Does London Have Uber or Lyft?

By Anna Duncan

If you’re planning a trip to London, one of the first things you might wonder is whether or not the city has ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. The answer is yes and no – let’s take a closer look.

Uber in London

Yes, London does have Uber. However, the company has faced some legal challenges in recent years. In 2017, for example, Transport for London (TfL) declined to renew Uber’s license to operate in the city, citing concerns about passenger safety and driver screening processes.

After making some changes to its policies and procedures, however, Uber was granted a new license in 2018. As of 2021, it continues to operate in the city.

Using Uber in London

If you’re looking to use Uber during your time in London, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

  • You’ll need to have the Uber app downloaded on your smartphone.
  • Uber operates differently in London than it does in many other cities – for example, you won’t be able to hail an Uber from the street.
  • Instead, you’ll need to use the app to request a ride.
  • You can pay for your ride using a credit card or through the app itself.

Lyft in London

No, Lyft does not currently operate in London. While the company has expanded rapidly across many cities and countries over the past few years, it has yet to make its way across the pond.

Alternatives to Lyft

While Lyft may not be an option during your time in London, there are plenty of other ways to get around:

  • The city’s iconic black cabs are always an option – just look for the ones with the “Taxi” sign on top.
  • You can also use other ride-sharing services like Bolt or Kapten.
  • London’s public transportation system, which includes buses, trains, and Subways, is also extensive and reliable.

Final Thoughts

While it may be disappointing to some that Lyft isn’t available in London, there are still plenty of options for getting around the city. And with Uber still operating in the city despite some challenges, you can still rely on ride-sharing services for your transportation needs. Just be sure to do your research ahead of time to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.