That is the question. As Americans, we are a nation of tippers. The reason for this is that people in the service industry (waiters, bartenders, etc) tend to make less than minimum wage and work for tips. This tends to result in either really good (gotta make that $$$) or really bad customer service (who wants to work for peanuts?).
As we are a tipping nation, we feel the need to continue this tradition here in the UK. However, by in large, this is not necessary. For one, UK service workers make at least minimum wage and therefore do not have to work for tips. Also tipping is somthing that the Brits do not do in general. Hence, the customer service here can be, well, crap.
Now on occasion some resturants will add a service charge to your bill and you unfortunately have to pay it no matter how bad the service was. Some resturants will even state that the charge is "discretionary". So in theory, you can request that it be removed, especially if you receive crap service, right? Wrong! Instead you'll probably just end up arguing with the manager over a measly £6.
Also as most Brits are aware of the American tipping culture, they will try to guilt you into giving them a tip. If you are on a date or businiess lunch, grin and bear it. Otherwise, immediately tell them to go fuck themselse. Unless of course, you have received really good sevice. In which case, tip away.
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