The notorious London black cabs, and their even more notorious drivers, are easy to flag down around the city; yellow light on the roof on means they’re free to do your bidding.

Drivers have to pass the infamous ‘The Knowledge’ exam, detailing 320 routes through London and significant landmarks and venues before they can work.

A failsafe taxi service is Addison Lee, who have over 2000 cabs in London and can generally pick up from anywhere within 15 minutes. They don’t run on meters and you only ever pay the price they’ll quote you beforehand. You can set up and account online or pay by cash, and order by phone or online.

TOP TIP

Never take an unauthorised minicab anywhere. Too many horror stories of journeys gone wrong make this a risk not worth taking for a few pounds saved; minicab touts will often work outside busy clubs and bars and try and hustle you into a car at kicking out time.

For a safe alternative, text 'HOME' to 60835, and it will send you one taxi and two local licensed minicab numbers direct to your mobile. Text charged at 35p per enquiry, plus standard text message rate.