Tipping Housekeeping: What Every Loch Ness Guest Should Know

Staying by the famous loch is a treat, but the little things you do for staff can make the experience even better. One of those things is tipping the people who clean your room. It’s quick, easy, and shows appreciation. Below you’ll find straight‑forward advice that works whether you’re in a boutique hotel, a cozy cottage, or a budget inn.

When to Tip and How Much

The safest rule is to tip at the end of your stay. That way the housekeeper who actually cleaned your room gets the money. If you’re staying more than three nights, you can leave a smaller amount each day – it keeps things fair if staff rotate.

In Scotland, a tip of £1‑£2 per night is normal for standard hotels. For a luxury lodge overlooking the loch, you might bump it to £3‑£5. If the service was exceptional – extra towels, a quick response to a request – add a few pounds on top. The aim is to keep it simple: cash in an envelope or a small note saying “Thank you” works best.

Tips for Different Types of Accommodation

**Boutique hotels** often have a single housekeeping team, so a single tip at checkout is enough. Some places include a service charge, so check the bill first. If you see a 10 % charge labeled “service,” you’re already covered.

**Self‑catered cottages** usually don’t have daily cleaning. If the owner provides a cleaning service, a tip of £5‑£10 after the final clean is polite. If you booked through a platform that handles cleaning, you can still leave a small thank‑you note and cash for the local staff.

**Budget inns or B&Bs** often rely on owners doing the cleaning themselves. In this case, a tip of £2‑£3 per night is appreciated, but you can also give a larger amount at the end if you felt especially cared for.

Don’t forget to tip during special requests. If you ask for extra blankets or a late‑night cleaning, a quick £1‑£2 addition shows you value the extra effort.

Keep the cash discreet. Slip it under the pillow, leave it on the nightstand, or use a small envelope. Avoid leaving it in the bathroom where it can get wet.

What if you’re traveling on a tight budget? Even a small tip of £0.50 per night signals respect. Most staff understand that travelers have different means, and the gesture matters more than the amount.

Finally, remember that tipping is optional, not mandatory. If the hotel already includes a service charge or you’re simply not satisfied with the cleaning, you’re not obliged to tip. The key is to be honest and courteous.

Enjoy the stunning views of Loch Ness, the fresh air, and the warm hospitality. A quick tip for housekeeping rounds out a great trip and helps the local staff keep the place sparkling for the next guest.