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.
