Taxi Croydon

Passenger Guides & Tips

When fares are lower and how to avoid surge pricing

Almost everyone who uses taxis in the UK is familiar with the question of why the price of a journey in the app is sometimes higher than expected.

Where it’s better to hail a Black Cab and where an app is more cost-effective

In Britain, especially in its capital, there are two popular ways to use a taxi: hail a legendary Black Cab on the street or use an app such as Uber or Bolt.

Time-saving and toll-avoiding tips

Cars have long been considered the most convenient form of transport for travelling around Europe and the UK, among other places.

Is a child booster seat required, and how to request one?

Transporting children in a taxi is a popular choice for parents in the UK. This solution can be convenient for daily trips to school, transfers to the airport, or even for solving emergency unforeseen situations.

Can the fare be fixed in advance?

Taxi customers in the UK often want to know the cost of a ride in advance. Unlike situations where the price is formed by the meter during the ride, having a fixed rate allows you to avoid unpleasant surprises, especially when ordering during rush hour or going to the airport.

How to recover lost property?

Forgetting something in a taxi is a common occurrence. The phone slipped into the seat gap, the bag was left in the trunk, and sometimes the shopping bag was left on the floor.

Croydon’s a bit of a crossroads — part busy London borough, part its own little city. Whether you’re heading to East Croydon Station, catching a flight from Gatwick, or just don’t feel like navigating the tram system, a decent taxi is a lifesaver.

Over the years, I’ve tried quite a few taxis in Croydon — some great, some that made me wish I’d just walked. So here’s the real deal: a guide to the taxi companies that actually show up, don’t overcharge, and get you where you’re going.

🚖 Top Taxi Services in Croydon

Taxi Company	How to Book	Price Range	My Take
Express Cars Croydon	📞 Call / 🌐 Website	💰💰	✅ One of the most reliable and popular minicab firms in Croydon
Croydon Car Hire	📞 Call / 🌐 Website	💰💰	👍 Friendly drivers and fair pricing, great for everyday trips
Clocktower Cars	📞 Call / 🌐 Website	💰💰	⚖️ Fast service, handy for quick pickups near central Croydon
Uber	📱 App Only	💰–💰💰	⚠️ Convenient, but not always reliable during peak times
Station Cars Purley	📞 Call / 🌐 Website	💰💰	✔️ Great for South Croydon & Purley area with good rates

🚖 The Breakdown

1. Express Cars – Reliable & Widely Used

One of the biggest and most used taxi firms in the area. Whether you’re coming home from the pub or need a cab to Gatwick at 4am, they’ve usually got a driver nearby.

Best for:
✔️ Everyday rides
✔️ Airport transfers
✔️ Fast service anywhere in Croydon

2. Croydon Car Hire – Friendly and Fair

These guys have been around for years and are still one of the most trusted names in the area. Polite drivers, no silly surcharges, and ideal for regular local trips.

Best for:
✔️ School runs
✔️ Shopping trips
✔️ Reliable everyday travel

3. Clocktower Cars – Quick & Local

Based right in the heart of Croydon, they’re a good shout if you’re in central or near the shopping centre. Fast pickups and straightforward service.

Best for:
✔️ Station drop-offs
✔️ Short-distance hops
✔️ When you’re in a rush

4. Uber – Handy, But Not Always On Time

Yeah, Uber’s available in Croydon, and it’s fine when it works. But during rush hour or weekends? You might be refreshing the app longer than you’d like.

Best for:
✔️ App bookings
✔️ Paying by card
✔️ Off-peak convenience

5. Station Cars Purley – South Croydon’s Go-To

If you’re in Purley or nearby, these guys are great. Helpful drivers, good local knowledge, and competitive prices make them worth keeping in your contacts.

Best for:
✔️ South Croydon pickups
✔️ Airport transfers
✔️ Local families and commuters

🚖 So, What’s the Best Taxi in Croydon?

🔹 Need a reliable all-rounder? Go with Express Cars
🔹 Looking for local, friendly service? Croydon Car Hire is a safe choice
🔹 Need a fast ride from the station? Clocktower Cars are quick
🔹 Prefer booking through an app? Try Uber — just be ready to wait
🔹 In South Croydon or Purley? Station Cars has you covered

Quick tip: Croydon traffic can get messy — especially during rush hour or after Crystal Palace games. Always allow a bit of extra time, and if you’re heading to Gatwick, book ahead.