TipMath

Tipping in the UK

Do you tip in the UK? Modestly. 10–12.5% at restaurants if service isn't already added.

Restaurants and service charges

  • Many restaurants add a "discretionary" or "optional" service charge, usually 12.5%. If it is on the bill, you don't need to tip again, and you can ask for it to be removed if service was poor.
  • Since the Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023 took effect in October 2024, employers in England, Scotland and Wales must pass all tips and service charges to workers in full.
  • If there's no service charge, 10–12.5% is standard.

Pubs, taxis and hotels

  • Pubs: no tip when ordering at the bar. Some offer to "buy the bartender one" (add the price of a drink); optional.
  • Taxis: round up to the nearest pound or add about 10%.
  • Hotels: £1–£2 per bag to porters.

Tip calculator for UK

Tip
Split between
1
person

Total to pay

$0.00

Bill$0.00
Tip (12%)$0.00
Total$0.00

Questions people ask

Is the service charge compulsory in the UK?

A "discretionary" service charge is optional; you can ask for it to be removed. A compulsory charge must be clearly shown before you order.

Do you tip in UK pubs?

Not for drinks ordered at the bar. For table service meals in a pub, 10% is normal.

Should I tip hairdressers in the UK?

It's optional; around 10% or rounding up is common.

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