The Unspoken Tipping Etiquette To Keep In Mind When Dining Out In Scotland

Sprawling highlands, towering castles, and historic villages make Scotland a prime destination for travel lovers hoping to soak up some of the country's most beautiful and iconic landmarks. Whether you're a solo traveler exploring Edinburgh, trying the Isle of Skye's best hike, or keeping your eyes on the horizon to try and catch a glimpse of monsters swimming in Loch Ness, the northern country's many attractions are truly unforgettable. That said, beyond the itinerary planning and sightseeing, there are a few other considerations to keep in mind when venturing out to Scotland.

One of these is the importance of understanding local customs and traditions enough to blend in without coming across as clueless or disrespectful. And what better way to seamlessly fit in than by leaning into the practical custom of learning how to tip? Unlike the U.S., where tipping is practically mandatory in most cases, Scotland follows a more relaxed approach to gratuity. In fact, you probably won't face any judgment or disapproving looks if you choose not to tip — as Scottish staff typically receive regular wages rather than relying primarily on tips for their income.

That said, tipping still serves as a thoughtful gesture to show appreciation for good service in Scottish restaurants, hotels, bars, and beyond. However, instead of an obligation, the practice is seen more as a reward for excellent care, which ultimately helps create a more genuine exchange between you and your server. Specifically, one where tips truly reflect satisfaction instead of social pressure.

When it comes to tipping after dining in a Scottish restaurant, an added 10% is generally the standard amount for good service. For more casual settings like pubs serving food, tipping becomes even more flexible. Here, you can choose to either round up the bill to the nearest pound or leave a pound or two if you enjoyed your meal. That said, make sure you look through your bill carefully. Some restaurants add an automatic service charge of 10-15%, which means you don't need to worry about leaving an additional tip. 

In places where you order at the bar and carry your own food to the table, tipping isn't expected at all. This applies to most casual pubs, fast-food establishments, and self-service cafés throughout Scotland. 

That said, keep your eyes peeled for what you might see other diners doing. Tipping customs can vary slightly between major cities and rural areas, with Edinburgh and Glasgow restaurants sometimes expecting tips more than, say, an establishment in the Highlands or in a smaller town. And if you're still unsure, go ahead and ask your server (or any locals you might be dining with) about what's expected. They'll likely appreciate the sentiment and give you an honest answer about what's typical.

In terms of tipping at hotels in Scotland, things get a little more nuanced. For housekeeping staff, £5 (around $6.40) per day is a kind gesture. Porters typically receive £1-2 ($1.30-2.60) per bag, while concierge staff might be tipped £10-15 ($13-19) for exceptional service. For any taxi rides you might take during your trip, rounding up to the nearest pound is a safe approach. Otherwise, a 10% tip also works depending on the length of your journey and whether the driver helped with your luggage.

The same tipping principles generally apply to other instances where you're receiving a service — for example, if you're joining a guided tour. Whether you've booked a group tour online or hired a private tour guide to take you around — which is undoubtedly one of the best things to splurge on during your travels — leaving a 10% tip is a great way to show them that you've enjoyed their knowledge and enthusiasm.

Alternatively, if you're joining a free walking tour, always remember that these guides earn their living entirely from tips. With that in mind, most visitors usually contribute anywhere around £5-20 ($6.40-25.80) per person based on tour quality and length. Even if you're on a tight budget, a modest tip acknowledges all the work and effort that goes into running the tour. Throw in a five-star review on Google or TripAdvisor and you'll also help boost their business in a meaningful way that costs you nothing.