Tipping in the United Kingdom: The United Kingdom Tipping Guide

Tipping in the United Kingdom isn’t a standard practice, so knowing how much to tip can be confusing. This United Kingdom tipping guide will help you know how much to tip for great service.

Tipping in the United Kingdom

Tipping in the United Kingdom is not nearly as common as it is across the pond, but it does still happen in some places. For instance, tipping is customary at high-end hotels and restaurants that don’t include a service charge in the final bill. It is, however, by no means an obligation. Most employees earn a reasonable wage and are not dependent on tips. Let the quality of service decide if you want to leave a little extra or not.

Though tipping may not be a standard practice, there are general guidelines that you can use to help ensure a stress-free vacation. This United Kingdom tipping guide will help you navigate when/where you can leave a little extra for great service.

The United Kingdom Tipping Guide

Café Server: There is no need to tip for counter service.

Restaurant Server: Check the bill before deciding if/what to tip. A “service charge” or “optional charge” may already be included in the final cost and should cover the gratuity. If there isn’t a charge or it doesn’t go directly to the server, a 10 percent tip is reasonable.

Bartender: A tip isn’t expected at a bar or pub, but feel free to leave a few coins if service was stellar.

Tour Guides: A tip of £2 to £4 per person per day is considered appropriate, but you can tip more if the tour exceeded expectations. No need to tip more than 10 percent.

Taxis: A good rule of thumb is to round up to the nearest pound, but is by no means an obligation.

Doorman: Tip £1 when a doorman helps hail a cab.

Bellhop: It is considerate to tip £1 to £2 per bag, depending on size, and £5 per bag in a 5-star hotel.

Housecleaning: Leave a few pounds for a well-maintained room during your stay.

Concierge: A tip is not expected, but feel free to show your appreciation with £1 or £2 for a special recommendation or hard-to-get reservation.

Stylist: Tipping isn’t expected, but a few pounds for great service is always appreciated.

Spa Service Provider: Tipping isn’t expected, but a few pounds for great service is always appreciated.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Tipping: The Ultimate Guide to Tipping for Travelers
• Does the Hotel Maid Look Through Your Stuff?
• Hotel Tipping—Do You or Don’t You?