When visiting Manchester, understanding the local tipping etiquette can help you navigate the city’s service industries confidently. After all, we all know that awkward feeling of not wanting to offend yet scared to commit a social faux pas.

I’ll never forget the time when a visiting American friend called me in a panic while she was trying to decide whether to leave a tip at a small, family-owned cafe. Since I missed her call, she ended up leaving a tip that was way too large!

Thankfully, the owner was so surprised that she approached my friend to ask if everything was okay. Nonetheless, my friend was embarrassed, and I felt bad for not being able to help.

Also, that experience made me realize the importance of understanding tipping etiquette. So, to keep people from being placed in that kind of situation again, I came up with this guide to tipping in Manchester! Let’s get started.

What is the tipping culture like in Manchester?

In the UK, especially in Manchester, tipping isn’t mandatory but is appreciated for good service. However, it’s still common to tip in restaurants, hotels, and taxis as a way of showing gratitude. 

Most workers earn at least the national minimum wage, so tipping isn’t essential to their income.

How much should you tip in Manchester?

A standard tip is around 10% in restaurants, though some places may add a 12.5% service charge. For taxis, rounding up the fare is common, and in cafes or bars, tipping is less expected but still welcome​.

Restaurants

In Manchester, it’s common to tip around 10–15% of your bill at restaurants if the service was good. Some restaurants might automatically add a service charge, usually 10–12.5%, so it’s always a good idea to check your bill.

If a service charge is already included, there’s no need to tip extra unless you feel the service was exceptional​

Bars

Tipping in bars is less common than in restaurants. If you order drinks at the bar, tipping isn’t expected, but you can round up the bill or leave a small amount if you receive excellent service.

In more upscale bars, particularly cocktail lounges, leaving a small tip for well-crafted drinks is appreciated​

Hotels

Tipping hotel staff in Manchester varies depending on the service. For bellhops or porters helping with luggage, a tip of £1–2 per bag is appropriate.

Housekeepers typically don’t expect tips, but leaving £1–2 per night is a nice gesture for exceptional cleanliness. If a concierge provides an outstanding service, like securing hard-to-get reservations, a £5–10 tip would be fitting.

Taxis

In Manchester, taxi drivers do not expect tips, but rounding up to the nearest pound or adding 10% of the fare is customary, especially for longer trips or when the driver helps with luggage.

Spas and Salons

If you visit a spa or salon, tipping your therapist or hairdresser 10–15% of the bill is typical, especially if you’re satisfied with the service. Some salons may have card machines that allow you to add a tip electronically​