Tool
Black cab fare estimator
London's black cab fares are regulated. The meter is the same whether you hail it on the street or book by phone. Tariff 1 covers most of the day; Tariff 2 is for late evenings and weekends; Tariff 3 is Christmas / New Year. The driver must give you a printed receipt.
TfL sets the fare scale; 2024/2025 reference figures used here. Re-confirm on TfL before relying on this for precise invoices.
What this solves
Most apps and quote systems will give a rough figure, but they often use a flat multiplier and miss waiting charges. A black cab fare depends on three things: how far, how long you're sitting still (traffic lights, queues), and which tariff applies. This tool combines all three.
How to read the result
- Tariff: which rate your trip falls under.
- Mileage: based on per-mile rate × miles.
- Waiting: charged at per-minute rate when stuck under 10 mph.
- Booking fee: extra £2–3 if pre-booked.
- Tip: not required; round up if you feel like it.
What it doesn't cover
- Long-distance fixed-fare tariffs (Heathrow–Centre, fixed prices are published by TfL).
- Wheelchair-accessible cab surcharge (rare).
- Congestion Charge (£15/day if entering central zone Mon–Sun 07:00–18:00) and ULEZ (£12.50/day for non-compliant) are NOT in the meter — paid by you separately via TfL Auto Pay.
FAQ
Why are black cabs more expensive than Uber?
Because Uber uses its own rates; cabs are licensed by TfL and the meter is fixed. Uber is often cheaper for airport runs but has surge at peak.
Is the tip included?
No — the meter shows the full fare. Rounding up to nearest £ is normal. Most drivers prefer a tip or not.
How many bags can a black cab take?
Two suitcases fit in the luggage area (it's not big). Three or more is uncommon. Drivers may decline if not all fits.
Does the meter charge extra for slow traffic?
Yes — under 10 mph or stopped (signals, traffic) is charged by minute as waiting time. This is why a 2-mile Heathrow run can cost £50–70 at rush hour.
Sources
- TfL — Black cab fare scale (published tariffs).
- TfL — Congestion Charge and ULEZ published 2024/2025 rates.