Four Generations of London Black Cab Drivers

Dave Goulding, 71, and his four sons are all licensed Hackney carriage drivers in London. The family tradition is set to continue with Billy’s 19-year-old son Harrison, who plans to begin studying the Knowledge.

Mr Goulding, whose mother Shirley, 93, worked in a cab shelter until her 80s, began his career in Brixton Market before earning his licence at 30. He said that working 18-hour days helped him support his four sons, who now all drive black cabs across the capital more than 40 years later.

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Family Network

The Goulding family uses a dedicated group chat to share information about routes, traffic, and potential trouble spots. Ronnie Goulding described how the family acts as a real-time information network, relaying details such as when to head to Paddington station if the Heathrow Express is not running.

Mr Goulding recalled picking up the actor Peter Cushing, who played Dracula, one rainy night. He remembered thinking the actor looked frightening in the mirror and made a joke about horrors as Mr Cushing exited the vehicle.

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Future of the Trade

Despite the iconic status of black cabs, the number of licensed drivers has fallen. The Centre for London think-tank reported last year that only 16,000 drivers remained, projecting that none would be left by 2045. Many potential drivers are deterred by the Knowledge, a gruelling test of London’s streets that can take three to four years to complete.

Mr Goulding believes the numbers will stabilise, expecting a "skeleton crew" to remain to serve tourist demand. He stated that taxis are now used by a broad range of people, not just those in high-paying jobs, including old people, young people, and tourists.

Harrison Goulding plans to study the Knowledge to follow his family's tradition and to learn London more deeply, mentioning his interest in learning locations near Arsenal Football Club.