Once upon a time my dining companion and I were forced to suffer truly terrible service and an awful meal in a New York restaurant, resulting in us leaving only a 5% tip (we debated not tipping at all but my friend is American and knew better). The manager chased us down the street telling us we were rude. It seems in America (where the service, I must admit, is usually far better) tipping is expected whereas here in the UK whilst tipping is common it is normally reserved for good service and I can’t imagine being chased down a high street for tipping only 5%. However as times change and tipping becomes more prevalent here in the UK I often hear many people wondering who one should tip and when.

You are not obliged to tip anywhere in the UK and tips should be reserved for good service. If you do receive good service here is a list by profession of what is the norm to tip -

Taxi drivers

10% is the norm for a black cabs (Hackney Carriage) and metered mini cabs however many people will just round up the fare to the nearest pound. If your taxi fare is an agreed flat fare a service charge is normally included and there is no need for a further tip.

Restaurants and cafés

It is common practice to leave a 10% tip in an establishment with waiter service. It is not the done thing to tip in a self-service, takeaway or buffet situation. Do check before leaving a tip. Many restaurants include a service charge of around 12% and details of this can usually be found on the menu or bill but don’t be afraid to ask what their policy is, you don’t want to end up tipping twice.

Pubs

Pubs are slightly different to cafés and restaurants. It is acceptable for the customer, if impressed by the service or having ordered a few large rounds with them, to offer to buy the member of staff a drink when you’re buying your own. If they take you up on this offer they are likely to take up to the price of a half print or small measure (usually far less from an older customer) from your change unless you specify otherwise.

Hairdressers or beauticians

When it comes to tipping hairdressers I always think it is in your best interest to tip well if you have a good relationship with them or intend to become a regular. You’ll find they can squeeze you in at short notice if you’re known as a good tipper and have built a good relationship with them. Around 10-15% is considered a good tip in a salon.

Postmen

It is not customary to tip package delivery persons nor postal workers, although a Christmas tip is sometimes given to regular postal workers if their service is considered exceptional.

Milkmen/bin men/other local services

As with postal workers a regular tip is not expected and it would be highly unusual to tip such services, although a Christmas tip (not necessarily monetary – consider baked goods or homemade treats) is customary if you’ve come to know your operative throughout the year.  Be warned tipping bin men whilst fortnightly collections are in place could be considered a highly contentious subject. Mark this one as a firm ‘no’ when it comes to dinner party topics.

All of this said – if you feel your have not received satisfactory service, or the person who has served you has not been well mannered or helpful do not feel you have to tip (if there is a service charge and you feel your service needs have not been met ask for it to be removed) and do remember to make a complaint to the appropriate person.

{Photo: J.D. Mack}