Written by the Sydenham Mini Cabs team. Last updated .
Booking and fares
How do I book a minicab?
Call 020 8778 8888 or use the online form on our home page. Give us the pickup address, the destination, the time and the number of passengers. We confirm the fare before the booking is made.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. Private hire cars in London must be booked before the journey, through a licensed operator. For local trips you can book minutes ahead. For airports and early mornings, book the day before.
Will I know the fare before I travel?
Yes. We quote a price when you book. Ask us to confirm what it includes, such as airport drop off fees, tunnel charges or the Congestion Charge.
How can I pay?
By card or cash. Regular customers and businesses can open an account and pay weekly.
Can I change or cancel a booking?
Yes. Call the office as early as you can. Ask us about any cancellation charge when you book, particularly for airport journeys.
Airports and stations
Do you track flights?
For airport pickups we ask for your flight number and follow the landing time, so the driver is sent for when you really arrive. See the Sydenham to Heathrow Airport taxi page for an example of how it works.
What is meet and greet?
The driver waits in the arrivals hall with a board showing your name and walks you to the car. Ask for it when you book an airport pickup.
Which stations do you go to?
All of the main London terminals. Our station pages, such as the Sydenham to King's Cross Station taxi, give routes and typical times.
Vehicles and passengers
What size of car do I need?
A saloon takes up to four passengers. An estate takes four with more luggage. For five or more, see the 6 seater taxi and 7 seater taxi pages. We also have an 8 seater minibus.
Do you have child seats?
Child seats are available on request. Tell us the age of each child when you book.
Can I bring my dog or cat?
Yes, if you tell us in advance. Our pet friendly taxi page explains how it works. Assistance dogs are always carried.
Do you have wheelchair accessible vehicles?
Yes, on request. Please tell us when you book whether the passenger will stay in the wheelchair or transfer to a seat.
Service and safety
What hours are you open?
24 hours a day, every day of the year.
Are your drivers licensed?
Yes. Private hire drivers in London are licensed by Transport for London, which involves an enhanced criminal record check and a medical. Our operator licence number is [TfL licence number]. Read more on the about us page.
Which areas do you cover?
Sydenham and the surrounding districts, listed on our areas we cover page. We drive to any destination.
I left something in the car. What should I do?
Call the office with the date and time of your journey. We will contact the driver. Full details are on the contact us page.