London Black Taxi Model

<p>This collectible souvenir pays tribute to the London black taxi, complete with the British Museum logo and a scene of iconic London buildings.<br /> <br /> The famous 'black cab' is universally recognised as a symbol of London. It is characterised by its hooded design and 25ft turning circle, which means it can 'turn on a sixpence' - a feature that as initially designed because of the small roundabout entrance of the famed Savoy Hotel (one of London's trademarks). Black cab drivers have to pass a test called The Knowledge to demonstrate that they have an intimate knowledge of the geography of London streets and important buildings.<br /> <br /> There were private hire vehicles in London as early as the 17th century, but these came in the form of horse-drawn carriages. The first car versions, or 'hackney-carriages' as they are known, were introduced in the 1880s, and their design has remained a classic London symbol. From 1930 onwards, all London black taxis have been built by British manufacturers; the best known among these are the FX3 and FX4 from Austin (as shown here).<br /> <br /> This British-Museum branded model measures 12cm x 5cm x 4cm and comes in a gift box.</p>

An exclusively-designed collectible souvenir paying tribute to the London black taxi, and featuring the British Museum logo and a scene of London's iconic skyline.

Packaged in a gift-box, this taxi replica makes a perfect souvenir of both the British Museum and of London's cultural history. 

About London's taxis: 

The famous 'black cab' is universally recognised as a symbol of London. It is characterised by its hooded design and ability to 'turn on a sixpence' - its 25ft turning circle - a feature that was initially designed to manoeuvre around the small roundabout entrance of the famed Savoy Hotel. Black cab drivers have to pass a test called 'The Knowledge' to demonstrate that they have an intimate awareness of the geography of London's streets and important buildings.

The first private hire cars, or 'hackney-carriages' as they were known, were introduced in the 1880s, and their design has remained a classic London symbol. From 1930 onwards, all London black taxis were built by British manufacturers; the best known among these are the Austin FX3 and FX4 (as shown here).

Packaged in a gift-box, this replica makes a perfect addition to any collection of classic vehicles or London memorabilia.