Tipping in United Kingdom
AppreciatedRestaurants: 10–12.5% if no service chargeCurrency: GBP
In the UK, 10–12.5% is standard at sit-down restaurants, but many add a discretionary service charge of 12.5% to the bill. If it is there, you don't need to tip more. Pubs don't expect tips for drinks at the bar.
Tip£0.00
- Total with tip
- £0.00
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
10
Within the 0–12.5% range in United Kingdom.
How much to tip in United Kingdom, by service
| Service | Custom |
|---|---|
| Restaurant, no service charge | 10–12.5% |
| Restaurant with service charge | Nothing extra |
| Pub (ordering at the bar) | No tip; "and one for yourself" is an old custom |
| Black cab or minicab | Round up or 10% |
| Hairdresser | 10% |
| Hotel porter | £1–2 per bag |
Local know-how
- The Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023 requires employers in England, Scotland and Wales to pass all tips and service charges to staff.
- Service charges are discretionary: you can ask to have one removed if service was poor.
Questions people ask
Is the service charge mandatory in the UK?
No. It is discretionary, and you can ask for it to be removed, although most people pay it.
Do you tip at a pub?
Not for drinks at the bar. For table-service meals in a gastropub, 10% is common.