Tipping in London: A Complete Guide for Travelers
If you’re planning a trip to London, you might be wondering how tipping works in the UK. Unlike in the US, tipping in London isn’t mandatory—but it’s still appreciated when service exceeds expectations. Understanding local customs helps you avoid awkward moments and ensures your gesture is both appropriate and appreciated.
For North American travelers used to 20% restaurant tips or hotel porters expecting cash at every turn, London’s tipping etiquette can feel refreshingly simple. Let’s break down when, where, and how much to tip across different situations.
Traveler Quick Reference Table: When & How Much to Tip in London
| Service Type | Is Tipping Expected? | Typical Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurants (table service) | Sometimes (check bill) | 10–12.5% if service charge not included | Check for “service charge” before tipping |
| Cafés / Quick service | No | Round up small change | Optional gesture |
| Pubs / Bars | Rare | “Buy a drink” for bartender | Not customary |
| Hotels – Porters | Yes (luxury hotels) | £1–£2 per bag | Optional in smaller hotels |
| Hotels – Housekeeping | Optional | £2–£5 per night | Leave at end of stay |
| Concierge services | Optional | £5–£10 | For special arrangements |
| Taxis / Ride shares | Optional | Round up or add 10% | Never required |
| Private guides / Drivers | Yes | 10–15% | For excellent service |
| Group or “free” walking tours | Yes | £5–£20 per person | Based on satisfaction |
| Attractions / Museums / Shops | No | None | Not part of UK culture |
Do You Need to Tip in London?
In short: tipping in London is optional but customary in certain settings. Service staff are paid higher base wages than in the US, so gratuities are viewed as a thank-you rather than a necessity. Most Londoners tip moderately—typically 10–12.5% at restaurants or rounding up elsewhere.
Tipping at Restaurants
If you’re dining out in London, check your bill before leaving a tip. Many restaurants automatically include a “service charge” of 12.5%, especially in central London or higher-end venues.
- If service charge is included: No additional tip is needed—unless the experience was exceptional.
- If not included: A 10–12% tip is standard.
- Cash vs. card: You can add it to your card payment or leave cash. Both are common.
For casual dining, cafés, or pubs serving food at the counter, tipping isn’t expected, though leaving small change or rounding up is appreciated.
Tipping in Pubs and Bars
At London pubs, tipping isn’t part of the culture. You’ll often order directly at the bar, and bartenders don’t expect tips. If you do want to show appreciation, you can say “and one for yourself” when paying for your drink—meaning you’d like to buy the bartender a drink (they’ll usually add the value to the till). It’s a friendly local gesture rather than a norm.
Tipping in Hotels
At hotels, tipping is more flexible and depends on service level:
- Porters: £1–£2 per bag is appreciated at luxury hotels.
- Housekeeping: £2–£5 per night, especially for longer stays.
- Concierge: £5–£10 for arranging reservations or special services.
In boutique or smaller hotels, tipping may be less expected—but excellent service always deserves recognition.
Tipping in Taxis and Ride Shares
For London black cabs and ride apps like Uber or Bolt:
Taxis: Round up to the nearest pound or add 10% if the service was great or the driver helped with luggage.
Uber/Bolt: Tips are optional and handled in-app. Most Londoners add £1–£2 for good service.
Drivers never expect a large tip, so don’t feel pressured—simple rounding up is perfectly polite.
Tipping for Tours and Experiences
If you’re joining a guided tour, tipping is customary but modest:
- Private driver or guide: 10–15% is appreciated for personalized service.
- Group walking or day tours: £5–£10 per person is generous.
- Free walking tours: The guides rely entirely on tips—£10–£20 per person is appropriate if you enjoyed it.
Tipping reflects gratitude rather than obligation, so base it on your experience.
When Not to Tip in London
Tipping isn’t expected in the following situations:
- Fast food or grab-and-go cafés
- Retail stores
- Public transport (buses, trains, Tube)
- Museums and attractions
British culture values politeness over formality so a warm “thank you” often goes just as far as a cash tip.
FAQ About Tipping in London
Do I need to tip if a service charge is already added?
No. The 12.5% service charge covers gratuity. You can still leave extra if service was exceptional, but it’s not expected.
Is tipping expected in London taxis?
Not required, but rounding up the fare or adding 10% for helpful service is polite.
Should I tip in pubs?
No, tipping at pubs isn’t customary. If you really want to, offer to buy the bartender a drink.
Can I tip with my credit card?
Yes. Many restaurants and hotels allow you to add a tip when paying by card. Just confirm whether the staff receive card tips directly.
Do Londoners tip as much as Americans?
Not typically. UK tipping culture is more reserved—10–12% at restaurants is standard, and many other services don’t require tipping at all.
Final Thoughts
Tipping in London is simple once you understand local customs. Most travelers find it refreshingly straightforward compared to North America. A small token of appreciation—rather than a large percentage—is the norm.
When in doubt, remember this: tip only when you feel it’s deserved, and never feel obligated. British service workers appreciate the gesture, but even more so, they appreciate your courtesy and good manners.
So relax, enjoy your time in London, and know you’re tipping just the right amount.
