Take a stroll through central London and you might stumble upon these little, ornate green shelters. Some offer the chance to grab a coffee or a quick bite to eat, and are located in Russell Square, the Embankment and just off Oxford Street.
The tradition dates back to 1875 when Captain George C Armstrong was unable to catch a taxi on a stormy night because all the drivers had gone to a local pub. Today’s black cabs were horse-drawn carriages in the 1800s, so during periods of inclement weather many chose this option rather than brave the elements
To counter this, he started a fund to have shelters built for taxi drivers. These could strictly not serve alcohol, but gave the taxi drivers the chance to get a hot meal and drink.
READ MORE: Hidden garden in bombed-out church ruins near London Bridge is one of the city’s best-kept secrets
According to Living London History, the first one grew up in St John’s Wood and it was actually movable. The methods then changed, as architect Maximillian Clarke came up with the elegant design seen today. By 1914 some 61 tenements had sprung up across London, all with the distinctive green colour.
They are equipped with small kitchens, as the inside can accommodate approximately 10-13 taxis. Card games and gambling are also prohibited within them. The early 20th century proved to be the golden age of cabs for London cabs, as many cabs went off to fight in the First World War which restricted trade, while quite a few cabs were damaged by bombing campaigns in the Second World War.
Among those intrigued by the concept was world-renowned chef Anthony Bourdain, who stopped for breakfast at a Chelsea tenement on his way to Heathrow Airport. They are traditionally located in popular areas near cab sites, and some are still open to taxis today seeking shelter. Other places where you’ll find cabs include Grosvenor Gardens, St George’s Square and Wellington Place near Regent’s Park.
All 13 huts for cabins are now Grade II listed after a final hut in St John’s Wood was granted heritage protection in April this year.
Get the biggest stories from across London straight to your inbox. Subscribe to ‘s The 12 HERE for the 12 biggest stories every day.
