London Tipping Guide: Your Quick Cheat Sheet for Restaurants, Taxis, Hotels and More

If you’re heading to London for a weekend or a longer stay, you’ll quickly notice that tipping can feel a bit confusing. Some places already include a service charge, others expect a small cash tip, and a few don’t expect anything at all. This guide cuts through the noise and gives you clear, practical numbers so you can pay confidently and avoid awkward moments.

Where You’ll Need to Tip

London’s tipping culture is most common in four spots: restaurants and cafés, pubs with table service, taxis and rideshares, and hotels. In a typical sit‑down restaurant, staff usually add a 12‑15 % service charge to the bill. Look for a line that says “service charge” – if it’s there, you don’t need to leave extra cash unless the service was extraordinary. If there’s no service charge, a 10 % tip in cash is standard.

Pubs are a mixed bag. If you order drinks at the bar, you don’t need to tip. If you have a table and the server brings your drinks, rounding up the bill or leaving £1‑£2 is polite. For a full meal served at a table, treat it like a restaurant – check for a service charge first, then tip if needed.

Taxis and rideshares follow a simple rule: round up to the nearest pound or add about 10 % for good service. Drivers don’t expect large tips, but a nice, rounded fare shows appreciation. For airport transfers or private hire cars, a £2‑£5 tip is common, depending on distance and luggage help.

In hotels, you’ll encounter several tipping moments. Bellhops appreciate £1‑£2 per bag, housekeeping staff are happy with £1‑£2 per night left in a small envelope, and concierge help (like booking a restaurant) can earn £5‑£10 if they go above and beyond.

How Much to Tip – Simple Numbers to Remember

Here’s a quick reference you can keep on your phone:

• Restaurants with no service charge: 10 % cash tip.
• Restaurants with service charge: no extra tip needed, unless service was superb (add £5‑£10).
• Pubs with table service: round up the bill or add £1‑£2.
• Bar counters: no tip required.
• Taxis/rideshares: round up to nearest pound or add 10 %.
• Hotel bellhop: £1‑£2 per bag.
• Housekeeping: £1‑£2 per night, left daily.
• Concierge: £5‑£10 for special arrangements.

Remember, tipping is always optional. If you feel the service wasn’t up to par, you’re not obligated to leave a tip. Conversely, if a server went out of their way – like recommending a hidden gem restaurant or helping with a heavy suitcase – a generous tip is a great way to say thanks.

One last tip: always carry a few small notes. London cash machines often dispense larger bills, and having £1 or £5 notes makes it easy to tip on the spot. If you’re paying by card, you can still leave a cash tip after the transaction – just hand the note directly to the staff.

By keeping these basics in mind, you’ll blend right in with locals and make sure the people who help you enjoy your London adventure feel appreciated. Happy travels, and enjoy the city’s food, sights, and friendly service!