Navigating London’s bustling streets doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With the rise of ride-hailing apps, travelers and locals alike can now choose from a variety of affordable, convenient, and safe taxi services. While Uber once dominated the market, new competitors have emerged, offering lower fares, innovative features, and driver-friendly policies. In this guide, we’ll explore the cheapest taxi apps in London, compare their pricing models, and share insider tips to help you save on every ride.
Table of Contents
Cheapest Taxi Apps in London: Save Big on Every Ride
1. Bolt (Formerly Taxify): The Budget-Friendly Challenger
Why It’s Cheap:
Bolt, originally launched as Taxify in 2017, entered London’s market with a bang by undercutting Uber’s prices. The Estonian startup’s business model focuses on taking a smaller commission from drivers (15% vs. Uber’s 20–25%), allowing them to charge passengers less. Bolt (Taxi App ) also avoids surge pricing, making it a reliable option during peak hours. Learn more about Bolt’s pricing on their official website.
Key Features:
- Lower Fares: A 2023 comparison showed a trip from Aldgate East to Angel Station costs approximately £7–£9 with Bolt, while Uber’s equivalent ride ranges from £12–£18 (without surge pricing).
- Cash & Card Payments: Unlike Uber, Bolt accepts both cash and digital payments.
- Safety: All drivers are licensed and vetted by Transport for London (TfL).
Discounts:
New users enjoy 50% off their first ride (up to £10) with promo code BOLT2023.
Drawbacks:
Bolt’s fleet is smaller than Uber’s, so wait times can be longer in suburban areas. Transport for London (TfL), ensuring compliance with strict regulations.
2. Uber: The Controversial Giant
Why It’s (Sometimes) Cheap:
Uber taxi app remains a popular choice due to its vast network of 40,000 drivers and features like upfront pricing. However, its costs fluctuate with demand-based surge pricing, which can spike fares during rush hours or bad weather.
Cost-Saving Tips:
- UberX Share: Split rides with strangers heading in the same direction for up to 30% off.
- Promo Codes: Use UBERLONDON23 for £5 off your first three rides.
- Off-Peak Travel: Book between 10 AM–4 PM for lower rates.
Safety Upgrades:
After past controversies, Uber introduced features like real-time ride tracking, driver ratings, and an emergency SOS button.
Drawbacks:
Surge pricing and driver protests over pay cuts remain ongoing issues.
3. Kabbee: The Minicab Aggregator
Why It’s Cheap:
Kabbee partners with over 70 licensed minicab fleets in London, offering fixed fares that are often 30% cheaper than black cabs. Its app compares prices across providers, ensuring you always get the best deal.
Kabbee partners with 70+ fleets. Compare prices directly on Kabbee’s platform or on Kabbee’s Taxi App
Key Features:
- Rewards Program: Earn “Kabbee Miles” for discounts and free upgrades.
- Flight Monitoring: The app tracks your flight’s arrival time for stress-free airport pickups.
Discounts:
New users get 10% off their first ride with code KAB10.
Drawbacks:
Less convenient for instant bookings compared to Uber or Bolt.
4. FREE NOW (Formerly Hailo): Black Cabs at a Discount
Why It’s Cheap:
FREE NOW specializes in London’s iconic black cabs, which are typically pricier than minicabs. However, the app offers fixed fares that undercut traditional meter rates, especially for longer journeys.
Key Features:
- Taxi Sharing: Split rides with others heading in the same direction.
- Corporate Accounts: Ideal for business travelers with expense tracking.
Discounts:
Use FREENOW23 for 20% off your first two rides.
Drawbacks:
Black cabs are still costlier than minicabs for short trips.
5. Gett: The Business Traveler’s Choice
Why It’s Cheap:
Gett offers metered black cab rides with no surge pricing. Frequent users earn “Gett Points” for free upgrades and perks like champagne deliveries in upscale neighborhoods.
Key Features:
- Price Transparency: Pay the standard meter rate plus a £2 booking fee.
- Luxury Perks: Free Veuve Clicquot champagne for rides in Chelsea or Knightsbridge.
Discounts:
First-time users get £10 off with code GETT10.
Drawbacks:
Limited availability outside central London.
6. ViaVan: Shared Rides for Super Savers
Why It’s Cheap:
ViaVan’s algorithm matches passengers heading in the same direction, splitting costs between riders. A trip from Shoreditch to Paddington costs as little as £6 during off-peak hours.
Key Features:
- Dynamic Routing: Minimal detours despite shared rides.
- Women-Only Rides: Optional female driver/passenger matching for safety.
Discounts:
First ride 50% off with code VIA50.
Drawbacks:
Longer travel times due to shared routes.
Comparison Table: Which App Saves You the Most?
| App | Base Fare (3 miles) | Surge Pricing? | Discounts | Unique Perks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bolt | £7–£9 | No | 50% off first ride | Cash payments accepted |
| Uber | £10–£15 | Yes | £5 off first 3 rides | Largest driver network |
| Kabbee | £8–£12 | No | 10% off first ride | Airport ride discounts |
| FREE NOW | £12–£18 | No | 20% off first two rides | Black cab reliability |
| Gett | £15–£20 | No | £10 off first ride | Luxury perks |
| ViaVan | £6–£10 | No | 50% off first ride | Eco-friendly shared rides |
Pro Tips to Maximize Savings
- Combine Apps: Use Bolt for short trips and ViaVan for shared long-distance rides.
- Leverage Promo Codes: Rotate apps to exploit first-time user discounts.
- Avoid Peak Hours: Travel between 10 AM–4 PM or after 8 PM for lower fares.
- Pre-Book Airport Rides: Save 20% by booking Kabbee or Gett 24 hours in advance.
Safety First: What to Look For
- Licensed Drivers: Ensure your app only uses TfL-licensed vehicles.
- Share Trip Details: Apps like Uber and Bolt let you share your ETA with contacts.
- Check Reviews: Avoid drivers with ratings below 4.5 stars.
- Always verify TfL licensing: For more on regulatory compliance, revisit TfL’s guidelines.
Conclusion
London’s taxi app market is more competitive than ever, with Bolt and ViaVan leading the charge for affordability. Whether you prioritize black cab luxury (Gett, FREE NOW) or budget-friendly shared rides (ViaVan, Bolt), there’s an app to match every need and budget. By combining promo codes, off-peak travel, and strategic app-switching, you can slash your transport costs without compromising on safety or convenience. For Best and Quality Dispatching services contact us at The GN Technologies.
Ready to save? Download these apps today and ride smarter!
