us know their name, phone number, and any instructions, especially for Meet & Greet services.

✅ Step 3: Pick Your Vehicle Type

Not all journeys are created equal, and neither are our vehicles. Choose the car that suits your trip best:

• Saloon Car: Up to 4 passengers + 2 suitcases
• MPV: Up to 4/5 passengers + 5/4 luggage
• 7 Seater: Up to 6/7 passengers + 7/6 luggage
• 8 Seater: Up to 7/8 passengers + 7/6 luggage

Whether it’s just you and a carry-on, or a family on a full-blown holiday, we’ve got the space.

✅ Step 4: Choose Your Airport Pickup Style

Booking an airport ride? You’ve got two pickup options:

• Express Pickup:
  Meet your driver in a designated car park level (includes 10 minutes free waiting time).
• Meet & Greet (£10 extra):
  The driver meets you inside the arrivals lounge with a name board – includes a 30 minutes waiting time. A great option if you’re meeting a guest or want that personal touch.

  Tip: If you’ve booked Meet & Greet for someone else, let us know whose name should go on the board and provide a contact number for smooth coordination.

 ✅ Step 5: Confirm Your Booking

Once you’ve provided your details, one of our friendly customer service agents will:

• Record all the information
• Confirm the booking with you instantly over the phone or by email
• Dispatch the right car based on your needs

You’re good to go!

At Vale Cars, we’ve built our reputation on reliability, value, and exceptional service. Whether you’re a Harrow local or just visiting the area, booking a minicab has never been easier or more affordable.

Need help? Just give us a shout.

📞 0208 743 1881
📧 info@vale-cars.com 

Travel smart. Travel with Harrow minicabs.

If you’ve ever tried getting around London, you’ll know the city offers more ways to travel than just the Tube or buses. Taxis are a popular choice—especially when you’re carrying bags, heading home late, or just not in the mood for public transport. But in London, not all taxis are created equal. You’ve probably heard of black cabs, Uber, and minicabs—but what exactly is the difference between them?

Let’s break it down so you know which option works best for you.

1. Black Cabs – The Classic London Icon

You can’t talk about London taxis without mentioning the famous black cab. These are the iconic Hackney carriages you’ll spot everywhere from Oxford Street to Heathrow. Driven by seasoned professionals who’ve passed The Knowledge—a legendary test that covers every street and shortcut in London—black cab drivers really do know the city inside and out.

How to get one:

You can hail a black cab directly on the street or find one at a designated taxi rank. They’re also available through apps like Gett or Free Now.

Pros:

• Can be hailed on the spot.
• All drivers are fully licensed and regulated.
• Wheelchair accessible.
• Can use bus lanes (great for traffic!).

Cons:

• Often more expensive than other options.
• Prices can rise significantly in heavy traffic or late at night.

2. Uber – The App-Based Option

Uber operates in London like it does in many other cities. Using your smartphone, you can book a ride in minutes, track your driver, and even split fares with friends. It’s popular for its convenience and usually cheaper fares.

How to get one:

You’ll need the Uber app. Just open it, enter your destination, and choose your ride type (UberX, Exec, etc.).

Pros:

• Often cheaper than black cabs.
• Clear pricing before you ride.
• Easy to book and pay through the app.

Cons:

• Drivers use sat-navs, so local knowledge can vary.
• Can’t be hailed on the street.
• Surge pricing applies during busy times.
• Uber has faced regulatory issues in London in the past, though it currently operates legally.

3. Minicabs – Pre-Booked Private Hire Cars

Minicabs aren’t quite as visible as black cabs or Uber drivers. They’re private hire vehicles that must be pre-booked through a licensed minicab operator. You can’t legally flag one down on the street.

These are often used for airport transfers or by locals who already know a reliable minicab firm.

How to get one:

You’ll need to call a local minicab office or book through an app or website. Popular options include Addison Lee or local minicab companies in your area.

Pros:

• Usually cheaper for longer journeys or airport runs.
• Set fares agreed in advance.
• Many offer larger vehicles or executive services.

Cons:

• Must be booked ahead—can’t be hailed.
• Quality and reliability vary between operators.
• Less regulated than black cabs (though still licensed by Transport for London).

So, Which Should You Choose?

It really depends on your needs:

• In a rush or want to hail on the spot? Go for a black cab.
• Looking for a cheaper ride via app? Uber is your friend.
• Planning ahead or need an airport pickup? A minicab is probably your best bet.

Each option has its place in the capital’s busy transport ecosystem, and knowing the difference can save you time, money, and stress.

