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Practical answers for a London visit: what to tip, what a dress code actually requires, and which Tube lines run all night. Each one checked at the source.

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Tipping in London: What to Leave, and Where

Most London restaurants have already added the tip. What the service charge covers, where it is 15 per cent, and the places you should not tip at all.

9 min read

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Questions we get asked

How much should you tip in London?

Check the bill first. Nearly every London restaurant above the casual end adds a discretionary service charge of 12.5 per cent, and some add 15. Where it is already on the bill you do not tip on top: that is not generous, it is paying twice, and no member of staff expects it.

What does smart casual mean in London?

No sportswear, no shorts, no ripped denim, no beachwear. Beyond that you have latitude. A collared shirt or fine knit, trousers or dark unripped jeans, and shoes that are not running trainers will clear every door that uses the phrase.

Does the Night Tube run every night?

No. Friday and Saturday nights only, on six lines: Central, Jubilee, Northern, Piccadilly, Victoria and Windrush. Assuming otherwise is the most common way to end up paying for a long taxi.