London Taxis

Black Cabs

Complete your London experience by letting a black cab whisk you away to a romantic dinner – or simply take the weight off your feet after a day of hectic sightseeing and shopping! And, if you prefer something less traditional, the classic black cab also comes decorated in a dazzling palette of colours these days.

Black cabs can be hailed in the street or at designated ranks situated in prominent places, including many mainline rail, Tube and bus stations. They can also be booked by telephone.

If the yellow sign at the front is illuminated, the cab is available for hire. Black cabs are legally obliged to take on any job for journeys up to six miles (20 miles for cabs at the Heathrow Airport taxi ranks).

Fares and Tips

Fares are metered, with a minimum charge of £2.20. Black cabs are authorised to carry up to five people (six in the special metrocabs) plus luggage. There is no additional charge per extra passenger or item of luggage within these limits. You can tip taxi drivers up to 10 per cent but most people round up to the nearest pound.

Black Cab Accessibility

All black cabs are wheelchair accessible and most have a variety of additional aids for disabled travellers, including:

• Ramps
• Swivel seat
• Intermediate step
• Seat sight patches
• Large coloured grab handles
• Intercom
• Induction loop
• Free carriage of assistance dogs

Licensed Private Hire

Reputable, licensed minicab companies can offer a cheaper alternative to the black cab. While their fares are generally reasonable, the cars are unmetered, so it’s best to confirm the price – and consider negotiating the price – when booking.

You can book a minicab over the phone: hotels and hostels generally keep lists of reputable operators. You will also find minicab offices on most high streets.

All licensed private hire vehicles have the distinctive Transport for London licence disc in the front and rear windscreen. If in doubt, confirm that an operator is licensed by calling Transport for London on +44 (0)20 7222 1234.

Licensed Private Hire Vehicles Accessibility

Licensed private hire vehicles are generally saloon cars and you should check with the operator whether their vehicles meet your accessibility requirements.

Stay Safe

Unlicensed minicabs are illegal. You may be approached by unlicensed minicab drivers seeking passengers; avoid this as there have been a number of allegations of assault made against unlicensed cab drivers.

Useful Phone Numbers

• You can call one of 7,000 safe and reliable licensed black taxis by calling one number. No account needed - passengers simply pay with cash or by credit or debit card. Taxi One: +44 (0)871 871 8710
  
• Text HOME to 60835 (60TFL) for local licensed cab information from Cabwise. There is a charge of 35p plus your network charge for this service
  
• London Travel Information (24 hrs): +44 (0)20 7222 1234