When it comes to getting around London, many visitors – and even locals – often wonder about the difference between a minicab and a taxi. Both provide convenient ways to travel, but there are important distinctions in how they operate, how you can book them, and the regulations they follow. Understanding these differences will help you choose the right service for your journey.
What is a Taxi in London?
In London, the term “taxi” generally refers to the famous black cab. These are licensed Hackney Carriages that can be hailed directly from the street or picked up at official taxi ranks.
Key features of London taxis:
- ✅ Licensed by Transport for London (TfL).
- ✅ Can be flagged down on the street without pre-booking.
- ✅ Drivers must complete The Knowledge – an extensive test of London’s streets, routes and landmarks.
- ✅ Wheelchair accessible and regulated to strict safety standards.
- ✅ Fares are metered and set by TfL.
What is a Minicab in London?
A minicab is a type of private hire vehicle (PHV). Unlike black cabs, minicabs cannot be hailed on the street – they must be pre-booked through a licensed private hire operator.
Key features of London minicabs:
- ✅ Must be pre-booked via phone, app, or website.
- ✅ Fares are agreed in advance with the operator or quoted when booking.
- ✅ Licensed and regulated by TfL as private hire vehicles.
- ✅ A wide variety of cars available, from standard saloons to executive vehicles and minibuses.
- ✅ Often cheaper than black cabs for longer journeys, airport transfers, or group travel.
Main Differences Between Minicabs and Taxis
| Feature | London Taxi (Black Cab) | London Minicab (Private Hire) |
|---|---|---|
| Booking | Can be hailed on the street or at taxi ranks | Must be pre-booked through an operator |
| Licensing | Hackney Carriage licence | Private Hire licence |
| Fares | Metered, set by TfL | Agreed in advance or operator-set |
| Drivers | Passed The Knowledge test | Licensed PHV driver (no Knowledge test) |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible by law | Varies depending on vehicle |
| Convenience | Immediate hire from the street | Usually cheaper for pre-arranged trips |
Which Should You Choose?
- 🚖 Choose a taxi if you’re in central London, need a quick journey, or prefer the convenience of hailing a cab on the spot.
- 🚗 Choose a minicab if you’re booking in advance for an airport transfer, event travel, or longer distance journeys – often more cost-effective and flexible.
Airport Transfers: Minicabs are the Smart Choice
For passengers travelling to or from London Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton or London City Airport, pre-booking a minicab offers reliability, comfort and competitive pricing. Minicabs are especially popular for group travel, with 5–8 seater minibuses and executive cars available.
That’s where DM Airport Transfers comes in. We provide a professional and reliable London minicab service covering all major airports, train stations, hotels, and events. Whether you’re travelling alone or in a group, our fleet includes saloons, minibuses and luxury vehicles to suit every need.
Book Your London Minicab Today
✅ 24/7 pre-booked minicab transfers
✅ Airport pickups with flight tracking
✅ Cars, minibuses & executive vehicles
✅ Competitive fixed prices
📞 Book Now: dmairporttransfers.co.uk
📧 [email protected]
📱 WhatsApp: +44 7947 199830
Final Thoughts
Both taxis and minicabs are safe, regulated and reliable in London – but the choice comes down to how you want to book and how much you want to spend. For planned journeys like airport transfers, minicabs are often the better value option, while black cabs remain the best choice for spontaneous travel in the city.
