Can you hail a London taxi?
Can you hail a London taxi? If you see that the light is on (you'll know if it is, it's a bright yellow light), then to hail the cab simply stand on the side of the pavement and extend your arm outward. There's no need to shout “taxi” and indeed, it's actually illegal to shout “taxi” whilst trying to hail a cab.
Can you drive a London taxi as a car?
Yes, you can buy a London taxi and keep it as a personal vehicle. However, you should ensure that you aren't misleading people into thinking the black cab is for hire – to do so, make sure the cab is modified so it's fit for private use.
Can a London taxi refuse a fare?
A taxi driver is obliged to accept passengers which fall within the taxi authorized area and are within 6 miles of the origination of the fare. A taxi driver can refuse a fare if the passenger looks drunk, sick or aggressive.
Why are London taxis tall?
Black Cabs and Bowler Hats One unique fact about the Hackney Cab is that dating back to their horse-drawn equivalents in the 17th century, they were required to be tall enough to fit a person wearing a bowler hat.
What is a London taxi car called?
A hackney or hackney carriage (also called a cab, black cab, hack or London taxi) is a carriage or car for hire.
Is it illegal to hail a taxi in the UK?
Since the time of Queen Anne, the humble Hackney carriage has attracted the most legislation, totaling over 37 Acts, many of which are still in force. One thing many passengers may not be aware of is it is actually illegal to hail a taxi cab in motion.
How do you pay for a black cab in London?
London black cab fares are metered, and the minimum charge is £3.20. Additional charges apply when you take a black cab from Heathrow, book by phone, and on Christmas Day and New Year's Eve. All black cabs accept payment by credit or debit card without a surcharge.
Do taxi drivers own their cars UK?
As a taxi and minicab driver working in the UK, you'll find it's much easier and more cost-effective to hire a vehicle from a reputable operator like Addison Lee, rather than use your own car as a private hire vehicle. Do taxi drivers and minicab drivers own their cabs? Not necessarily.
Can I flag down a taxi in London?
There are two kinds of taxis in the U.K. - taxis that you flag down (Hackney carriages), and taxis that you book in advance (private hire) - and that includes Uber. You are not allowed to flag down a private hire vehicle.
How do you call a black cab in London?
London Black Taxis +44 (0)20 3984 4515.
What does the roof light on a taxi mean?
Distinctive characteristics of taxis When the roof sign is illuminated, it means that the taxi is available for hire. When the taxi light is off, it means that the taxi is already picking up a customer or is not in operation.
Do I tip London taxi drivers?
Tipping taxi drivers It is polite to tip 10 to 15% of the taxi fare for black cabs and licensed minicabs in London. However, most people simply round up the fare to the nearest £1 and tell the driver to keep the change.
Is it rude to not tip in London?
Tipping is appreciated but not always appropriate in London. There are some situations where it is customary, for example in restaurants.
Are London taxis cash only?
Yes, you can hail a London black taxi in the street and pay the driver in cash at the end of your journey. Most cabs also accept credit and debit cards now.
Is it rude not to tip UK?
Unlike some countries you do not have to tip in the UK. However, there are some unsaid social rules about leaving a tip. For example, if you take a taxi it is normal practice to round up the fare to the nearest pound.