Tipping in Scotland
What to tip, when to tip, and when you do not need to. Clear guidance for visitors.
Tipping in Scotland is appreciated but not obligatory. The culture is very different from the US. Staff are paid at least the national minimum wage (currently £11.44 per hour for over-21s). Tips are a thank-you, not a wage supplement.
Nobody will chase you down the street or give you a dirty look for not tipping. Equally, good service is worth recognising. If someone has looked after you well, a tip is a straightforward way to say thanks.
This guide is aimed particularly at American visitors who are used to a 20%+ tipping culture and feel unsure what to do. The short version: relax. 10% at a restaurant is generous. Beyond that, follow your instincts.
Tipping by situation
Restaurants
10% is standard for good table service. Many restaurants add a discretionary service charge, and for larger tables (typically 6+) it is often added automatically – always check your bill before adding a tip on top. If a service charge is already included, no additional tip is needed. For casual dining and cafes, tipping is not expected but rounding up is a nice gesture.
Pubs and bars
Tipping is not expected at the bar. If you want to thank the bartender, say "and one for yourself" – they will add a drink to the tab. In a pub restaurant, the same restaurant rules apply.
Hotels
Porters: £1–2 per bag. Housekeeping: £2–5 per night for longer stays, not expected for one night. Concierge: £5–10 if they have gone out of their way.
Taxis
Round up to the nearest pound. For a £17 fare, give £20. Nobody expects a percentage-based tip.
Private driver-guides and chauffeur
10–20% of the tour cost is appreciated if you are happy with the service. 10–15% is generous; 20% for exceptional service. Not expected, but always very welcome. Cash or bank transfer.
Hairdressers
£2–5 or 10% is common. Not expected.
Tour guides (group coach tours)
These are typically larger coach tours with a driver and a guide. £5–10 per person for a full-day guide is generous. Some coaches have a tip envelope that gets passed around at the end of the day.
How to tip
- Cash is still the simplest way to tip directly. Hand it to the person you want to thank.
- Card tipping: many card machines now ask if you want to add a tip. This is perfectly fine.
- Service charges: check the bill. If it says “service charge included” or “discretionary service charge”, that IS the tip. You do not need to add more.
- In Scotland, tips legally belong to the staff, not the employer (since the Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023).
Key differences from the US
US: 18–25% is expected. Staff rely on tips for income.
Scotland: 10% is generous. Staff have a living wage.
US: Tipping is almost mandatory.
Scotland: Tipping is genuinely optional. Nobody will judge you.
US: You tip at bars.
Scotland: You do not tip at the bar. Offering to buy the bartender a drink is the equivalent.
US: Tip on the pre-tax total.
Scotland: Service charges are calculated on the total bill.
Do not feel guilty about tipping less than you would at home. Scottish service staff do not expect American-level tips and will be genuinely pleased with 10%.
FAQ
Do I have to tip in Scotland?
No. It is appreciated for good service but never required.
How much should I tip at a restaurant in Scotland?
10% for good service at a sit-down restaurant. Check your bill first – many restaurants add a service charge automatically, especially for larger tables of 6 or more. If it is already on the bill, you do not need to add more.
Should I tip my tour guide or driver?
It is appreciated but not expected. 10–15% of the tour cost is a generous thank-you. For exceptional service, 20% is not unusual. For group coach tours, £5–10 per person is the norm.
Is tipping rude in Scotland?
No. It is always welcome for good service. The only awkward moment is trying to tip in a pub at the bar – just offer to buy them a drink instead.
Do I tip in cash or on card?
Either works. Cash goes directly to the person. Card tips are now legally protected and must go to staff.
Should I tip at a bed and breakfast?
Not expected for a short stay. For longer stays, leaving £5–10 on the last morning is a kind gesture.
Is service charge the same as a tip?
Yes. If the bill includes a service charge, that is your tip. You do not need to add more. It is usually 10–12.5%.
What currency should I tip in?
Pounds sterling (GBP). Scottish banknotes are legal currency across the UK.
Planning what to bring? What to pack for Scotland.
Looking for things to do? Best things to do in Inverness.
Plan your Scotland trip
Private tours and chauffeur from Inverness. Let us take care of the details.