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would it be customary to tip the waiter/waitress when I receive the bill?
In London it is customary to leave an extra 10-15% of the bill to the waiter, especially in large groups.
Please note though, if you pay by card the tips might go through to the restaurant itself and not the waiter so it is always good to ask the waiter how to tip them. The best is usually leaving some coins/cash.
Some restaurants automatically add on a service charge of usually 12.5% so make sure you donβt tip twice.
Tipping in London's restaurants. It is customary to leave 10-15% of the bill when eating out. However, restaurants often add on a service charge (usually 12.5%), especially if you're in a large group, so it's worth checking your bill if you don't want to tip twice.
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Would it be seem as offensive if I donβt?
If you are not a large group and it is evident you are a tourist it might not seem as offensive but leave a small tip just in case.