London has had taxis since the early 1900s, but the characteristic "black cab” first appeared in the 1940s. No visitor to London can truly say they have experienced Britain’s capital until they have ridden in one.

Black cabs are a familiar sight in many large cities across the UK and are gradually becoming an international vehicle.

There is no law that says London’s taxis must be black – in fact from Edwardian times when motor cabs first appeared, they could be found in many different colours. They are still seen in many different colours to this day.

This book tells the story of these special vehicles, from before the time when they first appeared, up to the present day and why and how they came to have their distinctive layout.