Southampton’s got a bit of everything — cruise ships, student nights, football matches, and plenty of rain when you least expect it. Whether you’re dashing to the docks, heading back from a night out on Bedford Place, or trying not to miss your train at Central Station, having a good taxi number saved is just common sense.
I’ve hopped in more than a few Southampton cabs over the years — some great, some that made me rethink my life choices. So here’s the real deal: a straight-up guide to the taxi services that actually get the job done.
🚖 Top Taxi Services in Southampton
| Taxi Company | How to Book | Price Range | My Take |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radio Taxis Southampton | 📞 Call / 🌐 Website / 📱 App | 💰💰 | ✅ Local classic – quick and reliable |
| West Quay Cars | 📞 Call / 🌐 Website / 📱 App | 💰💰 | 👍 Friendly drivers, decent prices |
| A1 Taxis Southampton | 📞 Call / 🌐 Website | 💰💰 | ⚖️ Great backup option, especially on weekends |
| Uber | 📱 App Only | 💰–💰💰 | ⚠️ Convenient, but hit or miss on busy nights |
| Southampton Exec Travel | 📞 Call / 🌐 Website | 💰💰💰 | ✔️ Best for airport runs & cruise terminals |
🚖 The Breakdown
1. Radio Taxis – The Local Favourite
Radio Taxis is one of those companies that’s been around forever — and for good reason. They’re fast, usually have cars available, and their app actually works. Whether it’s a ride to the station or getting you home after a night out, they’re a safe bet.
Best for:
✔️ Train station runs
✔️ Uni pickups
✔️ Nights out and late-night lifts
2. West Quay Cars – Friendly and Fair
West Quay is another solid option. Drivers are polite, they know the city well, and you won’t get stung with ridiculous prices. Great for getting across town or to the hospital, or just avoiding the rain.
Best for:
✔️ Everyday trips
✔️ Short-notice bookings
✔️ Reliable daytime service
3. A1 Taxis – The Underdog That Delivers
Not as well-known, but super helpful when the bigger names are fully booked. They’re especially handy on weekends when everyone’s out and the lines are busy. Definitely worth keeping in your contacts just in case.
Best for:
✔️ Backup plans
✔️ Last-minute lifts
✔️ Getting home from Ocean Village
4. Uber – Good When It’s Quiet, Stressful When It’s Not
Uber’s around in Southampton and it’s fine most of the time. But during big events, match days, or nights out, you might find yourself staring at the app wondering if that driver is ever turning up. Still, it’s great for cashless rides.
Best for:
✔️ App bookings
✔️ Paying by card
✔️ When local cabs are all tied up
5. Southampton Executive Travel – For When You Want to Arrive in Style
Got a flight, cruise, or fancy dinner to get to? These folks bring the comfort. Nice cars, well-dressed drivers, and stress-free service. More expensive, yeah, but worth it when you want to travel properly.
Best for:
✔️ Airport and cruise transfers
✔️ Special occasions
✔️ Business trips
🚖 So, What’s the Best Taxi in Southampton?
🔹 For everyday rides: Radio Taxis or West Quay Cars
🔹 Need a backup? A1 Taxis is your friend
🔹 Prefer booking on your phone? Uber — just be patient
🔹 Want something a bit nicer? Southampton Executive Travel’s got you
Pro tip: Southampton gets hectic — especially when the cruise ships are in, students are out, or it’s match day at St Mary’s. Save a couple of these numbers now so you’re not stuck in the rain, refreshing the app like a maniac.