Quick Answer
UK taxi tipping is light. Round up to the nearest pound on short rides. Add £1-2 or 10% on longer rides if service was good. Never expected. Drivers don't rely on tips for income (legal minimum wage £11.44/hr from 2026).
Black Cabs
- Standard: round up to nearest pound (£8.50 → £10)
- Long ride / heavy luggage: 10% or £2-5
- Airport transfer: 10% or £5
- Bad service: exact fare is acceptable (no tip)
- Cash or card: Both accepted; card terminal often pre-prompts tip
Uber & Bolt
- In-app tipping — optional, prompted after ride
- Suggested: £1, £2, £3 buttons
- Most Brits tip: £0
- If great service: £2-3 nice but not expected
- 5-star ratings matter more than tips for drivers
- Long rides: add £3-5
Minicabs
- Pre-agreed price — tip is purely optional
- £1-2 if driver helps with luggage
- Not expected at all
- Cash often preferred for older minicab firms
Airport Transfers
- Pre-booked transfer — £5-10 if driver carries bags
- Hotel-arranged car — £5-10 standard
- Heathrow Express — no tipping (it's a train)
- Coach service (National Express) — no tipping
- Black cab from airport — round up + 10%
💷 Reality: UK culture is "no tip needed but appreciated". Drivers won't chase you for tips like in some countries. Don't feel obligated.