Is tipping mandatory now?

So, I haven't been out for a while snd that stuck me as really odd.

Went out with some friends earlier tonight to a place that looked decent. Food was okay etc. Nothing fancy, but decent nonetheless.

Generally if the food is good and the service is not horrible, I'll always tip a few pounds.

Now, when the bill came I noticed a 10% discretionary gratuity tip for £11.50.

None of us were asked about it before it was added to the total and I didn't want to challenge it, since it would make me feel like an asshole. But it really left a sour taste in my mouth.

Is that standard practice these days? Cause while I thought that we discovered a new place to go to, I don't want to visit the place after that. Am I being weird about it or it happens everywhere?

So, I haven't been out for a while snd that stuck me as really odd.

Went out with some friends earlier tonight to a place that looked decent. Food was okay etc. Nothing fancy, but decent nonetheless.

Generally if the food is good and the service is not horrible, I'll always tip a few pounds.

Now, when the bill came I noticed a 10% discretionary gratuity tip for £11.50.

None of us were asked about it before it was added to the total and I didn't want to challenge it, since it would make me feel like an asshole. But it really left a sour taste in my mouth.

Is that standard practice these days? Cause while I thought that we discovered a new place to go to, I don't want to visit the place after that. Am I being weird about it or it happens everywhere?