Brief Overview
The cost of a cup of Starbucks coffee in London can vary drastically depending on your drink of choice and the size of the portion. Typically, a standard cup of drip coffee from Starbucks in London can range from £2.00 to £2.95 for a regular size. For cappuccino, lattes, and other speciality beverages, prices start at around £2.75 for a regular cup and rise to around £4.35 for a venti size.
The cost of a cup of Starbucks coffee in London also depends on the location of the store. A Starbucks inside a large airport or transportation hub can have considerably higher prices than a regular cafe. It’s wise to check the menu before ordering to make sure you understand how much your beverage will cost.
In addition to the cost of the coffee itself, guests at Starbucks in London can expect to pay a surcharge if they order a beverage to go. This fee is typically 75 pence, but can be higher in some locations.
Factors Affecting Cost
The cost of a cup of Starbucks coffee in London can vary depending on several factors. Firstly, the size of the cup does make a difference. For budget-minded coffee drinkers, a regular size cup is the most affordable option. While for people who enjoy large portions, the venti size is the best choice.
The type of coffee also plays a role in determining the cost. A plain latte from Starbucks in London starts at around £2.95 for a regular size and rises to around £4.35 for a venti size. If you order a speciality drink, such as a pumpkin spiced latte, the price will be even higher.
Finally, the location of the store can affect the cost of a cup of Starbucks coffee in London. A cafe located inside a high-end shopping mall or within a transportation hub will typically charge more than a regular store. It’s important to check the menu before ordering to make sure you understand how much your beverage will cost.
Taxes and Surcharges
In addition to the cost of the coffee itself, guests at Starbucks in London should also be prepared to pay taxes and surcharges. The price of coffee includes the Value Added Tax (VAT), which is a tax charged on most goods and services in the UK. Typical VAT rates for most coffee drinks range from 17.5% to 20%.
In addition, guests at Starbucks may be charged a surcharge for ordering a beverage to go. This fee is typically 75 pence, but can be higher in some locations. This fee is intended to help offset the cost of providing packaging and disposing of waste.
It’s also important to note that Starbucks may occasionally offer promotional deals or discounts, such as buy-one-get-one-free or discounted cups of coffee. These deals can help save money, but are typically only available for a limited amount of time.
Additional Expenses
When budgeting for a cup of Starbucks coffee in London, it’s important to consider additional expenses such as tips. In the UK, it is common to add gratuity to the final bill at a cafe or restaurant. While the exact amount is up to the individual, 10% is typically considered a standard tip.
Additionally, guests may be charged extra fees for adding additional ingredients to their coffee, such as syrups or whipped cream. It’s wise to ask about any additional charges before ordering to avoid an unpleasant surprise at the register.
Finally, it’s important to remember that ordering a cup of Starbucks coffee in London means forgoing the opportunity to eat a meal at a local restaurant. While a single cup of coffee may seem relatively inexpensive, the cumulative costs of multiple cups can add up quickly.
Ordering a Budget-Friendly Beverage
If you’re looking for ways to save money while still enjoying a cup of Starbucks coffee in London, there are several options. Firstly, ordering a regular size cup of drip coffee is typically the most affordable option. For those looking for more flavor, adding a flavor shot or espresso shot can provide additional taste without significantly increasing the cost.
Additionally, ordering a latte or cappuccino to stay is usually much cheaper than ordering a to-go cup. It’s important to keep in mind that drinks ordered to stay don’t include a surcharge or extra packaging costs, which can help keep your costs down.
Finally, it’s wise to look out for promotional deals or discounts. While these aren’t always available, they can offer great savings when they are. Take advantage of promotions when they are offered and combine them with sensible ordering practices to keep your costs down.
Drinking Alternatives
Budget-minded guests may also want to consider other options for enjoying a cup of coffee while in London. A traditional British Pub can offer a cosy atmosphere and a far more affordable cup of brewed coffee than Starbucks. Additionally, some grocery stores or convenience stores may offer hand-poured coffee at a much lower cost.
Finally, taking advantage of the excellent public transportation in London can open up fresh new opportunities for finding a cup of excellent brewed coffee. Portobello Road, for example, is home to dozens of small independent cafes and coffee shops, many of which offer espresso drinks at a fraction of the cost of Starbucks.
The Bottom Line
The cost of a cup of Starbucks coffee in London can vary depending on your order size, beverage of choice and the location of the store. Budget-minded coffee drinkers should take advantage of promotional offers and consider ordering drinks to stay rather than to go to keep costs down. Additionally, looking outside of Starbucks can provide a worthwhile alternative to those looking to save money and enjoy a cup of coffee while in London.
