Hello,
Do Uber or Lyft operate in the UK currently? Is there a comparable app instead? I’m specifically looking for an app based taxi service in the Cotswolds, St. Ives and Cardiff. Traveling by train and bus but may occasionally want a taxi for some short stints in these areas
Thanks for any information you can provide!
Katie, I'm assuming you saw FreeNow (I responded to your other post).
One way of checking to see if there are app-based taxi services is to go to Google maps, put in your destination and where you will be picking it up (I just do a dummy request), then request directions using the Public Transportation option, and when the responses pop up, scroll down to the bottom and you will see if there are any Uber, Lyft, FreeNow and other taxi/car options. It's a good way of seeing what is out there.
Lyft is a no as far as I know - I don't think they have even trialled it. Perhaps the extensive transport network and more compact nature of the country, and the hostility Uber has had may be why.
Uber is extensive in larger areas and then gets a bit patchy. Cardiff certainly has it but I would be very doubtful about St. Ives (if you mean Cornwall) or the Cotswolds. But you will find regular taxis if you need them.
There isn’t anything like this available in Cornwall or the Cotswolds. These are rural areas with a small population and where people drive everywhere. The need for taxis is too small to make an app viable.
Thanks Mardee! I learn so much from you. I appreciate your willingness to help the newbies :)
I didn’t know about the google maps trick so I tried it out. I found that there’s a bit of a caveat. Checking London from here in California it did not work on my iPad. iPhone was fine. So don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t work on your tablet or laptop.
