22/11/2016
London, a bustling metropolis steeped in history and modernity, offers a unique and diverse public transport landscape. When it comes to getting around, two primary options stand out for their convenience and distinct character: the ubiquitous black cab and the increasingly popular private hire car. Whether you're a local resident or a first-time visitor, understanding the nuances of these services is key to a smooth and enjoyable journey through the capital's intricate streets.
While the image of a black cab instantly springs to mind when one thinks of London taxis, the private hire sector plays an equally vital role, offering flexibility and pre-booking options that cater to a wide array of travel needs. This guide will delve into both, providing practical advice on how to secure your ride, explore the fascinating history behind London's unique cab culture, and offer insights into what makes each option a valuable choice for navigating the city.
Booking a Private Hire Car in London
For those who prefer to plan their journeys in advance or require a guaranteed pick-up, private hire cars, often referred to as minicabs, are an excellent choice. Unlike black cabs, private hire vehicles cannot be hailed directly from the street. Instead, they must be pre-booked through a licensed operator. This pre-booking system ensures that your car is confirmed and ready for you at a specified time and location, offering peace of mind, especially for critical appointments or airport transfers.
Booking a private car in London is straightforward and has evolved significantly with technology. Many operators offer multiple booking channels to suit your preference:
- Telephone Booking: Traditional yet highly effective, a simple phone call can arrange your journey. For instance, you could easily book your journey by calling a service on a number like 020 8568 0022, speaking directly to an operator who can confirm details and provide an estimated fare.
- Mobile Applications: Numerous apps have revolutionised the private hire industry, allowing you to book, track your vehicle in real-time, and pay directly from your smartphone. These apps often provide fare estimates upfront, giving you clarity on costs before you commit.
- Online Booking Platforms: Many private hire companies have websites where you can input your journey details, get a quote, and confirm your booking. This is particularly useful for planning trips from a desktop or laptop.
When booking a private hire car, it's always advisable to confirm the pick-up time, location, and destination clearly. Many services offer different vehicle sizes to accommodate varying passenger numbers and luggage requirements, so be sure to specify your needs. The convenience of private hire lies in its ability to provide a tailored service, from executive cars for business travel to larger vehicles for group outings, all pre-arranged to fit your schedule.
The Iconic London Black Cab
The Hackney Carriage, affectionately known as the black cab, is more than just a mode of transport; it's a cultural icon of London. Recognised globally, these distinctive vehicles and their drivers, known for undertaking 'The Knowledge' – an intensive test of London's streets and landmarks – offer a unique and often immediate way to travel.
Getting a black cab in London is typically done by hailing one from the street when its 'For Hire' light is illuminated. You'll find them cruising busy roads, waiting at designated taxi ranks, or congregating at major transport hubs like train stations and airports. Popular locations where you can often find a black cab include areas around Russell Square, Temple Place, Chelsea Embankment, and Warwick Avenue, among many others across the city.
Black cabs are famed for their drivers' unparalleled knowledge of London's geography, allowing them to navigate the quickest routes, often bypassing traffic with an efficiency that GPS systems might miss. They are also legally obliged to take you to any destination within the Greater London area, provided it's reasonable. This makes them a reliable choice for spontaneous journeys or when you need a direct route without prior booking.
The Mysterious Green Cabmen's Shelters
Beyond the hustle and bustle of London's streets lies a fascinating, lesser-known aspect of black cab culture: the mysterious green wooden shelters. These Grade II-listed structures, often overlooked by passers-by, are an integral part of the black cab drivers' world, serving as a haven from the elements and a hub for camaraderie and cheap, hearty food. The story of these shelters is as intriguing as London itself, deeply rooted in the city's Victorian past.
A History Forged in Booze and Benevolence
The existence of these shelters can be traced back to 1875, born from a rather colourful necessity. In 19th-century Britain, horse-drawn carriage drivers, or 'cabbies', often sought refuge in pubs, leading to instances of drivers getting dangerously drunk on duty. Concerned by this, a newspaper owner, keen to ensure cabbies were sober and safe, established the Cabmen’s Shelter Fund. This charity was dedicated to funding shelters where drivers could get hot food and caffeine instead of alcohol, promoting sobriety and welfare.
Originally, dozens of these shelters dotted London, each precisely the length of a horse and cart, complete with a brass rail for horses to be tied. Today, only 13 of these vibrant green historical chunks of London remain. They are unique for their exclusivity: no one other than licensed cabbies is allowed inside, preserving their original purpose as a private sanctuary for drivers.
Despite their 'cabbies only' rule, these shelters offer a fascinating insight into London's transport heritage. Take, for instance, the Warwick Avenue shelter, run by dedicated individuals like Tracy Tucker. From the early hours, sausages and bacon sizzle on the grill, preparing for a steady stream of customers. While the public isn't permitted inside the main seating area, many shelters feature a small side hatch from which takeaway customers can be served – offering a glimpse, and taste, of their legendary fare. This side hatch often means members of the public can 'sneakily bag themselves some grub', as the prices are famously much cheaper than high street cafes.
Inside, it's a world of camaraderie. A U-shaped formica counter typically seats about ten cabbies, who enjoy what is arguably the cheapest and heartiest fry-up in London. Imagine a fried egg sandwich for just £1.70 or a cup of tea for a mere 70p! Regulars often have their own special football mugs, and the atmosphere is thick with banter, gossip, and the occasional political debate, usually about the government's handling of modern rivals like Uber. As one cabbie remarked, it's 'like a ladies’ powder room: it’s where we come for a gossip!'
