Tipping in United Kingdom
GBPLast reviewed · Apr 2026
Tipping is optional in the United Kingdom. Many restaurants add a discretionary 10-12.5% service charge, so check the bill before tipping extra.
Tipping customaryMost common situations
Restaurant
Standard:10-15%
Exceptional:15%
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+Check the bill for a discretionary service charge first
+Counter or self-service does not expect the same tip as table service
−No extra tip is usually needed if service charge is already included
Bar
Standard:Round up
Exceptional:10%
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+Table service may justify around 10%
−Counter drinks usually do not need more than rounding up
Taxi
Standard:Round up
Exceptional:1-5 GBP
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+Luggage or a longer journey may justify more
−Short rides usually just round up
How to tip in United Kingdom
•Check the bill for a discretionary service charge
•Leave 10-15% only if service charge is not already included
•Cash or card both work for tips
Quick tips
A 10-12.5% discretionary service charge is common in sit-down restaurants
In Great Britain, service charges are legally meant to be shared fairly with staff
Pubs and bars usually just round up unless there is table service
Other situations (8)
DeliveryRound up
Hairdresser / Barber10%
Spa & Massage10%
Hotel Staff1-2 GBP
Tour guides10%
Valet Parking5 GBP
Airport Services1-2 GBP
Car Services / UberRound up
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Tipping questions in United Kingdom
Tipping Terms Glossary
- Service charge
- A mandatory fee added to the bill by the establishment, separate from optional tips.
- Round up
- To increase the total bill amount to the nearest convenient whole number or denomination.
- Exceptional service
- Service that exceeds standard expectations, often warranting a higher tip percentage or amount.
- Cash preferred
- A preference for cash tips over card tips, often because card tips may not reach staff directly.