The price differences depend on several factors: time, distance, and demand. An Uber ride in the UK can be cheaper than a taxi ride for longer journeys. But during peak hours, surge pricing by Uber can cause quite a rise above the usual taxi fare. On short-distance trips, black cabs are often a very economical alternative to the Uber surge-pricing taxi fare, as the regulated fare structure implemented by all London taxi companies is considered.

Taxi services are available for hire from all London airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and London City Airport. Black cabs are at hand outside the terminals, while private hire services can be pre-booked. Other taxis, such as Uber or Bolt, are found in most of London's airports.

Taxi fares from London's airports depend on the distance travelled and the type of service chosen. Generally, black cab fares from Heathrow to central London cost £50-£100 and fixed lower fares are available in Taxis or pre-booked private hire vehicles. Different airports will charge differently, with the most distance incurred on the journey being the most. It is therefore wise to check fares in advance on taxi companies' websites or through ride-hailing apps.

In the UK, taxi calling depends on several ways:

• On the street: A black cab with a "for hire" sign is flagged down in London.
• Taxi app: Hail for an immediate ride using apps such as Uber, Bolt, Free Now, or Ola.
• Via telephone: Various taxi companies have call centres for advance taxi bookings.
• Taxis: There are licensed companies for such kinds of taxis in the UK, and these types of taxis offer pre-booked rides arranged either online or over the phone.

No, cash is not necessary for London taxis. Most black cabs now accept card payments, including contactless and mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. Nevertheless, getting confirmation from the driver before your ride begins is advisable. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber need you to pay via an app.

Not really. Many people are now booking rides using mobile Apps or online taxi service websites for booking taxis. In places like busy London, you can even hail a black cab from the street. Calling for one or pre-booking is advisable when you need a certain type of vehicle or preferred scheduled pickup.

There are several methods of calling a taxi from Heathrow Airport:

• Hire a black cab from the taxi ranks situated outside of each terminal.
• Use a ride-hailing app, for example, Uber, Bolt, etc.
• Pre-book a taxi or chauffeur service before your arrival.
• Contact a local taxi company serving Heathrow Airport.

No, not really. Taxis usually have a space in the airport, and black cabs are found waiting there. However, depending on the time of day or with inclement weather, it may take extra time. Pre-booking by way of a taxi service or ride-hailing service is a good escape.

Cancellation policy depends upon the taxi company and ride-sharing platform.

• Uber and all apps allow a cancellation, but should you feel the driver has already been dispatched, you might be incurring a fee.
• With taxi services, a cancellation charge becomes chargeable especially when the driver is already here or on the way.
• Black cabs shouldn't have the cancellation question since they are mostly not booked unless otherwise.

The answer varies from the taxi service in question to that in London. In black cabs, guide dogs and service animals are usually welcomed; on the other hand, normal pet dogs may be accepted or rejected at the driver's discretion. When hiring a taxi or using a ride-hailing service, confirmation from the driver is advised before booking. Some taxi operators have specially designated vehicles for customers traveling with pets upon request.

Britannia is a web-based platform to compare and book Taxis in the UK. The following are steps to book a taxi on Britannia:

• You can either go to the Britannia website or install its app.
• Enter your pickup and drop-off locations.
• Compare prices from several taxi providers.
• Select your preferred option and complete your booking.
• Receive confirmation details and track if your ride allows it.