Forget artisan charcuterie boards and trendy spritzers. According to new research from Star Pubs, the nation’s “perfect pub” is a far more traditional affair, defined by salted nuts, a jukebox, and a landlord who knows your usual order.
The study into what modern Brits truly value in their local reveals that the classic British institution is alive and well. A staggering 85% of people consider the pub a Great British Institution, with 83% describing their local as their “happy place” and 75% viewing it as the heart of their community.
The Ingredients of a Perfect Pub
When it comes to the must-have features of a dream local, a Sunday roast tops the food list, while a beer garden is the ultimate structural requirement. The findings highlight a clear preference for comfort and community over “fancy” modern trends:
- Atmosphere: A beer garden for summer (51%), an open fire (43%), and a countryside location (27%).
- Food & Drink: A cracking Sunday roast (46%), a range of quality beers (38%), and ice-cold lager on tap (30%). Traditional snacks like fish and chips (28%), salted nuts (17%), and a Ploughman’s lunch (17%) are still the preferred choice.
- The Social Factor: Live music at the weekend (31%), a weekly pub quiz (24%), and a jukebox (18%).
- The Personal Touch: Having bar staff who know your name (29%) and being served your usual drink without having to ask (19%).
Build Your Own Dream Pub
To celebrate these findings, Star Pubs has launched the Dream Pub Studio, an interactive digital game that lets you build your own virtual local. In a Sims-style experience, users can design everything from the walls and floors to the décor, food menus, and even the bar staff. Once finished, the design transforms into a 3D model that can be shared with friends.
Hance McPherson, Head of Licensee Attraction at Star Pubs, said:
“Pubs have always held a special place in British life, and this research shows just how important they remain to our communities. From open fires and great Sunday roasts to friendly landlords. We’re now giving everyone the chance to design their perfect local.”
With two-thirds of Brits admitting they look forward to their trip to the “boozer” all day, the study proves that the simple pleasures, like dog bowls for four-legged friends (20%) and a game of pool (27%), are what keep the heart of the community beating.
