Derby isn’t London, but it’s not some tiny village either. Whether you’re heading to the train station, catching a flight from East Midlands Airport, or just trying to get home after a night out in the Cathedral Quarter, having a reliable taxi service in your phone is a must.
Over the years, I’ve tried plenty of Derby taxi firms—some great, some… let’s just say “questionable.” So here’s my no-nonsense, real-world guide to taxi services in Derby, based on actual experiences—good and bad.
🚖 Top Derby Taxi Services
| Company | Booking Options | Price Range | My Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Albatross Cars | 📞 Call / 🌐 Web / 📱 App | ££ | ✅ Reliable and well-established |
| Western Cars | 📞 Call / 🌐 Web | ££ | 👍 Friendly, efficient, and affordable |
| PJ Cars | 📞 Call / 🌐 Web | ££ | ⚖️ Decent backup during peak hours |
| Uber | 📱 App Only | £–££ | ⚠️ Convenient but sometimes unreliable |
| Derby Executive Travel | 📞 Call / 🌐 Web | £££ | ✔️ Premium service for business and airport transfers |
1. Albatross Cars – The Trusted Choice
Albatross Cars is one of Derby’s biggest and most well-known taxi firms. They have a large fleet and a solid reputation for being on time. Whether you need a quick ride into town or a reliable airport transfer, they’re a great all-rounder.
Best for:
✔️ Airport transfers
✔️ Station runs
✔️ Everyday travel
2. Western Cars – Friendly, Affordable, and Efficient
Every time I’ve booked with Western Cars, the experience has been smooth. The fares are fair, the drivers are polite, and they turn up when they say they will. If you’re looking for a balance between reliability and cost, they’re a solid pick.
Best for:
✔️ Local trips
✔️ Budget-friendly fares
✔️ Late-night journeys
3. PJ Cars – The Backup Plan
Not as well-known as some of the bigger names, but PJ Cars has saved me a few times when other firms were fully booked. Their service is decent, and they tend to have availability, even during busy periods.
Best for:
✔️ Last-minute bookings
✔️ Peak-time travel
✔️ Short city trips
4. Uber – Convenient, But Unpredictable
Yes, Uber operates in Derby, but availability can be hit or miss. Sometimes you’ll get a car in minutes; other times, you’ll be left waiting—or worse, facing surge pricing that makes a short trip cost way more than it should.
Best for:
✔️ App tracking and cashless payments
✔️ Quick city trips
✔️ When local taxis are fully booked
5. Derby Executive Travel – Premium Service for Special Occasions
If you need something more luxurious, Derby Executive Travel is the way to go. Their cars are high-end, their drivers are professional, and they cater to business travelers or anyone looking for extra comfort.
Best for:
✔️ Business travel
✔️ Airport transfers
✔️ VIP and special events
So, Which Taxi Service is Best in Derby?
🔹 For everyday rides: Albatross Cars or Western Cars
🔹 For a backup when others are booked: PJ Cars
🔹 For app convenience: Uber (if available)
🔹 For premium travel: Derby Executive Travel
Honestly, it’s smart to save at least two taxi numbers in your phone. Derby might not be the biggest city, but on weekends or event days, taxis can get booked up fast. Once you find a service you trust, getting around becomes easy.