London airport transfers and taxis
London has several airports and two big cruise ports within a few hours’ drive. You can take a black cab, pre-book a licensed minicab or chauffeur, or use fast trains and coaches. Always book private hire through a licensed operator, never with a street tout.
London black cab fares and minicabs
Black cabs run on a TfL meter. The minimum fare is £2.40, and a typical 6-mile trip costs about £23–£29 by day or £28–£33 at night. Paying by card can add a small surcharge. Minicabs and chauffeurs quote a fixed price when you book, which helps with long airport runs.
Congestion Charge and ULEZ in London
Cars entering central London pay the Congestion Charge, about £18 a day (check TfL), from 07:00 to 18:00 on weekdays and 12:00 to 18:00 at weekends. Black cabs are exempt, but private hire cars pay, so it may be added to your fare. Older, non-compliant vehicles also pay the ULEZ, £12.50 a day across all London boroughs.
London to Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and Luton
- Heathrow: 14 miles west, Heathrow Express from Paddington in 15 minutes
- Gatwick: Gatwick Express from Victoria in about 30 minutes
- Stansted and Luton: National Express coaches from about £10.50 and £9.50
- Southampton cruise port: about 80 miles south-west