Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) have been a major source of contention for Londoners over the past couple of years. For Uber drivers, LTNs simply mean wasted time, as many don't want to squander precious minutes literally driving round the houses. 'Uber's navigation doesn't know where the LTNs are,' Grant says.

Getting an Uber in London in 2026 can be challenging due to a combination of increased demand, a shortage of drivers, and stricter licensing regulations. Following the pandemic, many drivers moved to more stable delivery jobs or left the city entirely due to the rising cost of living and high fuel prices. Furthermore, Uber's re-licensing agreements with Transport for London (TfL) have led to more rigorous background checks and vehicle standards, which can slow the influx of new drivers. Drivers are also becoming more selective about the trips they accept; with the introduction of "Upfront Pricing," many will cancel or ignore low-fare requests if they believe a different app, like Bolt or Free Now, is offering a higher "Surge" rate in a nearby area. Traffic congestion and the expansion of Low Emission Zones also mean that a driver might spend 30 minutes reaching a passenger for a 10-minute trip, making many requests financially unattractive. This "Supply-Demand Gap" is most noticeable during peak hours, rainy weather, or on weekend nights when the city's nightlife creates a massive surge in ride requests.