Tipping in the United Kingdom
Tipping in the UK is appreciated but generally more modest than in the US. Many sit-down restaurants add a discretionary service charge.
Tipping by service in the United Kingdom
| Service | Expectation | Typical amount |
|---|---|---|
| Sit-down restaurant | Expected | 10–12.5% — check bill first; many restaurants add a discretionary service charge |
| Counter / takeaway | Optional | £0 — not customary; round-up or tip jar appreciated |
| Café | Optional | £0 — round up or drop change in tip jar |
| Bar | Unusual | £0 — or offer "one for yourself" (~£1) |
| Housekeeping | Appreciated | £2–5 per night for mid- to high-end stays |
| Porter | Appreciated | £1–2 per bag |
| Concierge | Appreciated | £5–20 if they secure something hard to get |
| Taxi | Appreciated | Round up to nearest £ or ~10% |
| Rideshare | Optional | Optional — £1–2 or ~10% via app |
| Food delivery | Appreciated | £1–3 or ~10% via app |
| Grocery delivery | Unusual | £0 for supermarkets (Tesco/Sainsbury's policy bars it); £1–2 for app couriers |
| Hairdresser | Expected | 10% standard |
| Spa | Optional | 0–10%; many high-end spas add service charge |
| Tour guide | Expected | 10–15% of tour cost, or £5–10 per person for free walking tours |
| Tattoo artist | Optional | £0 — not customary; 10–20% if you do tip |
| Valet | Appreciated | £2–5 on return of vehicle |
| Airport baggage | Appreciated | £1–2 per bag (porter service is rare at UK airports) |
| Busker | Appreciated | £1–5 if you stopped to listen |
| Movers | Appreciated | £20–50 per mover for a good job |
| Tradesperson | Unusual | £0 — not customary; tea and biscuits preferred |