Let’s be honest. London is exciting, but figuring out how to get around without getting stung by surprise costs? That’s not so fun. Whether you’re commuting between meetings, heading to the airport, or just fancy avoiding the Tube during rush hour, understanding London taxi fares can save you time, money and stress. So, let’s break it down clearly, without the jargon.
Black Cabs vs Minicabs: What You Should Know First
Before we talk numbers, it’s important to know that London taxis come in two main types: black cabs and minicabs. Black cabs are the iconic ones you can flag down in the street or hop into from a taxi rank. They’re regulated, driven by licensed professionals who know every shortcut in the city, and yes – they have to pass ‘The Knowledge’, which is as intense as it sounds.
Minicabs, on the other hand, must be booked in advance. They’re typically cheaper on long-distance rides but aren’t metered, which means the fare is set by the company, not a taximeter.
If you’re new to the city or value peace of mind over a few saved pounds, black cabs are often the better shout. They’re dependable, and the prices are transparent.
How Much Does a Taxi Cost in London?
This is the big question, and luckily, London black cab fares are regulated by Transport for London. So you won’t get ripped off by a rogue meter.
Here’s how the pricing works:
- Minimum fare: £3.20
- Tariff 1 (Weekdays 5am–8pm): Around £6.20 per mile
- Tariff 2 (Evenings 8pm–10pm and weekends): Around £7 per mile
- Tariff 3 (Night 10pm–5am): Still £7 per mile, with minor rate changes after six miles
Once your journey goes over six miles, the price per mile increases slightly for Tariffs 1 and 2, and decreases a bit on Tariff 3. Your final fare is based on either distance or time whichever results in a higher charge. So yes, if you’re stuck in traffic, your fare creeps up.
Extra Charges to Keep in Mind
- Heathrow pickup: £2.80
- Phone booking fee: £2
- Public holidays like Christmas: £4 surcharge
- No luggage fee and no extra cost for passengers or card payments
All black cabs are wheelchair-accessible and legally required to accept card payments – although, pro tip: carry some cash just in case the machine has a moment.
Typical London Taxi Prices (Examples by Route)
These are estimated taxi prices in London based on real routes. Good to know if you’re budgeting your week or planning airport transfers.
| Route | Day Fare (Approx) | Night Fare (Approx) | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| King’s Cross to Canary Wharf | £47 | £53 | 40 mins |
| Camden Town to Buckingham Palace | £32 | £36 | 30 mins |
| Big Ben to Tower of London | £25 | £28 | 25 mins |
| Heathrow Airport to Central London | £120 | £145 | 45 mins |
| Heathrow to Gatwick | £130 | £130 | 50 mins |
| Heathrow to Kensington | £55 | £55 | 35 mins |
So, how much are taxis in London? The cost varies based on distance, traffic and time of day, but these examples give a good idea.
How to Get a Taxi in London
There are a few easy ways to grab a taxi in London:
- Flag one down if the yellow light is on
- Head to a taxi rank (found at stations, airports, shopping centres)
- Use TappAXI to pre-book quickly and avoid delays
At Heathrow, Gatwick or Luton airport, taxi ranks are clearly signposted outside arrivals. You’ll usually see a queue, but it moves fast. All airport taxis use a meter and accept cards. For guaranteed pick-up and fixed pricing, booking through TappAXI is your best option.
TappAXI: Your Go-To Taxi Service in London
Looking for a taxi service that’s simple, honest and always shows up on time? That’s where TappAXI comes in. Whether you need a Heathrow transfer, a quick city ride or an early morning minicab, TappAXI helps you book reliable rides in just a few taps.
With TappAXI, you get:
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Friendly, professional drivers
- Easy booking via app or web
- Flat-rate airport transfers
- 24/7 customer support
For frequent travellers, TappAXI removes the guesswork from getting around London. No surge pricing, no uncertainty – just smart, reliable transport when you need it most.
So… Are Taxis Expensive in London?
Let’s not sugar-coat it. Taxi costs in London are higher than in many other cities. But with that price, you get reliability, local driver knowledge, and safe, regulated service. If you’re sharing the ride or value door-to-door convenience, it can absolutely be worth it.
Minicabs might save you a bit on longer journeys, but they vary more in pricing and quality. And don’t forget – with a black cab, there’s no faff over unexpected charges.
Tips to Keep Costs Down (Without Compromising Comfort)
- Travel outside of peak hours if possible
- Know your tariffs and double-check the meter
- Use TappAXI to lock in your fare
- Share rides with colleagues or friends
- Pre-book your London airport taxi to skip queues and delays
Conclusion
Navigating London taxi fares doesn’t have to be confusing. With a bit of know-how and the right tools (hello, TappAXI), you can move around the city with ease and confidence. Whether you’re travelling for work, heading to the airport or just avoiding the busy Tube, understanding the taxi cost in London helps you stay in control and on budget.
So next time you’re about to Google “how much is a taxi in London?”, just remember: you’ve got options, and now, you’ve got the knowledge too.
