Stansted might not be as central as Heathrow or Gatwick, but it’s a go-to for budget flights and quick European getaways. Whether you’re catching a 6 a.m. Ryanair flight or landing back late at night, the last thing you want is to be stuck figuring out transport.
I’ve taken all sorts of taxis to and from Stansted — from fancy pre-booked rides to desperate last-minute Ubers. Some were great. Some… not so much. So here’s a real-world guide to taxi options at Stansted Airport — no fluff, just facts.
🚖 Top Taxi Options for Stansted Airport
| Company / Option | Booking Options | Price Range | My Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stansted Airport Taxis | 📞 Call / 🌐 Web | ££ | ✅ Airport-savvy and reliable |
| 24/7 Stansted Taxis | 📞 Call / 🌐 Web | ££ | 👍 Friendly, efficient, good for groups |
| Street Cars | 📞 Call / 🌐 Web | £–££ | ⚖️ Cheap but inconsistent |
| Uber | 📱 App Only | £–££ | ⚠️ Convenient, but unreliable at times |
| London Black Cabs | 📞 Call / 🌐 Web | £££ | ✔️ Expensive but available in a pinch |
1. Stansted Airport Taxis – The Airport Regulars
This is the official service tied to the airport, and they’ve got it down to a science. You can pre-book online or by phone, and they’ll monitor your flight for delays. They’re not the cheapest, but they show up, help with luggage, and make the trip painless.
Best for:
- First-time travellers
- Early morning or late-night flights
- Luggage-heavy travel
2. 24/7 Stansted Taxis – Friendly, Flexible, Dependable
This local service is well-reviewed and works around the clock — great for late-night returns or airport dashes. They’ve got vehicles for all group sizes, and prices are decent for the service level.
Best for:
- Group travel
- Off-peak rides
- Pre-booked pickups and returns
3. Street Cars – Cheap If You Know Who to Call
There are plenty of smaller cab companies in the surrounding towns (Bishop’s Stortford, Harlow, etc.) that offer airport transfers for less. The catch? Quality varies. Some are brilliant. Others… not what you want at 4 a.m.
Best for:
- Regulars who know a good firm
- Budget-conscious travel
- Short-distance airport rides
4. Uber – Handy, But Not Always Reliable
Uber does operate around Stansted, but driver availability can be patchy, especially during busy times or very early/late hours. Surge pricing is a thing, and you may need to walk to a designated pickup point outside the terminal.
Best for:
- App users
- Solo travellers
- Short-notice trips (with backup plans)
5. London Black Cabs – Pricey, But Always Game
If you’re heading into or out of London, a black cab will get the job done — but it’ll cost you. Great for convenience, not so great for your wallet. Don’t expect luxury, but the drivers know the roads like the back of their hand.
Best for:
- Last-minute travel
- Visitors unfamiliar with local apps
- Direct, no-booking-needed rides
So, What’s the Best Taxi to Stansted?
- Reliable & airport-specific: Stansted Airport Taxis or 24/7 Stansted Taxis
- Cheapest (with research): Street Cars
- App lovers: Uber (when available)
- Instant city travel: Black cab (if you don’t mind the fare)
As always: pre-book if you can, especially during peak hours or odd travel times. Having a couple of numbers saved in your phone can turn a stressful trip into a smooth one — and that’s exactly what you need before or after a flight.