A Heathrow black cab to central London costs £55–85 — Uber or Bolt typically do the same run for £35–55. Here's the full 2026 tariff breakdown, why the meter shows three different rates, and how to spot an illegal minicab tout.
London black cabs (hackney carriages) are metered by Transport for London across three tariff bands — the most expensive applies on Christmas and New Year. In 2026, a Heathrow airport run costs £55–85 in a black cab, while Uber or Bolt typically undercut that by 40–60%. Here is exactly what you will pay for every option.
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The meter automatically switches tariff based on time of day and day of week. Tariff 1 applies during standard working hours Monday to Friday and is the cheapest. Tariff 2 kicks in during evenings, nights, and all day Saturday and Sunday. Tariff 3 is reserved for the Christmas and New Year period. You can see the active tariff displayed on the meter — if Tariff 2 or 3 is showing for a daytime weekday ride, ask the driver to correct it.
Black cab taxi ranks are located outside each Heathrow terminal in the arrivals area — follow the "Taxis" signs past the baggage reclaim exits. No booking is needed; you join the rank queue. Journey time to Central London is 45–75 minutes depending on traffic and your destination. The journey is roughly 24 km on Tariff 1, putting the metered fare in the £55–85 range before any extras.
The Elizabeth line (Crossrail) runs from Heathrow to Paddington in 15 minutes for £10.80–13.00 with an Oyster or contactless card — far cheaper than a taxi for solo travellers with manageable luggage.
Gatwick is 45 km south of Central London, making taxi fares steep. Licensed black cabs serve the airport but the metered fare can reach £90–130. Negotiate a fixed rate with the driver before departure — most will agree to £90–110 to avoid a meter running through variable traffic. The Gatwick Express train (£21.50 one-way) reaches London Victoria in 30 minutes and is the best value for solo travellers.
Since 2016, all London black cabs are required by TfL to accept contactless card payments. Tap your debit or credit card, or use Apple Pay or Google Pay on the in-cab reader. Cash is still accepted. There is no card surcharge — you pay exactly the metered amount. For Uber and Bolt, payment is taken in-app automatically at the end of the ride.
Unlicensed minicab touts operate around major stations and nightlife areas. It is illegal to take an unbooked minicab in London. Never get into a car that approaches you — always pre-book via a licensed app (Uber, Bolt, Addison Lee) or use a black cab at a rank.
All London black cabs display a licence plate beginning with numbers only (no letters) and a white "Licensed London Taxi" plate at the rear. The yellow TAXI sign on the roof illuminates when the cab is available.
How much should I tip a London black cab driver?
Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated. Rounding up to the nearest pound is the minimum gesture. For good service on a long journey, 10% is generous. Most payment terminals have a tip option.
Is it safe to take Uber in London?
Yes — Uber and Bolt are both licensed by Transport for London (TfL) and must meet the same safety standards as any private hire operator. All drivers are background-checked. Uber lost and then regained its TfL licence after improving safety procedures in 2021.
Can I hail an Uber on the street in London?
No — private hire vehicles including Uber must be pre-booked via the app. Only black cabs (hackney carriages) may be hailed on the street when the yellow TAXI sign is lit.
How much does a London black cab cost from Heathrow to the city centre?
Expect £55–85 during Tariff 1 (daytime weekdays) and £70–110 during evenings and weekends. Journey time is 45–75 minutes. The Elizabeth line costs £10.80–13.00 and takes 15 minutes to Paddington.
What is the difference between a black cab and a minicab in London?
Black cabs (hackney carriages) are licensed to pick up passengers on the street without a booking. Minicabs are private hire vehicles that must be pre-booked — they cannot legally pick up street fares. Uber, Bolt, and Addison Lee are all minicab operators.
Is there a taxi from Gatwick to London?
Yes — the taxi rank is at the South Terminal. Fares run £90–130 metered; negotiate a fixed rate of £90–110 before departure. The Gatwick Express train at £21.50 is faster (30 minutes) and far cheaper for solo travellers.
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