Top 10 UK Cities by Number of Registered Taxis

The United Kingdom is home to many bustling cities that rely heavily on public transportation, including taxis. Taxis are a crucial mode of transportation for many commuters, tourists, and residents in these cities.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the top 10 cities in the UK measured by the number of registered taxis, along with statistical data and exact numbers.

1. London

Number of taxis: 21 000
London, the capital city of the UK, has the largest number of registered taxis in the country with over 21,000 licensed black cabs.

These iconic vehicles are a common sight on the streets of London and are known for their spacious interiors and knowledgeable drivers.

The taxi industry in London is regulated by Transport for London (TfL), which sets strict standards for licensing, driver training, and vehicle maintenance.

If you’re a tourist visiting the city for the first time or a local resident heading to a destination, hailing a black cab is a convenient and reliable way to travel around London.

2. Manchester

Number of taxis: 2 743

Manchester, a major city in the North West of England, has the second-highest number of registered taxis in the UK with 2,743 licensed vehicles.

Manchester’s taxi industry is regulated by the Manchester City Council, which sets strict standards for driver training and vehicle maintenance.

Moreover, Manchester’s taxi industry has experienced significant transformation in recent years due to the emergence of new technologies and services.

For example, many taxi operators in Manchester have implemented mobile apps for customers to book and track their vehicles, while others have adopted more environmentally-friendly transportation options like hybrid or electric vehicles to reduce their carbon footprint.

These changes have not only enhanced the efficiency and sustainability of the taxi industry in Manchester but also provided more convenience and flexibility for passengers.

3. Birmingham

Number of taxis: 2 561

With 2,561 licensed vehicles, Birmingham, the second-largest city in the UK, has the third-highest number of registered taxis.

Birmingham City Council regulates the taxi industry in Birmingham and imposes stringent requirements for licensing and vehicle upkeep.

In addition, Birmingham’s taxi industry has also witnessed the adoption of new technologies, such as booking and payment apps, and the use of hybrid or electric vehicles to reduce emissions and meet the city’s environmental goals.

These changes have made the taxi industry in Birmingham more efficient, sustainable and customer-oriented.

4. Liverpool

Number of taxis: 1 904

Liverpool, a port city in the North West of England, has the fourth-highest number of registered taxis in the UK with 1,904 licensed vehicles.

The Liverpool City Council oversees the regulation of the taxi industry in Liverpool, and enforces rigorous guidelines for driver training and maintenance of vehicles.

Liverpool taxis are a popular choice for locals and tourists alike, offering convenient transportation options such as 24/7 service, wheelchair accessibility, and mobile booking.

If you need a ride to a destination or just want to explore the city, Liverpool’s taxi industry has got you covered.

5. Leeds

Number of taxis: 1 695

Leeds, a major city in the North of England, has the fifth-highest number of registered taxis in the UK with 1,695 licensed vehicles.

The Leeds City Council is responsible for regulating the taxi industry in Leeds, and establishes stringent criteria for licensing and maintaining vehicles.

The Leeds taxi industry has seen the emergence of new players in recent years, such as ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft, which have introduced new competition to the traditional taxi market.

This has led to some changes in the industry, such as the implementation of ride-sharing services by some traditional taxi operators, and the use of more modern technologies to improve the customer experience.

6. Glasgow

Number of taxis: 1 447

Glasgow, the largest city in Scotland, has the sixth-highest number of registered taxis in the UK with 1,447 licensed vehicles.

Glasgow City Council is in charge of regulating the taxi industry in Glasgow, and imposes rigorous regulations for driver training and vehicle maintenance to ensure adherence to high standards.

The Glasgow taxi industry has been impacted by the emergence of ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt, which have introduced new competition and alternative transportation options for customers.

This has prompted some traditional taxi operators in Glasgow to modernize their fleets and services, such as offering mobile apps for booking and tracking, to remain competitive and attract customers.

Despite the challenges posed by new technologies and services, the taxi industry in Glasgow continues to play an important role in providing reliable and convenient transportation to the city’s residents and visitors.

7. Edinburgh

Number of taxis: 1 223

Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, has the seventh-highest number of registered taxis in the UK with 1,223 licensed vehicles.

The City of Edinburgh Council regulates the taxi industry in Edinburgh and enforces stringent requirements for licensing and maintaining vehicles to uphold high standards of service.

Edinburgh’s taxis are an ideal way to explore the city’s stunning architecture, historic landmarks, and scenic routes, with knowledgeable drivers who are familiar with the city’s top destinations.

Whether you need a ride to the airport or want to take a tour around the city, Edinburgh’s taxi industry offers a range of options to suit every need.

8. Bristol

Number of taxis: 1,179

Bristol, a major city in the South West of England, has the eighth-highest number of registered taxis in the UK with 1,179 licensed vehicles.

To ensure quality service, the taxi industry in Bristol is subject to strict standards for driver training and vehicle maintenance that are established by the regulatory authority in the city.

To remain competitive, many traditional taxi operators in Bristol have introduced new technologies, such as mobile apps for booking and tracking, and have adopted more eco-friendly vehicles, such as hybrid or electric cars.

These changes have not only improved the sustainability and efficiency of the taxi industry in Bristol but have also provided more convenience and comfort to passengers.

9. Nottingham

Number of taxis: 1,077

Nottingham, a city in the East Midlands of England, has the ninth-highest number of registered taxis in the UK with 1,077 licensed vehicles.

The regulation of the taxi industry in Nottingham is the responsibility of the Nottingham City Council, which imposes stringent requirements for licensing and vehicle maintenance to maintain high service standards.

These requirements ensure that both drivers and passengers can enjoy a safe and reliable mode of transportation throughout the city.

Additionally, the council regularly reviews and updates these regulations, working closely with industry stakeholders, to adapt to changing needs and promote a sustainable and competitive taxi market in Nottingham.

10. Belfast

Number of taxis: 955

Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, has the tenth-highest number of registered taxis in the UK with 955 licensed vehicles.

The taxi industry in Belfast is regulated by the Department for Infrastructure, which sets strict standards for driver training and vehicle maintenance.

Belfast’s taxi industry is an essential part of the city’s transportation network, providing convenient and reliable services to locals and visitors alike.

From airport transfers to city tours, Belfast’s licensed taxis offer a range of options to suit different travel needs, with drivers who are knowledgeable about the city’s history and attractions.

Importance of Taxis in Public Transportation in the UK

In conclusion, the top 10 cities in the UK measured by the number of registered taxis range from London, with over 21,000 licensed black cabs, to Belfast with 955 licensed vehicles.

While London clearly dominates the market with a significant lead, other major cities such as Manchester, Birmingham, and Liverpool also have a significant number of registered taxis.

The taxi industry in the UK is highly regulated, with local councils and authorities responsible for setting standards for licensing, driver training, and vehicle maintenance.

This ensures that taxis are safe and reliable for passengers, and that drivers are knowledgeable and professional.

Overall, the high number of registered taxis in these top 10 cities is a testament to the importance of taxis as a mode of transportation for both residents and visitors alike.

While the industry has faced challenges in recent years, such as the rise of ride-hailing services, taxis continue to play a critical role in public transportation in the UK.

To sum up, the top 10 UK cities with the highest number of registered taxis, led by London and followed by other major cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Liverpool, highlight the significant role that taxis play in the nation’s transportation network.

Strict regulation and oversight by local councils ensure that taxis remain a safe, reliable, and professional service for both residents and visitors.

Despite challenges from ride-hailing services, the enduring popularity of taxis in these cities demonstrates their continued importance as a crucial component of public transportation across the United Kingdom.