The capital’s taxi market blends tradition and innovation from iconic black cabs to eco‑friendly chauffeurs and self‑driving pilots.
Whether you need a quick street-hail, luxury ride, accessibility support, or a self‑drive future, London’s taxi options offer something for every journey.
1. Wheely
Founded: 2010 (Zurich), London launch 2012; pivot to luxury 2018
Founder: Anton Chirkunov
Contact: App-only: Android & iOS; wheely.com
Services: Chauffeur-driven E/S-Class Mercedes; on-demand & pre-booked rides
Highlights: 2014 Wired “hottest startup”, 2019 FT 1000; 110 m bookings/year
2. Addison Lee
Founded: 1975 by John Griffin; HQ grows from Battersea
CEO: Liam Griffin
Contact: 0207 424 2400 | addisonlee.com
Services: Premium minicab, courier, motorcycle taxi, black cab hybrid
Notable: Acquired by ComfortDelGro in 2024; fleet 5,000 vehicles
3. Green Tomato Cars
Founded: 2006 by Jonny Goldstone & Tom Pakenham
Acquired: Travelhire (2019)
Contact: 020 7034 7100 | greentomatocars.com
Services: Environmentally-conscious ride-hailing with hybrid/zero-emission fleet
Why It Stands Out: First London service to use Prius & Mirai hydrogen cars
4. Gett
Founded: (from market research; app service)
UK Focus: London and major cities
Services: Black cab & private hire booking via app
Why It’s Popular: Reliable mid‑range pricing with fully licensed drivers
5. The Official Black Cab Company
Founded: c.2010
Service: Licensed London black cabs
Details: Offers classic street‑hail cabs and pre booked rides via their website
Why Choose It: All drivers pass “The Knowledge,” ensuring expert familiarity with London’s streets
6. Free Now
Origin: Formerly mytaxi; major pan‑EU presence
Services: Book black cab and private hire
Advantage: Integrates multiple vehicle types with transparent pricing
7. Bolt
Origin: Estonia’s ride-hailing giant expanding across Europe
Services: Budget-friendly private hire in London
Highlight: Competitive fares and app-based booking
8. Uber (as requested)
Founded: 2009 by Garrett Camp & Travis Kalanick
CEO: Dara Khosrowshahi
Contact: uber.com, App: iOS & Android
London Use: One of the top-hail and private-hire services, overcame licensing challenges
Notable Updates: Preparing for autonomous robotaxi pilot with Wayve in 2026
9. Ola
Origin: Indian ride-hailing platform
Services: Private hire, rentals, scooters, carpooling
Highlight: Entry into London with green-friendly options
10. Arro
Origin: US-based taxi booking app entering London
Services: Licensed black cabs via a mobile app; simple fare structure
