I only mentioned Uber because it's convenient. When you're tired, cold and don't know where you are exactly or have no cash on hand, it's hard to call for a cab. But there's a truckload of properly licensed, non-controversial cab companies in London. Black cabs still are the best in my opinion because the drivers actually know their stuff. And
it feels a bit more like London being in a black cab, if you don't mind paying a little bit extra. But from personal experience, avoid taking them if you're heading somewhere that is heavily congested, I paid £60 a couple of months for a journey that only costs me on average ££20 because of traffic. Black cabs are serious business.
Well there's been quite a few strikes this year because of the 24/7 weekend tube service thing, there's bound to be some more before they all come to an agreement
We get 2-5 strikes a year
Also, expect tube and bus fares to go up during the first week of each year
I'm still alive and fine, as long as you keep to yourself no one will bother you. 10 years now living here and I've only been in 3 confrontations while out.
In terms of weekend night-life, you can't do wrong if you're anywhere in Soho.