AL
Ride-Hailing · Premium PHV

Addison Lee

Britain's largest premium private-hire fleet — over 4,000 Ford Galaxy and Mercedes Vito vehicles, all driver-employed (not gig). 100% electric/hybrid by 2026.

Regulatory note: All ride-hailing in London — Uber, Bolt, FREE NOW, Wheely, Addison Lee, Gett — requires the operator and every driver to hold a Transport for London Private Hire Vehicle licence. Always book through the official app; never accept a kerbside hail from a PHV (only black cabs may be hailed).

Key facts

Operator
Addison Lee Ltd
TfL Licence
Active PHV operator (largest in UK)
Service tiers
Standard, Premier, Executive (S-Class), Hybrid
Coverage
All London + national point-to-point + airports
Payment
Card, account billing, Apple Pay
Fleet
4,000+ vehicles, fully employed drivers
App
Addison Lee — Premium Cars
Founded
1975, London

FAQs

Is Addison Lee better than Uber?

Addison Lee is more expensive (typically 30–60% above UberX) but employs its drivers directly, runs newer Ford Galaxy / Mercedes Vito vehicles, and offers fixed-price airport transfers. It's the default ride for many City of London firms and high-end hotels.

How much is Addison Lee from Heathrow to central London?

Fixed-price Heathrow to central London transfer is around £75–£95 in a Standard saloon (up to 4 passengers) and £110–£140 for a Premier (Mercedes E-Class). Includes meet-and-greet and 60-minute free wait for delayed flights.

Can I book Addison Lee in advance?

Yes — pre-book up to 12 months ahead via the app or website. Schedules with 'meet & greet' at airports, station collections, hourly chauffeur hire and multi-stop journeys are supported.

Does Addison Lee operate outside London?

Yes — UK-wide point-to-point bookings (London ↔ any city). Addison Lee also operates in New York and partners with chauffeur companies across 350 cities globally for its corporate clients.

Are Addison Lee drivers employees?

Yes — unusually for the PHV industry, Addison Lee drivers are employees with PAYE wages, holiday pay, pension contributions and a guaranteed minimum income. Vehicles are leased to drivers as part of the employment package.

Other London ride apps