Durham might be small compared to the likes of Newcastle or Leeds, but it definitely knows how to keep you busy — especially when it’s student season or there’s a match on. Whether you’re rushing to catch a train, heading to the university, or trying to get home after one too many pints in the city centre, having a decent taxi number saved in your phone is an absolute must.
I’ve used quite a few taxi services in Durham over the years — some brilliant, some… let’s just say I wouldn’t call again. So here’s my straight-up, no-nonsense guide to the local taxi scene, based on real rides and a few too many last-minute scrambles.
🚖 Top Taxi Services in Durham
| Taxi Company | How to Book | Price Range | My Take |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRT Taxis | 📞 Call / 🌐 Website / 📱 App | 💰💰 | ✅ Always reliable, covers the whole area |
| Mac’s Taxis | 📞 Call / 🌐 Website | 💰💰 | 👍 Friendly drivers, decent rates |
| Durham City Taxis | 📞 Call / 🌐 Website | 💰💰 | ⚖️ Solid backup, especially during rush hours |
| Uber | 📱 App Only | 💰–💰💰 | ⚠️ Convenient, but can be a mixed bag |
| St. Cuthbert’s Cars | 📞 Call / 🌐 Website | 💰💰💰 | ✔️ Great for uni travel & airport runs |
🚖 The Breakdown
1. PRT Taxis – The Local Favourite
These guys have been around forever and they’re one of the few services you can pretty much always count on. Quick to respond, fair prices, and they cover the whole Durham area — even the bits out in the sticks.
Best for:
✔️ Train station runs
✔️ Uni pickups
✔️ General day-to-day rides
2. Mac’s Taxis – Friendly and Fair
Every time I’ve used Mac’s, it’s been smooth sailing. The drivers are proper down-to-earth, prices are decent, and you’re not left waiting around. Nothing fancy — just reliable.
Best for:
✔️ Local trips
✔️ Late-night lifts
✔️ When you want a chilled-out driver
3. Durham City Taxis – The Standby Hero
Not always the first one people think of, but they’ve saved me more than once when everywhere else was fully booked. Service is solid, and they’re usually available when it’s busy.
Best for:
✔️ Peak-time travel
✔️ Last-minute bookings
✔️ Short hops around town
4. Uber – Handy, But Hit-or-Miss
Uber does work in Durham — sometimes. When it’s good, it’s great. When it’s not, well… you could be left waiting longer than you’d like, especially during student rush hours or nights out.
Best for:
✔️ App bookings
✔️ Card payments
✔️ When you can’t get through to local firms
5. St. Cuthbert’s Cars – A Step Up
If you’re heading to the airport or want something a bit more polished, these guys are a great option. They do uni travel, long-distance trips, and business stuff too — all with a bit of extra comfort.
Best for:
✔️ Airport runs
✔️ Business travel
✔️ Students going home for the weekend
🚖 So, What’s the Best Taxi in Durham?
🔹 For regular, reliable rides: Go with PRT Taxis or Mac’s Taxis
🔹 Need a backup during peak hours? Durham City Taxis is your friend
🔹 Prefer app booking? Uber is handy — when it’s working
🔹 Want a nicer ride? Try St. Cuthbert’s Cars
Word of advice: Durham gets BUSY — especially during uni terms and weekends. Save a couple of numbers now so you’re not left standing outside in the rain, praying for signal.