For restaurant table service, allow around 10–15% if gratuity is not already included. When service appears on the bill, an additional tip is not needed.
10–15%Dining quick answer
Guidance applies to the services described below; customs can differ by provider.
FIND YOUR SITUATION
United Kingdom tipping cheat sheet
Amounts, whether a tip is expected, and the exceptions that matter. Open a row for details.
RestaurantsAdvice & exceptions10–15% if not included
An optional service charge may already cover the tip. Check the bill before adding another percentage.
Rounding to the next pound is customary. A larger percentage is a voluntary thank-you.
When & how: Tell the driver the total you want to pay.
Hotels & resortsAdvice & exceptionsGenerally not expected
Hotel tips are voluntary. The specific luggage-help convention is listed separately.
Bellhop & luggage helpAdvice & exceptionsAbout £2
VisitBritain suggests approximately £2 when a porter takes luggage to your room.
When & how: Give it after the bags are delivered.
Cash or card: Small sterling cash is convenient.
HousekeepingAdvice & exceptionsOptional
No routine hotel tip is expected; a personal thank-you for good cleaning is your choice.
ConciergeAdvice & exceptionsOptional
Hotel staff do not generally expect a tip. You can reward particularly helpful assistance.
Salons & barbersAdvice & exceptionsRound up optional
The operator describes rounding up for hairdressers as optional appreciation.
FROM ARRIVAL TO CHECKOUT
Your journey
Arriving & getting around
Keep a prepaid airport transfer separate from a metered taxi or a full-day driver. For tour budgets, check the unit and whether guide and driver tips are separate.
If you choose to give a personal cash tip, use a currency the recipient can spend and make its purpose clear. Card payment for the bill does not guarantee a card-tip facility. Check the final total before approving it.
For a prepaid tour or resort stay, read the gratuity inclusions. A service fee, a staff tip pool and an individual guide tip may cover different people.