London’s taxi scene might seem a bit complicated at first, but once you know the basics, it’s actually quite flexible. Whether you’re catching a late-night ride home, heading to a meeting, or just exploring the city, there’s a taxi option that fits the bill.

Next time you’re standing on a busy London street, you’ll know exactly what to look for—and how to travel smart.

Summer in the UK wouldn’t be complete without the buzz of music festivals. August is hands down one of the best months to catch live performances, soak up good vibes, and make unforgettable memories with friends. Whether you’re into reggae, country, house, rock, or something a bit more offbeat, there’s something going on almost every weekend.

And while the line-ups are sorted and the outfits are picked, there’s one thing you don’t want to leave to chance: how you’re getting there and, more importantly, how you’re getting home. That’s where we come in — your local minicab service, ready to handle the logistics while you focus on the fun.

Let’s take a look at what’s coming up this August:

Festivals on Our Doorstep (London)

If you’re staying close to home, there’s still plenty happening in and around London.

51st Festival (Copthall Playing Fields – August 2nd) is back with a full day of house, soul, garage, and disco across multiple stages. It’s a proper celebration of dance music culture. You’ll want to plan ahead with transport — roads around the venue get busy, and public transport late at night isn’t always ideal.

Also happening on August 3rd, T-Live Festival is another local event bringing together live performances in the city. Whether you’re heading there with friends or family, we can make the day run smoother by getting you to the venue comfortably and picking you up when you’re partied out.

If you’re into alternative rock, The Smashing Pumpkins are playing Gunnersbury Park on August 10th. Expect a crowd. Expect queues. But don’t expect to find a free Uber when the show finishes. Pre-book your minicab, and you won’t be left stranded.

Festivals Just Outside London

A bit of a drive, but totally worth the trip, Reggae Land Festival in Milton Keynes (Aug 2–3) delivers two days of sun-soaked vibes, great food, and all things reggae and dancehall. Grab your mates, bring your flags, and let the rhythm do its thing. We’re happy to help with both drop-offs and pick-ups — no need to navigate unfamiliar stations late at night.

Also nearby: Kent Country Music Festival in Canterbury (Aug 3) is ideal for country fans looking for a more laid-back day. It’s family-friendly, with music, food, and a countryside setting. If you’re heading out from London, booking a cab means not stressing about train times or car parking.

Worth the Trip: National Festivals

Further afield but drawing huge crowds:

• Boomtown Festival (Aug 6–10, Hampshire) – immersive, wild, and packed with creativity.
  
• Boardmasters (Aug 6–10, Newquay) – perfect mix of surf, sea, and music.
  
• Houghton Festival (Norfolk), Back 2 Festival (Nottingham), and Creation Fest (Plymouth) also run over that same weekend.

If you’re travelling in a group, our larger minicabs are ideal. We can get you to the festival gates and back home again safely, without the stress of connections or missed trains.

Going Even Further?

Some festivals this August are international, like Sziget Festival in Budapest (Aug 6–11). If you’re flying out, we’ve got your airport transfers covered. No dragging bags across the city, no worrying about train strikes — just smooth, reliable transport straight to the terminal.

Why a Minicab is the Festival Hack You Didn’t Know You Needed

Look — we get it. Festivals are about fun, not logistics. But the journey matters too. Whether it’s beating the post-show rush, avoiding last-minute price surges, or just having a stress-free ride home, a minicab can make your festival experience 10x better.

And let’s be honest — after a long day on your feet, dancing, singing, and probably queuing for toilets, the last thing you want is to fight your way onto a delayed train.

So, wherever you’re going this August — local or long-distance — let us take care of the ride. You handle the playlists. We’ll handle the roads.

Now that the summer holidays are upon us, many people will be planning how to plan journeys across London and beyond, such as how to get from Acton to Heathrow Airport. While the actual Acton to Heathrow journey time may not be that far – about 20 minutes by car or minicab – the logistics are still important to get right. 

The main choice is whether to go by public transport or road your own vehicle or minicab. There are several public transport options travelling from Acton to Heathrow Airport, including the Elizabeth and Piccadilly lines on the London Underground and bus services to all Heathrow terminals. However, these can take a lot longer than simply booking a minicab to take you there. 

