As a London hotel owner, there’s one question I hear almost daily from my American guests: “How much should I tip?” I completely understand the anxiety – tipping customs here in London are notably different from what you’re used to back home, and the last thing you want is to appear rude or generous to a fault. Having watched countless visitors navigate this cultural maze (and sometimes leaving far too much money on the table), I’ve put together this straightforward guide to London tipping etiquette. Whether you’re dining at a posh restaurant in Mayfair or grabbing a pint at a local pub, these insider tips will help you handle gratuities like a true Londoner. Trust me – understanding when, where, and how much to tip will not only save you money but also help you feel more confident during your London adventures.
The ‘Service Included’ Mystery – What It Really Means
As an American, you’re probably used to adding 18-20% to every bill. But here in London, when you see “service included” or “service charge 12.5%” on your restaurant bill, you might wonder if that’s the same as a tip. Let me clear this up for you, as it’s one of the most common questions I get from guests at my Kensington hotel.
Here’s the straightforward truth: when you see “service included” or a service charge listed on your bill (typically 12.5% in London), this is essentially your tip. It’s automatically added to your bill and yes, it does go to the service staff – though some restaurants pool these charges among all employees. Think of it as a more formalized version of the American tipping system.
But here’s something important that many of my American guests don’t realize: this service charge is actually optional. If you’ve had genuinely poor service, you can ask for it to be removed. I’ve done this maybe twice in my 15 years in London, and trust me, it sends a very clear message. However, if you’re happy with the service, which is usually the case, simply pay the included amount and rest assured that you’re following local custom.
Quick Reference:
- “Service Included” = No additional tip needed
- “Service Charge 12.5%” = Also no additional tip needed
- No service charge listed = Consider adding 10-12.5%
- Exceptional service = Feel free to add a bit extra, but it’s not expected
Pro tip: Many restaurants now hand you a card machine that prompts you for an additional tip amount, even when service is included. Don’t feel pressured – if you’ve already paid a service charge, it’s perfectly fine to select “no additional tip.” I see American visitors double-tipping all the time, and while the staff won’t complain, it’s unnecessary!
When NOT to Tip (Yes, Really!)
One of the biggest cultural differences I notice with my American guests is their instinct to tip everyone. Just last week, I watched a lovely couple from Chicago trying to tip our local pub’s bartender, who looked genuinely confused! While your generosity is admirable, there are actually several situations in London where tipping isn’t expected or necessary – and sometimes might even make things a bit awkward.
Let’s start with black cabs, those iconic London taxis. Unlike New York City, where tipping your cab driver is standard practice, London cabbies don’t expect a tip. If your fare comes to £18.60, it’s perfectly fine to round up to £19 or £20, but there’s no need for that 15-20% extra you’re used to adding. I’ve been taking black cabs for years, and I can tell you with certainty that most Londoners simply round up to the nearest pound.
The same goes for pubs – and this is important! When ordering at the bar, your bartender isn’t expecting a tip. In fact, in my local pub just around the corner from the hotel, I’ve seen the staff try to return “tips” to American visitors, thinking they’d accidentally left their change behind. If you’re having table service in a pub’s dining room, that’s different (check for the service charge), but for regular bar service, save your pounds.
Quick “No Tip Needed” Reference:
- Black cabs (just round up)
- Pub drinks at the bar
- Fast food restaurants
- Coffee shops with counter service
- Museum staff and tour guides
- Hotel porters (though £1-2 per bag is welcome if they carry your luggage)
💡 Money-Saving Tip: By avoiding unnecessary tipping in these situations, you can save those pounds for experiences where gratuities are genuinely expected, like sit-down restaurants or your hardworking housekeeping staff.
Final Thoughts: Tipping with Confidence in London
After managing a London hotel for over a decade and helping thousands of American guests navigate our tipping culture, I can assure you that it’s much simpler than it might seem at first. Remember, you’re not being stingy by following local customs – you’re actually showing respect for our way of doing things. The key is to watch for that service charge on restaurant bills, keep your wallet in your pocket at the pub bar, and save your generous tipping instincts for situations where they’re truly appreciated.
Still feeling uncertain? Here’s my tried-and-true advice: when in doubt, simply ask a local (or your friendly hotel staff!) what’s customary. We’d much rather you ask than worry about it. And if you accidentally over-tip or under-tip somewhere? Don’t worry – we Londoners understand you’re visiting and appreciate your effort to learn our customs.
Quick Takeaway Card
✓ Restaurant with service included: You’re all set
✓ Restaurant without service: 10-12.5%
✓ Taxi: Round up to nearest pound
✓ Pub drinks: No tip needed
✓ Hotel porter: £1-2 per bag
✓ Hotel housekeeping: £2-3 per night
Save this guide for your London trip, and you’ll handle tipping situations with the confidence of a local. Enjoy your stay in our wonderful city!