Tipping in London

When visiting London, it’s important to understand the local customs, especially when it comes to tipping. While tipping isn’t compulsory in the UK, it is a common practice to show appreciation for good service in various settings, from restaurants to hotels. Knowing when and how much to tip can help you avoid awkward moments and ensure you’re following London’s tipping etiquette. In this guide, we’ll explore the tipping culture in London, including gratuity in restaurants, hotels, and taxis.

Tipping in Restaurants: A Guide to Gratuity

In London, tipping in restaurants is customary, but it’s not always expected. Here’s what you need to know:

• Service Charge: Many restaurants in London will include a service charge (usually around 12.5%) on the bill. This service charge is treated as gratuity, so it’s important to check your bill before leaving any additional tip. If the service charge is already included, there’s no need to tip further unless you feel the service was exceptional.
• When to Tip: If there is no service charge added, it’s standard to leave a tip of about 10-15% of the total bill. If you’re particularly impressed with the service, feel free to tip more.
• Cash or Card: You can leave the tip in cash or ask to add it to the bill when paying by card. Some restaurants might even offer an option to add a tip via card payment at the till.

Tipping at Hotels: A Guide for Hotel Gratuity

When staying at hotels in London, tipping is not mandatory, but it is a kind gesture to acknowledge exceptional service. Here’s when to consider leaving a tip:

• Porters: If a porter helps with your luggage, a tip of £1-£2 per bag is appreciated. For larger or more difficult bags, consider tipping a bit more.
• Housekeeping: If you’re staying for a longer period or you’ve received excellent service from housekeeping, it’s a nice gesture to leave £1-£2 per night. This can be left in cash with a note indicating it’s for housekeeping.
• Concierge: If the concierge assists with booking tickets, making reservations, or providing helpful recommendations, consider offering a gratuity of £5-£10 for their service.
• Room Service: Room service orders often come with a service charge (typically 10-15%), but if the delivery was prompt and courteous, you might want to leave a small tip of £1-£3.

Tipping in Taxis and Ride Services

Tipping in taxis is not expected in London, but it’s common to round up the fare to the nearest pound or give a 10% tip for good service. For example, if your fare is £7.50, you can round it up to £8. If you’ve had a longer journey or the driver has provided extra assistance (e.g., helping with luggage), a tip of 10% is a nice gesture.

For ride-hailing services like Uber, tipping is also appreciated but not mandatory. If the service was great, you can leave a tip through the app, usually around 10%.

Gratuity in Pubs and Cafes

Tipping at pubs and cafes is not as common as in restaurants, but it’s always appreciated for good service. In casual settings like these:

• Pubs: It’s not necessary to tip in pubs when ordering at the bar, but if a waiter or waitress brings drinks to your table, a small tip of £1-£2 per round is a kind gesture.
• Cafes: In cafes or coffee shops, tipping is not required, but many customers leave loose change or round up the bill as a gesture of appreciation.

Tipping in London: Key Takeaways

• Service Charges: Always check your bill to see if a service charge has been included. If so, there’s no need for an additional tip unless the service was exceptional.
• Restaurants: Tip around 10-15% if no service charge is included.
• Hotels: Consider tipping porters, housekeeping, and concierge staff for excellent service.
• Taxis and Ride Services: Round up the fare or tip 10% for good service.
• Pubs and Cafes: Tipping is optional but appreciated for table service.

By following these simple tipping guidelines, you’ll be sure to navigate the tipping culture in London with ease, showing appreciation for great service while respecting local customs.