London is one of those cities where getting around can either be a breeze or a bit of a maze, depending on how well you plan. Trains and buses are great, of course, but there are times when nothing beats the comfort and convenience of a proper cab. Knowing how to book a cab in London is a skill that comes in handy more often than you might think.
If you’re not quite sure where to begin, don’t worry. This step-by-step guide will take you through the whole process, from spotting a black cab to booking a cab online in advance. Let’s make your London travel experience smooth and stress-free.
Step 1: Decide What Kind of Cab You Need
First things first, what type of cab are you after? In London, you’ve got two main choices: a traditional black cab or a private hire vehicle (often pre-booked minicabs). Both have their pros.
Black cabs are licensed, spacious, and easy to hail off the street. They’re especially handy if you’re in central London and want to flag something quickly. If you’ve ever wondered how to hail a cab in London, these are the ones to look for.
Private hire cars, on the other hand, usually need to be booked in advance. They might be a bit more affordable for longer journeys and are often used for airport transfers or planned trips. Deciding this upfront helps you move to the next step smoothly.
Step 2: Hailing a Black Cab on the Street
Let’s say you’re out and about and need a ride on the spot. Look for the iconic black cab with its yellow light on. If the lights are on, the cab is available.
Step near the kerb, stick your hand out confidently, and make eye contact with the driver. If they’re free, they’ll pull over for you. Easy as that. Remember, black cabs are licensed to pick up passengers without a booking, so there’s no need to phone ahead or use an app if you spot one on the street.
Step 3: Booking a Cab Online or by App
Sometimes, it’s easier to plan ahead, especially if it’s early morning, late at night, or you’re heading somewhere out of central London. This is where booking a cab online comes in handy.
Most cab companies have their own websites or mobile apps. All you have to do is enter your pick-up point, destination, preferred time, and contact details. Some apps even let you track your driver, choose vehicle types, or add special requests like a child seat or extra luggage space.
For people who are not too keen on waving down cabs in the rain or want to avoid the queues at the airport, online cab bookings give you control and peace of mind.
Step 4: Know the Fare Before You Go
One of the most common concerns when taking a cab in London is the cost. Thankfully, black cabs work on a regulated meter system, so you can see exactly how much you’re paying as the journey progresses. There’s a base fare when you get in, and then the price increases based on time and distance.
If you’re using a minicab or private hire service, the cost is usually set when you book, which gives you a clear idea of your London cab fare ahead of time. Keep in mind that prices may vary slightly depending on the time of day, traffic, or if there are extras like waiting time or luggage.
Tip: For airport trips or longer journeys, it’s often cheaper to pre-book a cab rather than hail one on the spot.
Step 5: Check the Credentials
Safety matters, especially in a big city like London. Whether you’re hailing or booking in advance, always make sure the cab is licensed.
Black cabs display their licence on the windscreen, and the driver will have a badge with a photo and ID number. For private hire cars, the vehicle should have a Transport for London sticker on the back window, and your booking confirmation should include the driver’s name and car registration.
This extra check only takes a few seconds, but it helps you travel with confidence.
Step 6: Make Use of Extras if You Need Them
Travelling with a group or carrying lots of bags? Some cab services offer add-ons like minibuses, larger vehicles, or child-friendly features. You can also request vehicles with wheelchair access or drivers who know multiple languages.
When you’re booking online or by phone, don’t hesitate to ask for these extras. It makes the journey more comfortable, especially if you’ve got special requirements.
Step 7: Pay Your Way
Most cab in London options now offer flexible payment. Black cabs legally must accept card payments, and nearly all private hire cars do as well. Of course, cash is still accepted, but contactless cards and mobile payments like Apple Pay are widely used.
When booking online, you can usually pay through the app or website. If you’re in a rush, it’s just another reason to pre-book so the payment is sorted ahead of time.
Step 8: Leave a Review or Save the Number
Had a great ride? Leave a positive review or save the driver’s contact if it’s a private hire company you’d use again. Good service deserves a shoutout and helps others know which firms are reliable.
Some drivers are real local legends, full of useful tips, routes, and interesting stories. You’ll often get more than just a lift.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it. Understanding how to book a cab in London doesn’t have to be complicated; it’s all about knowing what suits your needs.
From understanding your cab options to being clear on your London cab fare, being prepared will always make your journey smoother. A good cab ride is more than just getting from A to B. It’s about comfort, timing, safety, and feeling looked after.
Need a reliable and spacious ride to the airport? At Corker, we’ve got you covered. Our minibus airport transfer service is perfect for families, groups, or travellers with lots of luggage. Plus, we offer a professional airport meet and greet service that takes the stress out of navigating busy terminals. Book with Corker today. Reliable travel starts with us!