January in York is a bit of a slog, isn’t it? The Christmas lights have come down, the excitement of New Year’s Eve has faded, and suddenly, it’s back to early morning lectures, cold winds whipping down Heslington Road, and buses that seem to disappear just when you need them most. If you’re a student at the University of York or York St John University, you’ll know exactly what I mean. Getting around in the winter months isn’t always easy, but that’s where taxis come in. Whether you need a warm and reliable ride to campus for a 9 am lecture or a safe trip home after a late night at The Stone Roses Bar, Drive Taxis has got you covered.

Early Mornings and Late Nights: The Struggles of Student Travel in York

January mornings are brutal. It’s dark, it’s freezing, and if you’re living off-campus in areas like Fulford, Osbaldwick, or Tang Hall, you’re probably questioning every life decision that led you to an early morning start. Walking to campus might seem like a good idea in September, but once the frost kicks in and the wind feels like it’s slicing through you, the reality is far less appealing. Then there’s the issue of public transport. The number 66 and 67 buses are packed with students heading to campus, and if you’re unlucky, you might end up waiting in the cold as full buses pass you by. A taxi solves all of that. A quick, hassle-free ride from your doorstep to your lecture hall means you can hit snooze a few extra times and still make it to class on time.

Late nights are another story. Maybe you’ve been at the library cramming for exams, or you’ve just finished a long shift at one of the city’s many student-friendly bars. Perhaps you’ve had a night out on Micklegate, grabbing drinks at Evil Eye, or dancing until late at Flares. Walking home might not feel safe, especially if you live in quieter areas like Badger Hill or Hull Road. Buses aren’t as frequent late at night, and standing in the cold waiting for one isn’t ideal. Drive Taxis offers a safe, quick, and affordable way to get home without the stress.

Ride-Sharing: The Budget-Friendly Option for Students

We get it—student life isn’t cheap. Rent, textbooks, nights out, and the occasional trip to the campus Greggs all add up. That’s why ride-sharing is one of the best options for getting around York in winter without breaking the bank. If you and your housemates or coursemates have an early lecture at the same time, splitting a taxi fare makes it just as cost-effective as a bus ticket but without the hassle. Heading home after a night out? Instead of taking the risk of walking alone or waiting for an Uber surge to die down, grab a taxi with a couple of mates and split the cost.

Drive Taxis has larger vehicles available for groups, meaning you can travel together safely and affordably. Whether you’re in a group of three or six, ride-sharing helps you save money while ensuring you get home quickly and safely.

Student Discounts: Making Taxis More Affordable

One of the biggest misconceptions about taxis is that they’re expensive. In reality, when you factor in comfort, convenience, and safety—especially in the winter months—the cost is well worth it. At Drive Taxis, we understand that students need affordable transport options, which is why we offer student-friendly fares. Keep an eye out for promotions, especially in January when travel demand is higher due to bad weather. Some of the best times to take advantage of taxi services include:

• Early morning lectures when you’ve overslept and need to get across town fast.
• Group travel when you and your friends are heading to the same place and can split the fare.
• Late-night trips home when safety is your top priority.
• Exam season when you need to get to campus stress-free without worrying about delays.

Cold Weather Travel: Why a Taxi is the Smart Choice in January

If you’ve ever tried cycling through York in winter, you’ll know it’s not for the faint-hearted. The roads can be icy, the rain is relentless, and the wind coming off the River Ouse can make even the shortest journey feel like an expedition. Walking isn’t much better. Ever slipped on the cobbles in the Shambles or nearly fallen over on a frozen pavement near Clifford’s Tower? It happens more often than you’d think. Public transport is fine when everything runs on time, but delays are common in bad weather. Buses get stuck in traffic, and train cancellations aren’t unheard of, especially if you’re heading further afield for weekend trips.

A taxi eliminates all those issues. You don’t have to worry about slipping on ice, standing in the cold, or trying to balance a bike on a windy day. Instead, you can hop in a warm car, get dropped off exactly where you need to be, and arrive on time without the usual stress.

Safety First: Why Students Should Choose a Trusted Taxi Firm

York is a relatively safe city, but like any university town, it’s important to take precautions—especially when travelling alone at night. Walking back to student accommodation in areas like Heworth or Bishopthorpe after dark isn’t always the best idea. Even in busier spots like Walmgate or Layerthorpe, it’s worth thinking twice before wandering home alone.

Drive Taxis prioritises student safety. With professionally licensed drivers, well-maintained vehicles, and fair pricing, we ensure that you’re in safe hands. Unlike random lift offers from strangers or unlicensed taxis, a professional service means you always know who’s driving you. Key safety tips for students using taxis include:

• Pre-booking your ride to avoid waiting in the cold.
• Checking the taxi details before getting in to make sure it’s a licensed vehicle.
• Sharing your ride details with a friend, especially if you’re travelling alone.
• Using well-lit pickup points and avoiding isolated areas.

Where Can You Get a Taxi in York?

If you’re in town, you’ll find taxi ranks in convenient locations, including:

• York Train Station – perfect for students arriving back after the holidays.
• Parliament Street – ideal for those in the city centre after a night out.
• Piccadilly – close to student accommodation and key lecture buildings.
• Campus West and East – a reliable option for University of York students heading off-campus.

You can also book a taxi in advance through the Drive Taxis website, making it even easier to plan your journey.

Make January Travel Easy with Drive Taxis

Winter in York doesn’t have to mean struggling with unreliable transport, freezing cold walks, or expensive rides. Whether you need a quick lift to a lecture, a safe way home after a night out, or a budget-friendly ride-sharing option, Drive Taxis is here to help. January is tough enough without battling the elements every time you need to get somewhere. So next time you find yourself dreading the walk to campus or waiting ages for a bus, remember—there’s a warm, safe taxi just around the corner, ready to make student life that little bit easier.