tipping in Scotland

As a general rule, tips aren't usually expected in Scotland at a hotel. However, if the service is above standard, giving a small tip to workers would be considered polite. For example, usually people leave a tip for the chambermaid if their work is exceptional, but this doesn’t mean it’s a requirement. However, as with anywhere in the world, it's polite to give a small tip to the porter who carries your bags to your room.

Tipping is uncommon in casual restaurants where food is brought to your table and you pay for your order at the counter, but there is no harm in leaving a pound or two for the waiter. Conversely, in restaurants where the waiter/waitress brings the food to your table and the bill, it would be polite to tip around 10%. However, this of course does vary from place to place.

For instance, in fine dining restaurants, usually waiter/waitresses expect a higher tip, around 15%. While it isn’t compulsory, not leaving a tip may be considered rude unless of course you had a problem with the service. In some restaurants, a 10% service charge is added to the bill. In this case, it isn’t exactly necessary to tip the waiter/waitress.

Bartenders serving drinks in bars and pubs in Scotland don’t expect to be tipped by customers. If you order food you might consider tipping for good service, but there isn't the same expectation as in the USA or Canada. That being said, tips are always appreciated. It's up to you really, if you feel like you've received good service, by all means tip!

Similar to any other service in Scotland, it isn’t a requirement or necessity to leave a tip. Nevertheless, it is expected to round up to the nearest pound on taxi journeys that are metered. This makes it more convenient for both the drivers and passengers. However, if you are hiring a taxi for a ride to the airport, then to make sure to tip the driver if he helps with your luggage.