Tipping in the UK
GBPLast reviewed · Jul 2026
Many sit-down restaurants add a discretionary 10-12.5% service charge, so read the bill before adding more. Extra cash is optional when no charge appears. In pubs and bars, rounding up is enough unless staff serve you at the table.
Tipping customaryQuick answer
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 the UK
•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
More tipping 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
Travel essentials
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