Egerton House Hotel at Discount Rates

Egerton House Hotel at Discount Rates

Have you seen those green sheds London taxi drivers use?

You may have seen the green garden shed-like buildings in London and wondered what they are. These are cabbie shelters for London's Black Cab Drivers and inside they can get a hot drink and a freshly cooked meal at a very reasonable rate.London Cabbie Shelters History Back in 1875, Captain George Armstrong, an ex-soldier and editor of The Globe newspaper, wanted to hail a Hansom cab (horse and two-wheel cart) and while there were plenty of vehicles to be seen there were no drivers. He discovered the drivers keeping warm in a local pub which, of course, also meant they were drinking.

Armstrong took a typically Victorian approach and encouraged reform and a better solution to drunken cabbies. Along with the 7th Earl of Shaftesbury, and other philanthropists, they set up the Cabman's Shelter Fund. Between 1875 and 1914 the Fund build about 60 shelters in London to provide shelter from the weather and "wholesome refreshments" (no alcohol). Each shelter had an attendant who received no wage but was paid by selling food and drink. They could also charge half-a-penny to cook any food brought in by the cabbie.The first shelter opened in 1875 in Acacia Avenue, St. John’s Wood close to Captain Armstrong's home.

The Shelters As the shelters are on the public highway, the police specified that each shelter could be no larger than a horse and four-wheel cart. Yet even though the structures are small each has a kitchen and seating, with tables, for about 12 drivers.There are railings around the shelters that were intended for the tethering of the Hansom cab's horses. Some of these can still be seen today.Another typically Victorian approach towards bettering oneself, the shelters always had a selection of books and newspapers, and gambling was forbidden. Even today, there is always a selection of newspapers to read to ensure the drivers are up-to-date with the day's news when chatting to 'a fare' later.

While there are 21,000 black cab drivers on the streets of London just 13 shelters have survived. Some were lost during bombing in WWII and others were removed for street improvements for the larger vehicles on the road today. The Cabmen's Shelter Fund look after the Grade II listed buildings. A grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund also ensures their place in history is recorded.

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