Tipping in the UK — How Much?
- Restaurants: 10–12.5% is standard; 15–20% for exceptional service. Many restaurants add 12.5% automatically — you can remove it.
- Taxis: Rounding up or 10% is typical. Not always expected for minicabs.
- Hairdressers/barbers: 10% is common. Cash tips are preferred by staff.
- Delivery drivers: Not expected for supermarket deliveries; optional for restaurant delivery (via app or cash).
- Hotels: Optional — £1–2 per bag for porters, nothing mandatory at check-out.
- Pubs: "Have one for yourself" (offer a drink) is a common alternative to a monetary tip.
How much should I tip in the UK?
10–12.5% is the most common range at UK restaurants. Tipping is optional and not legally required. Verify whether a service charge has already been added before tipping again.
Do restaurant service charges go to staff?
Not always. Ask the restaurant or pay cash directly to the server if you want to ensure the tip reaches them. Since October 2024, employers cannot withhold tips from workers, but the service charge itself may be distributed differently by different businesses.