While you explore the sights and sounds of this historic city, you might find yourself staying at one of the many London hotels. This guide explains when and how much to tip hotel staff in London and covers local tipping etiquette.
In London hotels, tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated for good service. For porters, a tip of £1-£2 per bag is common, and housekeeping staff may be tipped £1-£2 per day. Concierges may be tipped for exceptional service, typically £5 or more.
Grasping the nuances of tipping in London, especially within hotels, forms an important part of your travel experience. While tipping isn't mandatory, it is often expected in line with service satisfaction.
Tipping in London hotels is a matter of personal discretion but is widely regarded as a demonstration of satisfaction with service. Unlike some other places where tipping might be more formulaic, in London, tips are usually pooled among staff, reflecting a collective recognition of service. In upscale establishments, a small tip for the porter or concierge is commonplace, reflecting the tipping etiquette in London that rewards helpful service.
When scrutinizing your hotel bill, you may notice an optional service charge usually set at 10-15%. This is not a hidden cost but a transparent way for hotels to suggest a gratuity amount. Be aware, service charges are often discretionary, and you can ask for them to be removed if you wish to tip differently. In the absence of a service charge, considering a gratuity for exceptional service is in keeping with London's tipping culture. When a charge isn't applied, and service has been exemplary, it's customary to leave a tip at your discretion.
When staying at a London hotel, understanding the tipping etiquette can enhance your experience and show appreciation for the service provided.
In London hotels, tipping the hotel staff such as porters, bellhops, and door attendants is a common practice but it is not mandatory. You may decide to tip if you receive exceptional service. A simple guideline for porters and bellhops is 1-2 pounds per bag they help you with. For a doorman who hails a cab or provides an outstanding service, a tip similar to porters is suitable. It's also worth noting that in some hotels, tips are pooled among staff, so your gratitude is shared.
When you order room service, a gratuity might already be included in your bill—look for a 'service charge.' If not, and you're satisfied with the service, a 10-15% tip is generous. You might find a tipping tray in your room, which you can use to leave a tip for the housekeeping staff or you could leave the money by your bedside. If you interact with a concierge who helps make your stay particularly memorable, consider tipping 5-15 pounds depending on the complexity of the service provided.
When enjoying various food and beverage services in London, you’ll often encounter a service charge included on your bill, but it’s also commonplace to leave a discretionary tip for attentive service.
In many London restaurants, it’s usual for a service charge of around 10-15% to be added to your bill. This charge is often discretionary, but you can add an additional tip if the service was exceptional. Ensure to check your bill to see if the service charge has been included, as tipping on top of an included service charge is not necessary unless you desire to further reward exemplary table service.
While visiting bars and pubs, it's not as common to tip, but leaving loose change in the tip jar or rounding up the bill is a sign of your appreciation for the bartender's service. For table service in a pub, you might consider tipping similarly to a restaurant, especially if you receive prolonged service over several rounds of drinks.
In cafes or when ordering takeaway meals, tipping is less expected, but it’s always a kind gesture to leave some change if there’s a tip jar visible. If you’re paying by credit card or contactless payment, a small tip for good service can always be added manually when prompted or can be given in cash. For more casual dining experiences, tipping remains at your discretion based on your satisfaction with the service provided.
When traveling in London, knowing the local customs for tipping in transportation can save you from any awkward moments. Here’s how you can show appreciation for those who help you get from point A to point B.
In London, it's customary to tip taxi drivers and those driving private hire vehicles like black cabs and licensed minicabs. You should consider tipping around 10-15% of the fare, but many people simply round up to the nearest pound or tell the driver to "keep the change." For black cabs and minicabs, a tip isn't mandatory, but it is certainly appreciated for good service.
Whether you're on a sightseeing trip or a longer coach trip, a tip for your tour guide or coach driver is a thoughtful way to acknowledge their efforts. If they've provided an exceptional tour, tipping is a kind gesture. You might consider tipping £1-£2 for a day trip or if they've been particularly helpful, perhaps a bit more.
When using public transport like buses in London, tipping is not expected. London's transport system is designed to be convenient and efficient, and fares contribute to this service without the need for tips. You can enjoy your ride on the iconic red buses or the Tube without the need to think about tipping.
Tipping in London for personal services such as spas, salons, and leisure activities can vary. It's important to consider the level of service you receive, as this often influences the amount of gratuity given.
When visiting spas or salons in London, it's customary to leave a tip if you're pleased with the service. Generally, a 10%-15% gratuity is appreciated. For example, if your stylist, hairdresser, or barber provides exceptional service or your spa treatment is particularly indulgent, showing your gratitude through a tip is a well-received gesture. Always check your bill first, as some places might include a service charge.
For London tour guides, especially if you've enjoyed a meticulously planned and informative tour, a tip is a great way to express your satisfaction. A standard tip of 10%-15% of the tour price is typical for a good experience. However, for free tours, it's best to offer what you feel the tour was worth, usually around £5-£10 per person, as this may be the guide's main source of income. Always remember, while tipping is appreciated, it should align with the quality of service provided.
When exploring services outside of accommodation, the tipping customs differ. This section guides you on when a little extra is appreciated or unnecessary in retail and other settings.
When you encounter service that goes above and beyond, especially in a personal service industry, you may decide to give a discretionary tip to show your appreciation. For example, if salon staff or a guided tour operator particularly impresses you with their service, consider tipping in the local currency. Always check your bill first for a service charge, as this can serve as the tip, and feel free to add a bit more if you're especially pleased. However, when paying by card, it's worth checking that a tip can actually be added—some systems may not allow for it.
You're under no obligation to tip in self-service environments or when the service is unsatisfactory. For instance, if you're in a self-service cafe or experienced bad service in a retail setting, tipping isn't expected. Moreover, if there's already a service charge included in your bill and you did not receive exceptional service, it's acceptable not to add anything extra. Remember that a tip is a compliment to good service, not a requirement, and should mirror the quality of the service provided.
