Are you planning a trip to London and wondering if there is rideshare available in the city? The short answer is yes, there is!
However, the rideshare options in London are slightly different from what you may be used to in other cities. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the rideshare scene in London.
Uber
Uber is perhaps the most popular rideshare service worldwide, and it’s no different in London. You can download the Uber app on your smartphone and use it to hail a ride from anywhere in the city. However, there are some differences between Uber in London and other cities.
One major difference is that Uber drivers in London need to obtain a private hire license from Transport for London (TfL) before they can legally operate. This means that you can expect your Uber driver to be knowledgeable about the city’s roads and traffic laws.
Bolt
Bolt (formerly known as Taxify) is another popular rideshare service available in London. Like Uber, you can download the Bolt app on your smartphone and use it to hail a ride. Bolt drivers also need to have a private hire license from TfL.
One advantage of using Bolt over Uber is that their fares are often cheaper. This could be due to lower commission fees charged by Bolt compared to Uber.
Kapten
Kapten is a French rideshare service that recently launched in London. It operates similarly to Uber and Bolt, with drivers needing to have a private hire license from TfL.
One interesting feature of Kapten is that they allow customers to book their ride up to two months in advance. This could come in handy if you need transportation for an event or appointment at a specific time.
Black cabs
London’s iconic black cabs are also considered a form of rideshare. However, they operate differently from Uber, Bolt, and Kapten. Black cab drivers need to pass a rigorous test called The Knowledge before they can obtain a license to operate in London.
The Knowledge involves memorizing all of London’s streets and landmarks, which means that black cab drivers are some of the most knowledgeable drivers on the road. They’re also able to pick up passengers on the street without needing to be hailed through an app.
Conclusion
In summary, there are several rideshare options available in London, including Uber, Bolt, Kapten, and black cabs. While each service operates slightly differently, you can expect safe and reliable transportation from all of them.
Whether you’re a local or a tourist in London, rideshare can be a convenient way to get around the city. So next time you’re in town, be sure to download one of these apps and give it a try!