London Taxi and Private Hire TPH

Taxi and Private Hire (TPH) Licensed Airport Transfer Company in London

Professional TPH Licensed Private Hire Services for Airport Transfers, Chauffeur Travel and Long-Distance Journeys

When booking a private hire vehicle in London, passengers want reassurance that they are travelling with a licensed, reputable and professional operator. Heathrow Gatwick Cars is committed to providing safe, reliable and fully compliant transportation services for passengers travelling throughout London and the United Kingdom. As a professional airport transfer and private hire company, we understand the importance of operating within the regulations established by Transport for London (TfL) Taxi and Private Hire (TPH). These regulations are designed to protect passengers, maintain high standards and ensure that drivers, vehicles and operators meet strict licensing requirements. Whether you require a Heathrow Airport transfer, Gatwick Airport taxi, executive chauffeur service, corporate transport solution or long-distance journey, choosing a licensed private hire operator provides confidence that your journey will be carried out professionally and safely. NOTE: Public Carriage Office (PCO) has changed its name to Taxi and Private Hire TPH Find out how to become a taxi or private hire licensee and find the latest notices for current drivers, plus advice and updates on legal requirements and consultations. Visit: Taxi & private hire Transport for London
Our licensing fees have changed since 1 April 2015. Please can you ensure you check our website for the correct fee before sending your application.

What Is Taxi and Private Hire (TPH)?

Taxi and Private Hire (TPH) is the department within Transport for London responsible for regulating private hire operators, drivers and vehicles across London. The purpose of TPH licensing is to ensure that:
  • Operators meet regulatory requirements.
  • Drivers undergo appropriate checks and assessments.
  • Vehicles meet safety and roadworthiness standards.
  • Passengers receive safe and professional transport services.
Private hire vehicles differ from traditional taxis because journeys must be booked in advance through a licensed operator. This pre-booking requirement provides greater transparency and allows operators to manage bookings effectively. For passengers travelling to or from London’s airports, booking with a TPH licensed operator offers peace of mind that the company adheres to recognised standards and legal obligations.

Licensing

Information for taxi and private hire licensees and new applicants
Ranks, regulation & policy tph landing page

Ranks, regulation & policy

General guidance and policy documents for the taxi and private hire trade
Enforcement & compliance tph landing page

Enforcement & compliance

We’re working alongside the police to target rogue drivers and operators
Be Cabwise

Passenger information

If you are a taxi or private hire passenger, go to our passenger information page

Why Choosing a Licensed Private Hire Operator Matters

Many travellers focus solely on price when booking transportation. However, licensing, insurance and operational standards are equally important considerations.

Passenger Safety

Licensed private hire operators must comply with strict regulations designed to protect passengers throughout their journey.

Professional Drivers

Drivers operating under a licensed private hire operator are required to meet standards relating to suitability, knowledge and conduct.

Vehicle Standards

Vehicles used for private hire work must be maintained to high standards and meet licensing requirements.

Insurance Compliance

Appropriate insurance arrangements help ensure passengers are protected during their journey.

Booking Transparency

All journeys are pre-booked and recorded through the operator, providing accountability and traceability.

Heathrow Gatwick Cars – Trusted Airport Transfer Specialists

For many years, Heathrow Gatwick Cars has helped passengers travel efficiently between London’s major airports, hotels, business districts, cruise terminals and residential locations. Our services are designed around the needs of modern travellers who require:
  • Reliable airport transportation.
  • Professional customer service.
  • Competitive fixed pricing.
  • Comfortable vehicles.
  • Experienced drivers.
  • Flexible booking options.
Our reputation has been built upon punctuality, professionalism and customer satisfaction.

Airport Transfer Services Across London

Heathrow Airport Transfers

Heathrow Airport is the busiest airport in the United Kingdom and one of the busiest international airports in the world. Our Heathrow transfer services include:
  • Heathrow to Central London.
  • Heathrow to Gatwick Airport.
  • Heathrow to Stansted Airport.
  • Heathrow to Luton Airport.
  • Heathrow to hotels and business locations.
Flight monitoring ensures that drivers remain informed of arrival changes and adjust collection times where necessary.

Gatwick Airport Transfers

Gatwick Airport serves millions of passengers annually and is a major gateway for both domestic and international travel. We provide:
  • Gatwick to London transfers.
  • Gatwick to Heathrow transfers.
  • Gatwick to cruise terminals.
  • Gatwick to hotels.
  • Gatwick to business destinations.
Passengers benefit from fixed fares and professional meet-and-greet services.

Stansted Airport Transfers

Stansted Airport is a popular hub for European and international travel.

