London Taxi Fare Calculator – Black Cab Prices Explained

A typical London black cab fare costs around £2.40 per mile, plus a £3.80 base fare. Most journeys within central London cost between £10 and £30, depending on distance, traffic, and time of day.

London taxi fares are regulated and metered, which makes them predictable compared to ride-hailing apps. However, factors such as congestion, night rates, and waiting time can significantly affect the final price.

How London Taxi Fares Are Calculated

London black cabs use a regulated meter set by Transport for London (TfL). The fare is calculated based on a combination of distance and time.

Key components of a London taxi fare include:

• Base fare: £3.80 when the journey begins
• Distance charge: Approximately £2.40 per mile
• Waiting time: Charged when the taxi is stationary or moving slowly
• Tariff bands: Different rates apply depending on time and day

Because the meter runs continuously, heavy traffic can increase the cost even on short journeys.

London Taxi Fare Per Mile

On average, a London taxi costs around £2.40 per mile during daytime hours.
This rate increases at night and during certain peak periods.

As a general guide:

• Short trips (1–3 miles): £7–£15
• Medium trips (4–7 miles): £15–£30
• Longer trips (8+ miles): £30+

These are typical estimates. The exact fare always depends on traffic conditions and route taken.

What Increases a London Taxi Fare?

Several factors can push a London taxi fare higher than expected:

• Traffic congestion: The meter continues running while stationary
• Night rates: Night rates: Tariff 2 applies from 20:00, Tariff 3 from 22:00 — see below for exact rates
• Longer routes: Detours or slower roads increase distance and time
• Airport pickups: Terminal access roads add waiting time before the journey begins
• Public holidays: Certain dates use higher tariff bands

Understanding these factors helps explain why two similar journeys may cost different amounts.

Night Taxi Rates in London

London taxis operate on different tariff bands depending on the time of day.

In general:

• Daytime: Standard rates apply
• Tariff 2 (weekday evenings from 20:00, and weekends): approximately 20–25% above the standard daytime rate
• Tariff 3 (22:00–05:00 daily and public holidays): approximately 60% above the standard daytime rate

If you’re travelling late at night, expect your fare to be noticeably higher than a daytime journey of the same distance.

Taxi vs Uber Cost in London

When comparing black cabs with ride-hailing services such as Uber or Bolt, cost differences depend heavily on timing.

Typical differences include:

• London taxis: Metered, regulated, no surge pricing
• Uber / Bolt: Dynamic pricing, often cheaper off-peak
• Peak hours: Ride-hailing apps may surge above taxi prices
• Bus lanes: Black cabs can use bus lanes, saving time in traffic

For busy periods or short central journeys, a traditional London taxi can sometimes be better value.

London Black Cab Prices Explained

London black cab prices are based on regulated metered tariffs rather than fixed pricing, which means the final fare depends on both distance travelled and journey time. For many short central London trips, fares often fall between £10 and £20, while longer cross-city journeys may range from £25 to £50 or more, depending on traffic conditions and the route taken.

Travellers often search for terms such as black cab prices London, London black cab fares, or London black cab rates, but these generally refer to the same TfL-regulated pricing system used by licensed black taxis. Because fares are metered, congestion, waiting time, night tariffs and airport surcharges can all affect the final cost.

Is a London Taxi Worth It?

A London black cab is often worth the cost if you value:

• Door-to-door convenience
• Space for luggage
• Predictable pricing without surge
• Knowledgeable local drivers

For longer journeys or off-peak travel, public transport or ride-hailing apps may be cheaper, but taxis remain one of the most reliable options.

London Airport Taxi Fare Guides

Detailed fare guides for Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton and London City Airport, including typical costs, journey times and honest comparisons with public transport.