London Black Cab Fare Estimator
Use this free calculator to estimate black cab taxi fares in London based on distance, travel time, pickup time, and common extras.
How this black cab taxi fares London calculator works
This calculator gives a practical estimate of what you might pay for a London black cab journey. It uses three core inputs: miles traveled, journey time, and pickup time. The pickup time matters because black cab fares operate with different tariff bands depending on the time of day and day of week.
Unlike flat-fare systems, black cabs use a meter that combines distance and time. When traffic slows, the time component can increase the final fare. That is why two trips with the same mileage can end up with different prices.
London black cab tariff bands (estimated model)
For this tool, tariff selection is automatic:
- Tariff 1: Weekdays, 05:00 to 20:00
- Tariff 2: Weekdays, 20:00 to 22:00 and weekends, 05:00 to 22:00
- Tariff 3: Night hours, 22:00 to 05:00, plus bank/public holidays
The calculator includes a meter start and variable rates for distance and time under each tariff. It also allows common extras so you can build a more realistic trip estimate.
What this estimate includes
- Metered fare estimate using distance + duration
- Time-based tariff logic
- Optional Heathrow rank surcharge
- Optional manual extras for tolls/parking
- A realistic estimated fare range
What this estimate does not include
- Unexpected diversions, road closures, or severe traffic incidents
- Changes to official TfL tariff schedules after this page was published
- Special one-off charges not entered in the form
Why fare estimates can vary in London
London traffic conditions can change quickly. The metered system means your fare responds to both movement and waiting time. During school runs, rain, rail disruptions, and event nights, average speeds often fall and fares can rise.
Trip timing also matters. A 6-mile journey at 2 PM on a Tuesday may cost noticeably less than the same route at 11 PM on a Saturday because it falls under a different tariff.
Tips for getting a better fare estimate before travel
- Use realistic journey time, not just map distance.
- Enter your exact pickup time to trigger the right tariff.
- Add expected extras, especially airport or toll-related charges.
- In central London, increase journey duration if you expect congestion.
- Allow a buffer for peak periods and bad weather.
Example use cases
1) Daytime weekday commute
If you are traveling 4 miles in about 20 minutes on a weekday afternoon, Tariff 1 usually applies. The estimate is often moderate and stable unless traffic is heavy.
2) Late-night trip home
A similar trip after 10 PM switches to Tariff 3, so the meter rises faster. For nightlife journeys, use accurate duration assumptions because waiting at lights and queues can add up.
3) Airport-origin journey
For trips starting at Heathrow rank, tick the Heathrow surcharge option. This improves forecast accuracy and reduces surprise costs.
Frequently asked questions
Is this an official TfL calculator?
No. This is an independent planning tool for quick, useful fare estimates.
Can I use this for business expense planning?
Yes. It is useful for budgeting and pre-trip planning, but always keep receipts for final reimbursable totals.
Is tipping included?
No. Tipping is optional and not included by default. If needed, add it into the extra charges field.
Final thoughts
If you regularly travel across London, a black cab taxi fares London calculator can save time and reduce uncertainty. Enter accurate distance and duration, check the tariff period, and include known extras for the best estimate. You will get a clear expected total before stepping into the cab.