Is tipping expected in England?
Tipping is common but not always expected in England. In restaurants, a tip of about 10 to 15 percent is normal for good service, and many restaurants add an optional service charge of around 12.5 percent to the bill.
If a service charge is already included, there is no need to tip extra. Customers can ask for the service charge to be removed if they are unhappy with the service.
A law that came into force in 2024 requires businesses in England and the rest of Great Britain to pass all tips and service charges on to their workers.
Pubs, taxis and hotels
In pubs, tipping is not expected when buying drinks at the bar. Some people offer to buy the bartender a drink, saying and one for yourself, which may be added as a tip.
In black cabs and other taxis, passengers often round up the fare or add about ten percent. Hotel porters and housekeeping staff may be given small tips, but it is not compulsory.
Tipping is less common in cafes and fast food outlets, though tip jars are sometimes found on counters. Card machines often offer tipping options, but customers can choose not to tip.