How much should you tip in the UK — and does service charge count

UK tipping norms are lower than US ones

In the US, 18–20% is the standard expectation for table service. In the UK, 10–15% for good service is the general norm, with 10% being common and some people rounding up or leaving nothing in casual settings. Tipping in pubs, cafes, and fast food settings is rarely expected. The social rules are looser and the choice is genuinely discretionary.

A service charge is not always the same as a tip

Many UK restaurants add a 10–12.5% discretionary service charge to the bill. This is often the restaurant's revenue and may or may not be passed directly to staff. If you want the money to go to the person who served you, ask whether tips or cash go directly to staff. You are entitled to remove a discretionary service charge if service was poor.

Tipping on top of a service charge is your choice

If a service charge is already included and you want to tip additionally on top, that is entirely your decision. If the service was genuinely outstanding, adding a small amount in cash — where possible — is more likely to reach the server directly. If the service was poor, removing the discretionary charge is a legitimate option.