So, You Need a Taxi in Gloucester? Here’s What Actually Works (From Someone Who’s Been There Too Many Times)
Quick Summary (If You Just Want the TL;DR)
| Taxi Service | Why I’d Use It | What’s Annoying About It |
|---|---|---|
| Andy Cars | Reliable, 24/7, solid go-to | Can be booked solid during peak hours |
| Associated | Local vibe, friendly drivers | No app, just calls |
| A2B Taxis | Budget option, good for airports | Sometimes slow, depends on time of day |
| Eco Taxi | Hybrid cars, good ethics | Fewer cars = longer waits sometimes |
| Uber | App convenience, tracking | Limited coverage, surge pricing possible |
Right — let me just say it up front: getting a taxi in Gloucester isn’t that hard, but finding one that shows up on time, doesn’t take the scenic route for no reason, and doesn’t make your wallet cry? That’s a different story.
I’ve lived here for a few years now — long enough to have tried most of the taxi options, usually in a rush, in the rain, or after one too many pints. So, I figured I’d put together a quick, no-nonsense list of the taxi companies I’ve used, liked, or at least didn’t completely lose my patience with.
If you’re after fancy, luxury stuff — this probably isn’t it. But if you just want a ride that shows up and gets you where you need to be, here we go.
1. Andy Cars
Probably the most well-known name in town. Like, everyone and their nan has Andy Cars saved in their phone.
They’re open 24/7, and that’s not just a slogan — I’ve called them at 3:45 AM for a last-minute airport run, still half-asleep, and boom, they were there in 10 minutes. The app works alright (not the prettiest, but it does the job), and prices are… standard, I’d say.
Why I use them: They show up. That alone puts them above a few others.
Downside: Can be slammed on busy nights — book ahead if it’s a Friday or race day.
2. Associated Taxis
These guys feel like the “local legends” kind of vibe. No app, just a good old-fashioned phone call and a driver who actually knows where your street is without needing three wrong turns and a satellite.
They’re my go-to when I want a ride home after work and don’t feel like dealing with tech. Friendly drivers too — once one helped me jumpstart my car when I was stuck. Can’t make that up.
Why I use them: Good people, fast response in town, no fuss.
Downside: No app. If you hate calling, maybe not for you.
3. A2B Taxis
Cheap, usually. That’s the main thing with A2B. I’ve used them for airport runs or those longer trips where saving a few quid actually matters. The cars aren’t shiny-new, but they work, and most drivers I’ve had were decent.
They do get busy sometimes and aren’t always bang on time, but if you’re flexible, they’re a solid choice.
Why I use them: Budget-friendly and they go to airports.
Downside: Can run a bit late if traffic’s bad or they’re swamped.
4. Eco Taxi
Discovered them when I was trying to be a bit more environmentally conscious (or at least feel less guilty about short trips). They run hybrids, and the drivers tend to be chill and professional.
It’s not the fastest option — they don’t have as many cars on the road — but when you do get one, the experience is smooth. Feels like you’re supporting something positive, y’know?
Why I use them: It’s a small thing, but feels good to go green-ish.
Downside: Limited availability. Don’t count on it during peak times.
5. Uber (Yes, It Sort of Works Here)
So yeah, technically Uber is a thing in Gloucester. But don’t expect London-level service — it’s more like “if you’re lucky and near the town centre, you might get a ping.”
When it works, it’s great — you know the fare, you can track the car, and there’s no awkward “how much is it gonna be?” chat. But it’s a bit hit or miss.
Why I use it: Convenience, especially when I’m already on my phone.
Downside: Hit or miss. Sometimes no drivers for miles.
Final Word (Because Why Not)
If you’re new to Gloucester or just tired of the usual taxi roulette, hopefully this list saves you a bit of stress. I’d say keep Andy Cars and Associated in your contacts — between the two, you’ll probably be covered 90% of the time. The rest? Depends on your priorities. Want to save money? A2B. Want to save the planet (a little)? Eco Taxi. Want to roll the dice? There’s always Uber.
And hey — if you know a hidden gem I’ve missed, I’m always up for recommendations.