Is tipping customary in Scotland? Tipping in Scotland is appreciated but not always expected. While it’s common to tip in restaurants and taxis, there’s no strict rule—10% is usually enough. Always check if a service charge is included.
- Tipping Culture in Scotland: The Basics
- Tipping in Scottish Restaurants
- Tipping in Scotland Pubs and Bars
- Tipping in Taxis and Rideshares in Scotland
- Tipping in Hotels in Scotland
- Tipping Tour Guides in Scotland
- Regional Tipping Customs: Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Glasgow
- What Is the Tipping Policy in Scotland?
- Comparison: Tipping in Scotland vs. Ireland and England
- Tipping Etiquette in Scotland: Do’s and Don’ts
- FAQs: Tipping in Scotland
- Luggage Storage in Scotland: Travel Light with Radical Storage
- Tipping in Scotland Doesn’t Have to Be Stressful
Traveling to Scotland, with its breathtaking Highlands, historic castles, and charming cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow, is a memorable experience. But as you plan your itinerary, you may be wondering: Is tipping in Scotland customary?
This guide breaks down how tipping works in Scotland, from restaurants to taxis and hotels. Whether you’re visiting Edinburgh, Aberdeen, or exploring the countryside, you’ll feel confident navigating the tipping culture in Scotland.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know, including local etiquette, how much to tip, and situations where tipping is (or isn’t) necessary.
Tipping Culture in Scotland: The Basics
Is Tipping Customary in Scotland?
Tipping in Scotland is not as rigid or expected as in the U.S., but it is a polite gesture. Generally, locals tip for good service—especially in restaurants, taxis, and for tour guides.
Is Tipping Expected in Scotland?
While tipping is appreciated, it’s not always expected. Many workers are paid a fair wage, and service charges are sometimes included.
Key takeaway: When in doubt, a 10% tip for good service is sufficient.
Tipping in Scottish Restaurants
Tipping at Restaurants in Scotland
In sit-down restaurants, tipping is common but discretionary. If the service charge isn’t already included, a 10% to 15% tip is typical.
How to Know If a Tip is Included
Always check your bill. Some higher-end restaurants automatically add a service charge, especially in Edinburgh or Glasgow.
| Service Type | Tipping Custom | Tip Amount |
| Casual Cafe | Not expected | Optional |
| Mid-range Restaurant | Appreciated | 10% |
| Fine Dining | Often included | 10–15% if not included |
Tipping in Scotland Pubs and Bars
Tipping in Scottish pubs isn’t common. You don’t need to tip for drinks at the bar, but if you’re being served at a table or you feel service was exceptional, a small tip or rounding up the bill is fine.
Tipping in Taxis and Rideshares in Scotland
Tipping Taxis in Scotland
Tipping in Scotland taxis is not required but rounding up to the nearest pound or adding 5–10% is appreciated, especially for longer rides or if the driver helps with luggage.
Uber and Rideshare Tips
In apps like Uber, tipping is optional. You can leave a tip through the app or in cash.
Tipping in Hotels in Scotland
Hotel tipping etiquette in Scotland depends on the service:
- Porters: £1–£2 per bag
- Housekeeping: £1–£2 per night, left on the nightstand
- Concierge: £5–£10 for special arrangements
Not all travelers tip in hotels, but it’s a nice way to show appreciation for extra effort.
Tipping Tour Guides in Scotland
Tour Guide Tipping in Scotland
Tipping is encouraged for private or guided tours. A £5–£10 tip per person is standard for full-day tours, or £2–£5 for shorter ones.
For free walking tours, a tip is how guides are paid, so £5–£10 per person is appropriate.
Regional Tipping Customs: Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Glasgow
Tipping in Edinburgh, Scotland
In tourist-heavy Edinburgh, tipping is more common in central restaurants, hotels, and taxis. A 10% tip is the norm.
Tipping in Aberdeen, Scotland
Aberdeen has a more local vibe, and tipping is less expected. However, tipping 10% in restaurants and rounding up taxi fares is appreciated.
Tipping in Glasgow and Smaller Cities
Similar rules apply: tip in restaurants, consider rounding up fares, but there’s no strong obligation.
What Is the Tipping Policy in Scotland?
There is no official tipping policy in Scotland. It remains a voluntary gesture, mostly in recognition of good service. The country operates on a fair wage system, reducing the dependence on tips.
Comparison: Tipping in Scotland vs. Ireland and England
| Category | Scotland | Ireland | England |
| Restaurants | 10–15% (if not included) | 10–15% (if not included) | 10–12.5% |
| Taxis | Round up / 10% | Round up / 10% | Round up / 10% |
| Hotels | Optional | Optional | Optional |
| Tour Guides | £5–£10 | €5–€10 | £5–£10 |
| Bars | Not expected | Not expected | Not expected |
Tipping Etiquette in Scotland: Do’s and Don’ts
Do tip in restaurants if the service was good.
Do round up your taxi fare.
Do tip tour guides, especially for walking tours.
Don’t tip at pubs unless you feel service was exceptional.
Don’t stress—tips are appreciated, not required.
FAQs: Tipping in Scotland
Is tipping a thing in Scotland?
Yes, but it’s not mandatory. People often tip 10% in restaurants and for guided tours.
How does tipping work in Scotland?
You tip based on the quality of service. Restaurants, taxis, and tour guides are common places to leave a tip.
Is tipping normal in Scotland pubs?
No, tipping in pubs is not customary unless you receive table service.
What is tipping etiquette in Scotland for hotels?
Tip porters and housekeeping if you feel the service is above average. £1–£2 is standard.
Should I tip in Edinburgh or Aberdeen?
Tipping in both cities follows the same rules—10% in restaurants, rounding up taxis, optional in hotels.
Luggage Storage in Scotland: Travel Light with Radical Storage
As you explore Edinburgh’s Royal Mile or hike through the Highlands, the last thing you want is to lug heavy bags. That’s where Radical Storage comes in.
What is Radical Storage?
Radical Storage is a global luggage storage service that partners with local businesses—like hotels and shops—to store your bags safely and affordably.
Why Use Radical Storage in Scotland?
| Feature | Radical Storage Offers |
| Locations | 70+ in Scotland (including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen) |
| Security | Guaranteed & insured storage |
| Price | Fixed daily rate (no size limits) |
| Booking | Easy online booking |
| Support | 24/7 multilingual customer support |
Popular Locations in Scotland
- Edinburgh Waverley Station
- Glasgow Central Station
- Aberdeen Union Square
Book via the official Radical Storage site and travel Scotland with peace of mind.
Tipping in Scotland Doesn’t Have to Be Stressful
Now that you understand what the tipping culture in Scotland is like, you can confidently enjoy your trip. Remember:
- Tip 10% in restaurants if no service charge is included.
- Round up taxi fares.
- Tip tour guides generously.
- Don’t worry—tipping is appreciated, not expected.
And when it comes to traveling light, don’t forget Radical Storage—your trusted luggage storage solution in Scotland and around the world.