Our Stansted services include:

  • Stansted to London.
  • Stansted to Heathrow.
  • Stansted to Gatwick.
  • Stansted to Luton.
  • Stansted executive transfers.

Luton Airport Transfers

Luton Airport continues to grow as an important airport serving London and surrounding regions.

Our transfer services provide direct transportation between Luton Airport and destinations across the UK.


Airport-to-Airport Transfers

One of our most popular services is airport-to-airport transportation.

Passengers often need to transfer between:

  • Heathrow and Gatwick.
  • Heathrow and Stansted.
  • Heathrow and Luton.
  • Gatwick and Stansted.
  • Gatwick and Luton.
  • Stansted and Luton.

These journeys can be stressful using public transport, particularly when carrying luggage or travelling with family members.

A private airport transfer offers a direct and convenient solution.


Benefits of Private Airport Transfers

Door-to-Door Convenience

Drivers collect passengers from their specified location and transport them directly to their destination.

No Multiple Connections

Unlike trains and coaches, private transfers eliminate unnecessary changes and waiting times.

Comfort and Privacy

Passengers enjoy a comfortable environment suitable for relaxation or work.

Flexible Scheduling

Transfers operate according to passenger requirements rather than fixed public transport timetables.

Fixed Pricing

Passengers know the cost before travelling.


Private Hire Vehicles vs Traditional Taxis

Many travellers are unfamiliar with the differences between private hire vehicles and taxis.

Traditional TaxiPrivate Hire Vehicle
Can be hailed on the streetMust be pre-booked
Meter-based faresFixed quotations
Limited vehicle choiceWide range of vehicles
Availability variesAdvanced booking available
Often city focusedLong-distance specialists

Private hire vehicles are particularly suitable for airport transfers and pre-arranged journeys.


Executive Chauffeur Services

In addition to standard private hire services, Heathrow Gatwick Cars offers executive chauffeur transportation.

Ideal for:

  • Business travellers.
  • Corporate roadshows.
  • VIP airport transfers.
  • Conferences.
  • Events.
  • Hotel transportation.

Professional chauffeurs provide a higher level of service focused on discretion, reliability and comfort.


Corporate Travel Solutions

Businesses require dependable transportation services that reflect their professional standards.

Our corporate services include:

  • Executive airport transfers.
  • Business meetings.
  • Conference transport.
  • Client transportation.
  • Long-distance travel.

Corporate accounts can benefit from streamlined booking processes and dedicated support.


Cruise Port Transfers

We provide transportation to and from major UK cruise terminals including:

  • Southampton.
  • Dover.
  • Portsmouth.
  • Tilbury.
  • Harwich.

These services are particularly popular among international visitors arriving through London’s airports.


Our Vehicle Fleet

A diverse fleet allows us to accommodate varying passenger requirements.

Saloon Cars

Suitable for individual travellers and couples.

Estate Cars

Additional luggage capacity for airport journeys.

MPVs

Ideal for families and small groups.

Executive Vehicles

Premium travel experience for business clients.

Mercedes V-Class

Luxury transport for larger groups requiring additional comfort.


Why Passengers Choose Heathrow Gatwick Cars

Fixed Fares

Transparent pricing without unexpected costs.

Professional Drivers

Experienced, courteous and knowledgeable.

Flight Monitoring

Real-time flight tracking.

Meet and Greet

Professional airport arrival service.

24-Hour Availability

Transfers available day and night.

Reliable Service

Focused on punctuality and customer satisfaction.


Frequently Asked Questions

What does TPH stand for?

TPH stands for Taxi and Private Hire, the division responsible for regulating private hire services in London.

What is a private hire vehicle?

A private hire vehicle is a licensed vehicle that must be booked through a licensed operator before travel.

Are airport transfers available 24 hours a day?

Yes, Heathrow Gatwick Cars operates around the clock.

Can I pre-book an airport transfer?

Yes. Advanced booking is recommended.

Do you monitor flights?

Yes. We monitor flights to help manage collection times.

Are fares fixed?

Yes. Quotations are provided before travel.

Do you provide executive vehicles?

Yes. Executive and chauffeur vehicles are available.

Do you provide long-distance journeys?

Yes. We offer transfers throughout the UK.


Book a Licensed Private Hire Airport Transfer Today

Whether you require a Heathrow Airport transfer, Gatwick Airport taxi, executive chauffeur service or airport-to-airport transportation, Heathrow Gatwick Cars is committed to providing safe, professional and reliable travel solutions.

Contact our team today to obtain a quotation and discover why passengers continue to choose Heathrow Gatwick Cars for private hire and airport transfer services throughout London and the United Kingdom.