The black London taxicab is as much a feature of the cityscape as the red bus, although these days it comes in a variety of colours, bespattered with advertising. A new, streamlined black version has also been introduced. Taxis come into their own at night, although prices are higher. Cabs are available for hire when the yellow sign above the windscreen is lit; just stick your arm out to signal one.

Hailing a taxi in popular nightlife areas of London such as Soho late at night (and especially after pub closing time at 11pm ) can be tricky. If you do find yourself in any of those areas, signal all taxis - even those with their lights off. Many drivers are very choosy about their fares at this time of night.

Minicabs

Minicabs are now fully licensed and are cheaper, freelance competitors of black cabs. Minicabs cannot legally be hailed on the street - they must be hired by phone or directly from one of the minicab offices (every high street has at least one - look out for a flashing orange light). Licensed minicabs carry their licenses in their car and are also displayed in the operator's office.

Unlicensed minicabs are illegal. You may be approached by unlicensed minicab drivers seeking fares; it's advisable to avoid this as there have been a number allegations of assualt made against unlicensed cab drivers.

Minicabs don't have meters, so it's essential to fix a price before you start (it's therefore not usual to tip minicab drivers). Make sure you bargain hard, as most drivers start higher than the fare they're prepared to accept.

Ask a local for the name of a reputable minicab company, or phone a large 24- hour operator. Alternatively, check if the operator is licensed by calling Transport for London +44 (020) 7222 1234.

Women traveling alone at night can choose Ladycabs (Tel: +44 (020) 7254 3501), which has women drivers.

Freedom Cars (Tel: +44 (020) 7734 1313) caters for the gay and lesbian market, although gay couples are extremely unlikely to experience open homophobia from drivers of black cabs.

Disabled Travellers

All black cabs are wheelchair accessible and most have a variety of additional aids for disabled travellers, including;

- Ramps
- Swivel seat
- Intermediate step
- Seat sight patches
- Large coloured grab handles
- Intercom
- Induction loop
- Free carriage of assistance dogs