London Cab Fare Calculator
Tariff 1 (Mon-Fri 05:00-20:00)
Tariff 2 (Mon-Fri 20:00-22:00; Sat/Sun 05:00-22:00)
Tariff 3 (Every night 22:00-05:00)
e.g., airport surcharge, booking fee
Understanding London Cab Fares
Navigating London can be an exciting experience, and sometimes, a black cab is the most convenient way to get around. However, understanding how their fares are calculated can be a bit complex. Our London Cab Fare Calculator helps you estimate the cost of your journey based on key factors.
How London Cab Fares Are Calculated
London black cab fares are regulated by Transport for London (TfL) and are determined by a combination of distance, time, and the specific tariff in operation. Unlike ride-sharing apps, black cabs use a meter that calculates the fare based on these variables.
- Distance: The longer the journey, the higher the fare. The meter measures the distance travelled.
- Time: This is crucial, especially in London's often congested traffic. The meter also accounts for the time spent travelling, including waiting time or slow-moving traffic. This ensures drivers are compensated for their time even when not covering much distance.
- Tariff: This is perhaps the most significant factor influencing the base rate. London operates on different tariffs depending on the day of the week and time of day.
The Three Tariffs Explained
The calculator uses three main tariffs, each with different rates per mile and per minute:
- Tariff 1 (Daytime): This is the standard rate, typically applied from Monday to Friday, between 05:00 and 20:00. It's the cheapest of the three tariffs.
- Tariff 2 (Evening & Weekend): This tariff applies during evenings (Monday to Friday, 20:00 to 22:00) and most of the weekend (Saturday and Sunday, 05:00 to 22:00). Fares are slightly higher than Tariff 1.
- Tariff 3 (Night & Late Weekend): This is the highest tariff, in effect every night from 22:00 to 05:00, and also applies to late weekend hours (Saturday and Sunday, 22:00 to 05:00 the next day).
Minimum Fare and Additional Charges
Every black cab journey has a minimum fare, regardless of how short the trip is. Additionally, certain situations may incur extra charges:
- Minimum Fare: A base charge that applies to all journeys.
- Airport Surcharges: Journeys to or from Heathrow Airport may have an additional fee.
- Booking Fees: If you pre-book a cab, there might be a small booking charge.
- Christmas and New Year: Special higher rates often apply during these festive periods.
How to Use the Calculator
- Journey Distance: Enter the estimated distance of your trip in miles. You can use mapping services to get an approximate distance.
- Estimated Journey Time: Input the expected duration of your journey in minutes. Remember to factor in potential traffic.
- Select Tariff: Choose the tariff that corresponds to the day and time you plan to travel.
- Additional Charges: If you anticipate any extra fees (e.g., airport surcharge), enter them here.
- Calculate Fare: Click the button to get an estimated fare for your London cab journey.
Realistic Examples
Let's look at some typical scenarios:
- Example 1: Short Daytime Trip
- Distance: 2 miles
- Time: 10 minutes
- Tariff: Tariff 1 (Daytime)
- Additional Charges: £0
- Estimated Fare: Approximately £10.90 – £12.00
- Example 2: Medium Evening Trip
- Distance: 5 miles
- Time: 25 minutes
- Tariff: Tariff 2 (Evening)
- Additional Charges: £0
- Estimated Fare: Approximately £25.00 – £28.00
- Example 3: Longer Night Trip to Heathrow
- Distance: 15 miles
- Time: 45 minutes
- Tariff: Tariff 3 (Night)
- Additional Charges: £5.00 (Heathrow surcharge)
- Estimated Fare: Approximately £70.00 – £75.00
Please note that these are estimates. Actual fares may vary slightly due to exact traffic conditions, route taken, and official tariff updates.