London black taxi fares
What a London taxi journey costs
A black taxi uses a meter. The displayed fare is based on the tariff, distance, time spent travelling slowly or stopped, and any permitted extras. This guide explains what to expect, but TfL's live fares page is the definitive source.
Check the current TfL taxi faresHow the meter works
The meter applies a higher tariff at busier or less common travel times. It also accounts for time, so a journey caught in heavy traffic can cost more than the same distance on clear roads. You can ask for an indication before setting off, but the meter gives the maximum fare payable unless you agree another fare before the journey begins.
The standard daytime tariff.
The evening and weekend tariff.
The overnight and holiday tariff.
Typical fare guide
These are TfL's published ranges effective from 25 April 2026. Journey times and fares can rise in congestion, so use them as a guide rather than a quote.
| Journey | Typical time | Daytime | Evening or weekend | Night or public holiday |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 mile | 6 to 13 min | £8.40 to £13.00 | £8.40 to £13.20 | £9.00 to £13.20 |
| 2 miles | 10 to 20 min | £12.60 to £20.20 | £13.40 to £20.40 | £13.60 to £20.40 |
| 4 miles | 16 to 30 min | £21.00 to £31.00 | £23.00 to £32.00 | £23.00 to £35.00 |
| 6 miles | 28 to 40 min | £33.00 to £42.00 | £41.00 to £45.00 | £41.00 to £45.00 |
| Heathrow to Central London | 30 to 60 min | £70.00 to £120.00 | £70.00 to £120.00 | £70.00 to £120.00 |
Extras to know about
- Booking by phone, app or online can add up to £2.
- A journey starting at a Heathrow taxi rank has a £1.60 extra.
- A terminal drop-off at Heathrow can add up to £6 each time the taxi enters a terminal drop-off zone.
- There is a £4 Christmas and New Year extra during TfL's specified holiday periods.
- Luggage, extra passengers and assistance dogs do not carry an extra charge.
Before you get in
- Licensed taxis can be hailed on the street or taken from an appointed rank. Look for the illuminated TAXI sign.
- Private-hire vehicles and minicabs must be booked through a licensed operator. Do not accept an unsolicited minicab journey.
- Within Greater London, a driver normally must accept a hiring up to 12 miles or one hour. At Heathrow, this extends to 20 miles.
- For travel beyond Greater London, agree a fare before setting off if you want price certainty.
Need help after a journey?
For property left in a black taxi, use TfL's Lost Property Office. For a private-hire journey, contact the operator that took the booking. Keep your receipt, card record or booking reference where possible.