More than three quarters of Brits – some 76% – are more likely to visit a pub that puts on fun, wacky or arty activities, according to research by Greene King
Pubs are having to pull in punters with painting classes, bingo, balloon twisting, and murder mystery theme nights, new data shows.
More than three quarters of Brits – some 76% – are more likely to visit a pub that puts on fun, wacky or arty activities, according to research by Greene King.
The pub chain said 85% of UK adults were more likely to come back to a tavern after attending cheery or quirky events there.
Its findings suggest the promise of pints, pork scratchings and a game of arrows are no longer enough to entice modern Brits to frequent their local.
Elsewhere, a separate study by The Morning Advertiser found major pubcos, including Mitchells & Butlers, Fuller’s, Marston’s, Shepherd Neame, and Young’s, had all increased the amount of social activities offered at their venues since 2024. The pub trade newspaper said all of them had vowed to up entertainment and games offered at their thousands of watering holes to lure in customers.
Greene King’s Crown & Horseshoes in Enfield, north London, charges locals £30 per person for its regular ‘paint and fizz’ events. The classes are led by an artist, with those taking part receiving painting materials, two drinks and snacks.
Other events held at the boozer include balloon twisting and minibeast bug spotting in the beer garden.
Fuller’s said it was now hosting murder mystery nights, bingo, and wreath making at its inns.
While The Bear in Oxshott, Surrey, draws in crowds with flowering arranging sessions, wine glass painting classes, and last month, a pumpkin-carving course for Halloween revellers.
Hospitality expert, Saxon Moseley, from accountants RSM UK, told the trade journal: “Gen Z are spearheading a broader trend towards healthier drinking choices and seeking out new experiences, so pubs are diversifying their offerings to attract a new generation through their doors.”
For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletter by clicking here.
#Pubs #hosting #painting #classes #bingo #balloon #twisting #wacky #nights
