Galashiels may be no metropolis but whether you’re doing the train station dash for a day out, heading out for a night, shopping haul, flying from Edinburgh Airport — or even avoiding a night out you don’t fancy going on with — you’ll want in your contacts a trusted taxi number.
As I have years under my belt, I’ve encountered different kinds of rides — some excellent, to the no-shows from hell. So here’s my honest, no-bull guide to taxi services in Galashiels — drawn from personal rides and what locals say really work.
🚖 Top Galashiels Taxi Services
| Company | Booking Options | Price Range | My Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gala Cabs | 📞 Call / 🌐 Web | ££ | ✅ Super reliable, always a top pick |
| Border Cabs | 📞 Call / 🌐 Web | £–££ | 👍 Friendly and local, good for quick lifts |
| Five Star Taxis | 📞 Call / 🌐 Web | ££ | ⚖️ Solid for late nights and weekends |
| Uber | 📱 App Only | £–£££ | ⚠️ Rarely available, don’t rely on it |
| BARC Cabs | 📞 Call / 🌐 Web | ££ | ✔️ Great for longer trips and pre-booking |
1. Gala Cabs – The Go-To in Town
Gala Cabs are near enough the black taxi backbone of Galashiels. They’re dependable, courteous, and convenient to book. Whether you’re looking for a quick rise to the train station or to journey more distance across the Borders, they’re on the case. Their drivers are familiar with every shortcut and side road — something that certainly comes in handy when it’s busy out.
Best for:
- Train station runs
- Town centre pickups
- General everyday travel
2. Border Cabs – Friendly & Fast
A lower-key operation with a local vibe. Border Cabs have been here for many years and they have a large client base for a good reason. They are especially nice if you just need a friendly, speedy, and inexpensive ride for local trips.
Best for:
- Local runs around Gala
- School pickups, errands
- Quick hops across town
3. Five Star Taxis – Child Night Owls Welcome
Whether you need a cab while you’re out clubbing or coming back from a late train, Five Star Taxis are a great option. They have a good reputation for honouring bookings and turning up when other companies could be fully booked. No, not the most exciting cars, but they do the job.
Best for:
- Late-night rides
- Weekend outings
- Backup when it’s busy
4. Uber — Technically Available, but Don’t Rely on It
“Yes, Uber is in Galashiels… sort of. In reality? Try finding a car when you actually need one. There simply are not that many drivers on the app in this part of the world, so while it’s good to keep on your phone, by no means should you rely on it.”
Best for:
- App payments
- Tracking your ride (if available; this did not work for me).
- Off-peak flukes
5. BARC Cabs – Best For Pre-Booked Journeys
BARC are also excellent for longer trips, so if you’re heading to Edinburgh, the airport or anywhere that’s more than a quick town jaunt. It’s better to call ahead and book — they’re not always available in a pinch, but when you line things up in advance, they’re very reliable.
Best for:
- Airport runs
- Hospital appointments
- Travel Outisde of Gala that you booked prior
So, Which Taxi Should You Use in Galashiels?
- Everyday rides: Gala Cabs
- Short, local trips: Border Cabs
- Late-night or weekend: Five Star Taxis
- App convenience: Uber (on a good day)
- Longer trips/airport: BARC Cabs
Galashiels is relatively small, and as soon as you’ve sorted out your taxi numbers, it’s easy to get around. Store a few trusted contacts in your phone and you’re golden — rain or shine, snow or shine, last-minute travel catastrophe or shine.