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🇬🇧 London Taxi Fare Calculator 2026
TfL-regulated black cab fares — Heathrow, Gatwick & 3 tariff levels explained
Black Cab
£3.20
Tariff 1
Per Mile
£2.20
Night
+20%
London Fare Rates (2026)
| Tariff | When | Per mile |
|---|---|---|
| Tariff 1 (standard) | Mon–Fri 6am–8pm | £2.20 |
| Tariff 2 (evening/weekend) | Mon–Fri 8pm–10pm, Sat–Sun 6am–10pm | £2.60 |
| Tariff 3 (night) | Every day 10pm–6am, public holidays | £2.90 |
Popular Routes
| Route | Dist | Black Cab | Uber X |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heathrow → Central London | ~15 mi | £55–£90 | £35–£55 |
| Victoria → Shoreditch | ~4 mi | £14–£20 | £9–£14 |
| Gatwick → Central London | ~28 mi | £90–£130 | £55–£80 |
| King's Cross → Camden | ~2 mi | £10–£15 | £7–£11 |
| London Bridge → Notting Hill | ~7 mi | £24–£34 | £16–£24 |
| Stansted Airport → Central London | ~35 mi | £100–£145 | £65–£95 |
💡 The Heathrow Express train reaches Paddington in 15 minutes for £25 — far faster than a black cab in traffic and often cheaper for solo travellers.
Money-saving tips
- Heathrow Express (£25, 15 min) or Elizabeth Line (£13, 45 min) both beat black cab fares into central London.
- Uber and Bolt are typically 30–40% cheaper than black cabs for the same journey outside peak surge times.
- Black cabs can be hailed on the street and know every shortcut — worth it for late-night safety or complex addresses.
- Avoid black cabs during Tariff 3 (10pm–6am) unless necessary — Uber/Bolt night pricing is usually more predictable.
- Contactless payment on the Tube/bus is capped daily — often cheaper than any taxi for multi-stop days.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a black cab from Heathrow to central London?
Approximately £55–£90 depending on traffic and exact destination (15 miles). Uber X typically costs £35–£55.
Approximately £55–£90 depending on traffic and exact destination (15 miles). Uber X typically costs £35–£55.
Are London black cabs metered?
Yes — all licensed black cabs use TfL-regulated meters with three tariff bands based on time of day and day of week.
Yes — all licensed black cabs use TfL-regulated meters with three tariff bands based on time of day and day of week.
Is Uber cheaper than a black cab in London?
Usually yes, by 25–40%, except during surge pricing at peak times or major events when black cabs can become the more predictable option.
Usually yes, by 25–40%, except during surge pricing at peak times or major events when black cabs can become the more predictable option.
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