Facts about Acton 

Acton is a suburb of west London, located about five miles from the centre in the Borough of Ealing. Its name dates back to Saxon times and means Oak Town. Attractions include the tranquil Acton Park and Gunnersby Park, as well as the fascinating Transport Museum Depot and Miniature Railway. Acton also has several popular pubs and restaurants, a vibrant market, and the W3 art gallery to explore. There are several great things to see and do locally before you head off to Heathrow Airport. In addition, these attractions will be waiting for you, ready to enjoy after returning home after a holiday or business trip abroad, via your minicab from Acton to Heathrow. 

Reasons to take a minicab from Acton to Heathrow Airport 

While the journey from Acton to Heathrow Airport may not be very lengthy, there are many reasons why taking a minicab is by far the best option. You can choose exactly when and where your driver will collect you, giving you greater flexibility and control over your journey’s timings. This can be from your home, office or alternative location. You can even ask the driver to stop and collect other members of your party on the way, if necessary, during your private hire Acton to Heathrow minicab journey. 

The same goes for your luggage. You can pack more bags, knowing that you can have them transferred from Acton to Heathrow Airport more easily in your own private minicab. Just remember to stay within the weight limits set by your airline for carry-on and hold luggage. Check the airline’s instructions for bulky or unusual items, too, such as buggies, musical instruments and sports equipment, even if they fit easily into your minicab from Acton to Heathrow Airport. 

Safe,stylish and private airport transfer to Heathrow 

As well as offering arguably the fastest way to Heathrow from Acton, booking a minicab also ensures you can enjoy a safe, secure and comfortable trip. You and your fellow passengers can sit back in comfort and watch the world go by from the window as your driver takes you to Heathrow in style. You can make phone calls, chat or make arrangements for your onward journey in total privacy. 

When your journey from Acton to Heathrow is over, you don’t have to worry about getting from the train or bus station to the terminal, nor where to park your own vehicle. Your private minicab will drop you at the entrance, ready for you to walk straight into the check-in area. If you have booked the return journey, your driver will make the arrangements with you about where to meet. This means they can drive you safely home again after your return flight has landed without any stress about where to meet up with them, or how to get back to Acton via public transport. 

Travelling to any London airport takes a fair amount of planning so that you can ensure you arrive in time to catch your flight. Gatwick airport transfers are no exception. While there are several options for getting to and from the airport, including trains or using your own vehicle, choosing a minicab for a private hire to Gatwick has many distinct advantages. Not least, the ability to eliminate a great deal of hassle from the trip. 

 Here are three important reasons why a London to Gatwick minicab can ensure a smooth, stress-free Gatwick transfer this summer. 

Stay in control 

When you book a minicab for your Gatwick airport transfers, you retain far more control over your journey than if you take pubic transport. You can be picked up at a precise location, such as your office or home, at the exact time you would like the minicab to arrive. You can even ask the driver to stop off on the way to collect another passenger, or to go a specified route as part of your Gatwick airport transfers. You will not be subjected to public transport delays that you cannot control or even, more often than not, prepare for in advance. 

 Another way in which you can stay in greater control of your Gatwick airport transfers by using a minicab is that you can decide how far in advance to book your minicab. As soon as you book your plane tickets, you can sort out the Gatwick airport transfers by picking up the phone or going online to book your Gatwick airport transport. This is especially helpful if you are travelling in a larger party and need to make sure that there is enough space in your chosen transport mode to take you all to the airport in one go, or at least in as few vehicles as possible. 

Keep costs down 

Another reason why a Gatwick airport taxi could be the best Gatwick airport transfer option is the matter of how much it costs. Using a Gatwick taxi service – and booking in advance – enables you to arrange a fixed price that will not increase, even if there are delays or the driver has to take a different route. You can carry multiple passengers with you in a Gatwick airport transfers minicab. However, you need to pay individually for each person when you take the train and there may even be extra charges for excess luggage. 

You can also save money on fuel and car parking charges if you undertake your Gatwick airport transfers by minicab instead of driving yourself there in your own car or vehicle. It saves on wear and tear on your own car and means that any road tolls, congestion charges etc. in zones that your journey passes through in and around central London are paid for by the minicab company as part of your fixed fee. 

Easy, reliable service 

Booking a minicab not only allows you access to the fastest way to Gatwick airport,it also combines safety, comfort and convenience. You can make sure that your minicab provides you with the best Gatwick transfer possible by giving the driver your flight details in advance. This will help them work out the best route and timings to get you there on time. 

Or, if collecting you from a flight, the information will enable them to make sure they arrive on time and are at the right terminal to meet you. You can also be dropped off at the most convenient entrance for your checking in desk and facilities. Gatwick airport transfers have never been easier!