London Taxis

The black cab has been operating in London for over a hundred years and before that as horse drawn carriages. While the model has changed over the years to include a variety of different colours, the traditional black cab is still recognisable throughout the city of London.

In London all taxis are licensed by the Public Carriage Office and there are currently over 23,000 of these black cabs in London. In London, all drivers are required to pass a test known as ‘The Knowledge’ to show that they have an excellent knowledge of the London streets. This exam takes two years of study, and drivers must memorize around 25,000 streets near London, while learning the quickest way between different points. Drivers must also be intimate with the whereabouts of every theatre, hospital, station and hotel.

While travel by London taxi may not be the cheapest way around London, it remains one of the most comfortable and convenient. Given the drivers’ knowledge of the streets of London, it is also likely to be the fastest. If you can share a taxi with some friends, the cost may well be cheaper than the tube. So grab yourself a black cab and see London the old fashioned way!