UK Tipping Culture: Should I Leave a Tip, When and How Much?
Many travellers visiting the UK wonder if it is necessary to leave a tip, and if so, how much to tip in various situations. Unlike some countries where tipping is expected as a significant part of a worker's income, the UK has a more relaxed approach. However, there are certain rules that will help you navigate when and how much to tip.
Tipping in Restaurants and Cafés
In restaurants, tipping is fairly common, but not required. If you have received good service, it's customary to leave 10-15% of the total bill. In some cases, particularly in London and other larger cities, a “service charge” (typically 10-12.5%) is already included in the bill. Always check the bill before you tip. If the service was poor or the service charge is already included, an additional tip is not necessary.
In casual dining spots or cafés where you order at the counter, tipping is less common, though some places may have a tip jar by the till. It's entirely optional to leave spare change.
Tipping in Pubs and Bars
Tipping is fairly uncommon in pubs and bars. Bartenders generally do not expect tips when you order drinks at the bar. However, if you have received particularly good service or are sitting at a table with waiter service, you may want to round up the bill or leave a small tip. Alternatively, you can offer to "buy the barman a drink" instead of tipping.
Tipping in Taxis
When it comes to taxis, it is not necessary to tip, but it is polite to at least round up the fare to the nearest pound. For longer journeys or good service you may want to leave around 10% of the total bill but this is not a rule.
Tipping in Hotels
In hotels, tipping is less structured but still appreciated. It's common to tip £1-2 per bag for porters and a small amount for housekeeping (around £2-5 per night), especially in higher-end hotels. For concierge services, tipping is less expected but appreciated for exceptional service.
Tipping for Hairdressers and Beauty Services
For hairdressers, beauty treatments, or spa services, tipping around 10% of the bill is common practice if you're satisfied with the service. It’s always optional, and no one will be offended if you don’t leave a tip.
Tipping on Guided Tours
If you're on a guided tour, particularly with a small group or private guide, a tip is expected for good service. A typical amount is £5-10 per person for a day tour. However, tipping is less common for free walking tours, though leaving a small contribution at the end is appreciated.
Should I tip in cash or by card?
An important aspect of tipping in the UK is the ability to tip in cash or by card. Most restaurants, cafes and bars now make it easy to tip by card, as payment terminals often have the option to add a tip before completing the transaction. This is especially handy if you don’t have cash.
However, not all places with tip by card will pass all the money directly to the staff. Sometimes they are shared between all the staff, and in some cases they may be retained by the employer, so if you want to make sure the tip goes to your waiter or bartender, it is better to tip in cash.
In taxis, hotels and smaller establishments, cash tips are more common, especially for employees such as doormen or housekeepers. In these situations, cash is the best option.
Final Thoughts
While tipping in the UK isn’t as deeply ingrained as in countries like the US, it is still appreciated in many service industries. The general rule is to tip for good service but never feel pressured to do so, especially if a service charge is already included in your bill.
If you're unsure whether or not to tip and how much, just remember that it's more of a thank you for good service than an obligation, and in most cases rounding up the bill is sufficient.