basics

Tipping in London

Whilst a waiter in London may not necessarily spit at you as you walk out the door for
not tipping, it is common to tip 10% to 15% when eating out in London. This is entirely
dependent on what you thought of the level of service, and by all means, don't leave a tip
if the waiter dropped your soup in your lap.

When buying drinks over the bar

Bar staff may try to indicate tipping is required by placing your change on a dish when returning
it to you. Again, tipping is entirely up to you - as a general rule, you may tip the bartender at the
end of the night, but generally this is only done at up market establishments for exceptional service.
(Tipping a pound every time you buy a couple of drinks can quickly add up!)

Also take care when putting a card behind the bar and running up a tab. As with anywhere, always
remember to sign off the tab before leaving - after checking the total of course! Also be sure to write
in the total should a space be shown for this - or you might find the barman has become rather generous
in tipping himself!