black cab price calculator london

How London black cab pricing works

London black cabs use a regulated meter system rather than a fixed price per journey. Your final fare generally includes a starting charge (often called the flag fall), then increments based on distance travelled and time spent in slower traffic. This is why two trips of the same distance can have different totals.

A black cab price calculator for London is most useful when you know two things in advance: expected miles and likely travel time. If the roads are busy, time-based meter increments become more significant.

What this calculator includes

1) Metered fare estimate

The tool applies a simple metered model:

• Base fare: £3.80
• Per-mile amount based on selected tariff
• Per-minute amount to reflect waiting/slow traffic time

2) Common add-ons

You can optionally include charges that often affect total price:

• Heathrow pickup charge
• Phone/app booking fee
• Congestion Charge
• Any additional tolls or drop-off fees

3) Tip calculation

Tipping is optional, but many riders round up or add 5–15%. The calculator applies your selected tip percentage to the subtotal.

Typical tariff periods in London

Exact rules can change over time, but a practical guide is:

• Tariff 1: Weekday daytime (usually cheapest)
• Tariff 2: Evenings and weekends
• Tariff 3: Late night and certain public holidays (usually highest)

If you are planning an airport transfer or a trip home after a night out, choosing the right tariff can materially change your estimate.

Ways to reduce your black cab fare

• Travel outside peak traffic windows where possible.
• Share the ride with friends or colleagues.
• Avoid unnecessary waiting stops.
• Check if your route enters the Congestion Charge zone.
• Use the calculator before booking so there are no surprises.

Black cab vs fixed-price alternatives

Black cabs offer strong advantages: regulated drivers, accessibility, and the ability to hail on-street. However, for longer journeys, fixed-price minicabs can sometimes be cheaper. The best approach is to compare a metered estimate (like this one) against at least one fixed quote.

Quick FAQ

Is this an official TfL fare calculator?

No. This is an independent estimation tool designed for planning and budgeting.

Why is my real fare different?

Metered fares are sensitive to traffic flow, route choice, diversions, and exact tariff timing. Use the result as a realistic range, not an exact promise.

Can I use this for airport trips?

Yes. Enter your expected miles and duration, then add airport charges and any tolls. For Heathrow pickups, tick the pickup charge option.