Celebrities, Scandals, and Survival
These humble shelters have seen their share of famous faces and intriguing tales. The Warwick Avenue shelter, for example, has hosted figures like Victoria Wood for a BBC documentary and photographer Martin Parr. Even high-profile designers like Anya Hindmarch have hired out huts for private events, with Tracy Tucker serving fry-ups to guests including Tom Parker Bowles and a Vogue editor. Prince Charles himself has been known to stop into the Hanover Square shelter, showing his support for the fund.
Historically, the shelters were not just for cabbies. In the 1800s, nobles would pay cabbies to vacate the Pont Street shelter for their illicit rendezvous. The Piccadilly hut in the 1920s became known as 'The Junior Turf Club' due to aristocrats sneaking in booze for dinner. Even more sensationally, in 1888, the Westbourne Grove shelter nearly unmasked Jack the Ripper when a drunk stranger confessed to the killings, though cabbies at the time didn't take him seriously.
Despite their rich history and cultural significance, the Cabmen’s Shelter Fund, a charity, faces ongoing challenges. Donations are hard to come by, and local councils frequently try to remove taxi drivers' parking spaces, essential for the shelters' operation. The closure of the Embankment shelter due to parking issues highlights this struggle. Interestingly, while English companies are reluctant to offer support, American entities like Universal Studios in Florida have provided significant donations after creating replica huts for a Harry Potter attraction.
The future of these shelters, and indeed the black cab trade, remains a concern for those who run them. With fewer cabbies on the road, the lively atmosphere they foster could diminish. Yet, their enduring presence is a testament to London's unique spirit and its commitment to preserving a piece of its working-class heritage, constantly reminding us of the city's vibrant past.
Black Cabs vs. Private Hire: A Comparison
Choosing between a black cab and a private hire car depends on your specific needs. Here's a brief comparison to help you decide:
| Feature | Black Cab (Hackney Carriage) | Private Hire Car (Minicab) |
|---|---|---|
| How to Get One | Can be hailed from the street, found at ranks, or booked via app. | Must be pre-booked via phone, app, or online. Cannot be hailed. |
| Fare Structure | Metered fare, regulated by Transport for London. Can be more expensive for longer journeys. | Quoted fare agreed upon before the journey. Often more competitive for longer distances. |
| Availability | Readily available in central London, especially at busy times. | Depends on pre-booking; availability varies by operator. |
| Driver Knowledge | Drivers pass 'The Knowledge', extensive geographical expertise. | Drivers typically rely on GPS and navigation apps. |
| Accessibility | All black cabs are wheelchair accessible. | Accessibility varies; must be requested when booking. |
| Payment | Cash, card, or app payment. | Often cashless (app/card) or pre-paid. Cash payment possible with some operators. |
Frequently Asked Questions About London Taxis
Where can I book a private car in London?
You can book a private car in London through various channels. Many reputable private hire companies offer booking services via their dedicated mobile applications, through their websites, or by calling them directly. For instance, a service might invite you to 'Book your journey with us' and provide a phone number like 020 8568 0022. It's always advisable to use licensed operators to ensure safety and reliability.
Where can I get a cab in London?
London's black cabs can be easily found and hailed directly from the street if their 'For Hire' light is on. They also congregate at designated taxi ranks located at major transport hubs such as train stations (e.g., Waterloo, Paddington, King's Cross), airports (e.g., Heathrow, Gatwick), and popular tourist spots. You'll often see them in busy areas like Russell Square, Temple Place, Chelsea Embankment, and Warwick Avenue, which are also home to some of the famous cabmen's shelters.
What are Cabmen's Shelters?
Cabmen's Shelters are historic, small, green wooden huts found in various locations across London. Established in 1875 by the Cabmen’s Shelter Fund, a charity, they were created to provide a place for horse-drawn carriage drivers (and later motor cab drivers) to rest, socialise, and obtain hot food and non-alcoholic refreshments. They were intended to offer an alternative to pubs, promoting sobriety among drivers. Today, 13 of these Grade II-listed shelters remain, serving as exclusive havens for licensed black cab drivers.
Can the public enter Cabmen's Shelters?
Generally, no. Cabmen's Shelters are exclusive to licensed black cab drivers, who are the only ones permitted to enter and sit inside. This rule has been in place since their inception to maintain their purpose as a private sanctuary for cabbies. However, some shelters operate a side hatch from which members of the public can purchase takeaway food and drinks, offering a chance to sample their famous, affordable fare without entering the main premises.
How much does food cost at a Cabmen's Shelter?
The food at Cabmen's Shelters is renowned for being incredibly cheap and hearty. Prices are significantly lower than typical London cafes or restaurants. For example, a fried egg sandwich might cost as little as £1.70, and a cup of tea could be just 70p. These affordable prices are maintained thanks to the charitable status of the Cabmen’s Shelter Fund, which subsidises their operation, making them a true culinary gem for London's cabbies and, through the takeaway hatch, for a lucky few members of the public.
London's taxi landscape is a blend of rich history and modern convenience. Whether you opt for the iconic black cab with its knowledgeable driver or the pre-booked comfort of a private hire car, you're choosing a reliable way to experience the city. And for those curious about London's hidden gems, remember to keep an eye out for those distinctive green cabmen's shelters – a testament to the city's enduring character and the fascinating stories behind its transport heritage. They stand as a unique part of London's fabric, keeping the spirit of the cabbie community alive and well.
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