General notes:
You only want a taxi when everyone else wants one.
Don't rely on their estimate of how long they will take to reach you.
Hackney Cabs
These are the black ones with rounded corners, like London cabs.
How can I get one?
You can pick one up at a taxi rank at St.Giles, Gloucester Green, or the railway station. You can also hail Hackney cabs in the street.
Fares:
A minimum of £2.00, then about £1 per mile
Sample Fares:
The city centre to any of the Park and Rides is about 3 miles and costs about £4
Heathrow - £60, terminal 4 - £65
Gatwick - £100
Central London - £100
Why choose a Hackney Cab?
Hackney Cabs are licensed and limited in numbers by the city council (the shortage is such that
licenses are reputed to change hands for £60,000 - £70,000). However they are also reputed to have a
generally better local knowledge than drivers of hire cars.
They are made specifically for their job and provide easier access for those with mobility difficulties.
Hire Cars
Hire cars (or minicabs) are not licensed individually (rather on a per company basis) and are normally not specialised vehicles.
They are not allowed to pick up passengers who hail them on the street.
You need to phone their HQ and they will send a vehicle for you. They are
often cheaper than a Hackney Cab.
