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Tipping in London, or in the UK, is just as common as it is in Germany. Financial recognition is particularly appreciated in restaurants, taxis, and hotels.
Tipping in London and the UK: What is customary
In the countries belonging to the UK, it is customary to tip taxi drivers and service staff in restaurants. Financial recognition is also welcome in hotels or for various services. Always give coins in the local currency. Euro coins cannot be exchanged and are therefore worthless to the recipient.
- Restaurants, bars, and pubs: In restaurants, 10 to 15 percent of the bill is normal. Many restaurants automatically add a service charge to the bill. In this case, no additional tip is expected. On the other hand, it is unusual to tip for drinks in a pub or bar.
- Hotels: If a porter brings your luggage to your room, it is normal to tip around £2. If you use room service, you can leave a tip at your discretion. The same applies to cleaning staff.
- Taxi: Round up the fare to the nearest pound. If the driver helps you with your luggage or you are particularly satisfied, tip between 10 and 15 percent of the fare.
- Hairdresser: If you are satisfied with your visit to the hair salon, 10 percent of the bill is an appropriate tip.
Giving tips correctly: Typical everyday situations
While tips are expected in restaurants or taxis, there are situations in the UK where tipping may be unusual or even seem strange.
- In traditional pubs, for example, it is not customary to tip for every drink. Instead, it is common practice to offer the server a “buy a drink” – that is, to order the next drink for the server. This is considered a friendly and authentic way of showing appreciation.
- For tradespeople or other services outside the restaurant industry, tipping is rather rare and should only be given for exceptionally good service.
- Another difference to Germany is that receipts often already include a “service charge.” An additional tip may then be considered excessive. Therefore, always check the bill before paying.
