UK Tip Calculator
In the UK a service charge is often already on the bill. Check before adding more.
Service often included — we show the gapEnter your details above, then press Calculate to see the tip, total and per-person amount.
Tipping customs vary by country and change over time. These figures are estimates for planning only — always follow the local norm and check whether a service charge is already on the bill.
Service charges are common in the UK
Unlike the US, many UK restaurants — especially in London — add a service charge of around 10 to 12.5 percent directly to the bill. When that line is present, an extra tip is optional rather than expected. The calculator above starts with the service-included box ticked, so if you also want to leave something, it shows only the gap above what is already charged.
Always read the bottom of the bill. If a discretionary service charge is listed, you are usually free to ask for it to be removed if the service was poor. If it is marked as non-discretionary, it is effectively compulsory and you should not add more on top.
Tipping beyond restaurants
For taxis, rounding up to the nearest pound or adding about 10 percent is a polite gesture but not demanded. Pubs do not expect tips, though you might tell the bartender to "get one yourself" by rounding up. Hotel porters and housekeeping appreciate a few pounds, but it is not required. The British approach is relaxed: a small rounding-up is welcome, a strict percentage is unusual.
Worked example
A £80 London dinner with a 12.5 percent service charge already on the bill.
| Bill | £80.00 |
| Service already included | £10.00 |
| Extra tip you add (optional) | £0.00 |
| Total paid | £80.00 |
Because the charge is already there, adding another 12.5 percent would double-tip.
Frequently asked questions
If a service charge is included, should I tip more?
Not usually. The included charge is the tip. You can add a little more for excellent service, and the calculator shows only that extra gap.
How much do I tip a London taxi?
Rounding up to the nearest pound or about 10 percent is typical. It is appreciated but not required.
Do I tip in a British pub?
No. At the bar you simply pay the listed price. Offering to round up ("and one for yourself") is a friendly optional gesture.
What does "discretionary" service charge mean?
It means you may remove it if service was poor. If it says non-discretionary, it is compulsory and you should not add more.