Charing Cross and the West End
Charing Cross sits on the Strand, next to Trafalgar Square. It is the terminus for Southeastern trains to south-east London and Kent, including Tunbridge Wells, Hastings and the Kent coast. It is also a handy drop-off point for the West End theatres, the National Gallery and Covent Garden.
From Richmond, the train usually means a change. A Richmond to Charing Cross taxi takes you straight there, whether you are catching a train or going to a show.
Journey time and route
Allow 40–60 minutes. A typical route runs east along the A205 through East Sheen and Putney, over the river, through Chelsea and along the Embankment to the Strand. Some drivers use routes south of the river and cross at Westminster or Waterloo Bridge.
Charing Cross is in the heart of the Congestion Charge zone. During charging hours, the charge may apply. Your quote shows how it is handled.
The West End is busy at almost any time, but early evening before shows start and late night when they finish are especially slow.
Drop-off and pick-up
The Strand and the streets around the station are busy, with limited places to stop. The driver will use the closest permitted point. If you are being picked up:
- Give your train arrival time, or the time your show finishes.
- Agree a meeting point, such as a named side street, rather than the Strand itself.
- Keep your phone on so the driver can tell you where they are.
Evenings out
A popular booking is a pick-up from home in Richmond, a drop-off near Charing Cross for dinner or a theatre, and a return trip at the end of the night. Book both journeys at once and say roughly when you expect to finish. If the show runs late, call us.
Vehicle choice
A saloon suits most trips. For groups going to a show together, an MPV seats up to six. See our 6 seater taxi page.
Nearby stations
Charing Cross is close to Waterloo, just across the river, and London Bridge to the east. Some Southeastern trains call at both. Check your ticket to see which station suits you best.
Hotel guests
If you are staying at a hotel in central London and want to visit Richmond, Kew Gardens or Hampton Court, we can arrange that too. See our hotel transfer taxi page.
From around the area
Charing Cross trips are popular from Barnes, East Sheen and Richmond town centre. From Hampton, allow longer.
