London’s Pedicabs: A Guide to the City’s Most Unconventional Rides
In the heart of London’s bustling streets, a new way to travel has taken hold—pedicabs. Known for their colorful designs, open-air seats, and eco-friendly vibes, pedicabs (or cycle rickshaws) have become a unique way to explore the city. Whether you’re looking for a quirky sightseeing experience, a late-night lift, or just a fun spin around town, hopping into a pedicab offers a memorable adventure. Here’s everything you need to know about London’s pedicabs, from what they are to the best times to ride and tips for making the most of the experience.
What Are Pedicabs?
A pedicab is essentially a three-wheeled, human-powered rickshaw with a cozy seating area for passengers. Think of it as a mini chariot pulled by a cyclist, who doubles as your driver and guide. Pedicabs are common in tourist-heavy areas like Covent Garden, Soho, and the West End, where they provide an up-close, open-air experience as you whiz past some of London’s most famous landmarks.
NB: London’s pedicabs are also sometime known as Tuk-Tuks, although this is strictly wrong as tuk-tuks are motor powered modes of transport, whereas London’s pedicabs are cycle powered.
Why Choose a Pedicab?
Pedicabs are a refreshing, eco-friendly alternative to taxis and buses, and they allow for an intimate and unique way to see the sights. Here’s why they’re worth a try:
- Eco-Friendly Travel: Pedicabs run solely on pedal power, which means zero emissions and a smaller carbon footprint than traditional transport.
- Flexible Routes: Pedicab drivers are typically locals with an in-depth knowledge of the city, so they know all the shortcuts and can take you on scenic detours or even lesser-known spots.
- Traffic-Beating Convenience: London’s roads can be tricky, but the nimble pedicab can dodge heavy traffic and navigate through narrow lanes, meaning you’ll often arrive faster than you would in a taxi.
- Great for Night Owls: Pedicabs often operate until the early hours, especially in entertainment districts like Soho and Covent Garden, making them perfect for a fun post-theatre ride or a lift between nightlife hotspots.
Popular Pedicab Tours in London
While some pedicabs operate on a flag-down basis, others offer organized tours with themed experiences. Here are a few pedicab tours to check out:
1. West End Theatrical Tour
This tour takes you through London’s West End, showcasing its legendary theaters, dazzling marquee lights, and insider stories. Your pedicab driver might even share stories of the West End’s most iconic shows and famous actors who have graced the stages of theaters like the Lyceum, the Apollo, and the London Palladium.
- Cost: Usually starts around £20 for a 30-minute tour.
2. Historic London Tour
History buffs will love a pedicab tour through historic London, stopping by landmarks like Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. With the driver’s expert knowledge, you’ll hear fascinating facts and anecdotes, making it the perfect mix of history lesson and joyride.
- Cost: Prices typically range from £30-£50 for an hour.
3. Nightlife and Pub Crawl Tour
If you’re up for a night out, why not do it in style? A pedicab pub crawl takes you through London’s lively nightlife districts, with stops at classic pubs, hidden speakeasies, and famous bars. Your driver will wait outside while you grab a pint, then whisk you off to the next stop. With its unique, open-air experience, this tour is perfect for friends looking to see the nightlife up close.
- Cost: Around £50 per hour, drinks not included.
4. Shopping Spree Tour
Why shop till you drop when you can shop till you hop? A pedicab shopping tour is a relaxed way to hit all the best boutiques and iconic department stores, from Harrods to Liberty and beyond. It’s an especially great option for out-of-town visitors who want to cover more ground without trekking through the crowds.
- Cost: Prices vary, usually around £30-£60 per hour.
When to Catch a Pedicab
You’ll typically find pedicabs operating in central London during peak times: late afternoons, evenings, and weekends. They’re particularly abundant around Soho, Covent Garden, Leicester Square, and Oxford Street. During summer, the warmer weather and longer days make pedicabs especially popular, so you may even see some tricked out with fairy lights and bright colors to attract passengers.
How Much Do London’s Pedicabs Cost?
Unlike taxis, pedicabs don’t have regulated fares in London, which can sometimes lead to confusion or high prices for unwitting tourists. It’s a good idea to negotiate the fare with your driver before you set off, so there are no surprises at the end of the ride. Costs generally range from £10 to £20 for a quick 10-15 minute journey, but longer tours or rides during peak times (like weekend nights) can be more.
Are Pedicabs Safe?
Yes, pedicabs are generally safe, as they’re required to adhere to London’s cycling rules. Many drivers are well-versed in navigating traffic, especially in busy areas. However, since pedicabs are not legally bound by the same safety standards as taxis, it’s wise to keep personal belongings secure and be mindful of your surroundings.
Tips for a Great Pedicab Experience
- Agree on a Fare: Always negotiate the price before you start your journey to avoid surprises.
- Bring Cash: Some drivers accept cards, but cash is often preferred, and having smaller notes can make things simpler.
- Dress Warmly: Even on mild days, an open-air ride can feel chilly, so bring a jacket if you’re riding at night.
- Request a Scenic Route: If you have a particular landmark or neighborhood in mind, don’t hesitate to ask the driver to adjust the route. Many are more than happy to accommodate.
- Consider Tipping: Many pedicab drivers rely on tips, especially if they’ve given you a great tour. A small tip is a thoughtful gesture to end your ride.
The Environmental Side of Pedicabs
In a world increasingly focused on sustainable travel, pedicabs are a breath of fresh air. Unlike taxis and buses, they’re powered by human energy, meaning zero emissions. London’s congestion zones and air quality targets make eco-friendly travel options like pedicabs a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. So, by choosing a pedicab, you’re helping to keep the city’s air a little cleaner!
London’s pedicabs offer an experience unlike any other mode of transport. Whether you’re a local looking for a fun way to get around or a tourist wanting to see the city with a twist, a pedicab is an affordable, eco-friendly, and undeniably quirky option. So next time you’re in central London and feeling adventurous, hop into one of these colourful cabs—you’re bound to see the city from a whole new perspective!
***A guide to London’s pedicabs, rickshaws and tuk-tuks.
