With more Brits embracing healthier lifestyles, running clubs booming, and low- and no-alcohol drinks surging in popularity, new data from OLBG.com reveals which UK cities are the most health-conscious when it comes to pub choices.
Birmingham & Cambridge top our list, among survey respondents
Topping the list are Birmingham and Cambridge, where 28% of residents opt for low- or alcohol-free drinks when visiting a pub.
London follows closely behind at 24%, reflecting the capital’s increasing demand for health-conscious drinking options.
Top UK Cities for Pub Games
| UK Cities | Health-Conscious Options (Alcohol-Free Drinks) |
| Birmingham | 28% |
| Cambridge | 28% |
| London | 24% |
| Bristol | 21% |
| Bath | 19% |
| Edinburgh | 19% |
| Liverpool | 19% |
| Oxford | 19% |
| Glasgow | 18% |
| Newcastle upon Tyne | 17% |
| Sheffield | 17% |
| Belfast | 13% |
| Manchester | 13% |
| Southampton | 10% |
| Exeter | 8% |
A Growing Trend in Health-Conscious Drinking
The UK’s low- and no-alcohol market has seen significant growth in recent years, fuelled by:
- The rise of running clubs & fitness culture
- More people taking part in Dry January & Sober October
- Increased demand for alcohol-free beers, spirits & cocktails
- Younger generations drinking less than ever before
Over half of UK Pubs still have Fruit Machines
In 2019, the auditing firm CLMS found that taking from fruit machines in pubs fell by an estimated £600 million in the decade, and an average decrease of 25%, so OLBG.comwanted to explore how often fruit machines are still being used in pubs across the UK.
Our survey revealed that 50% of Brits who visit pubs have played, or still play, fruit machines when they’re available. Additionally, 60% noted that these machines are still present in their local pubs.
The data also showed that 35% of pub-goers occasionally use fruit machines on a regular basis, while 23% consider it an enjoyable activity, though not the primary reason for their visit.
People surveyed said that their perfect pub was: “A pub where the floor is covered with red-coloured rugs, some bingo and fruit machines, leather sofas, and a couple of pool tables – and finally, I’d prefer the beer selection to be as varied as it gets.
“My favourite pub looks traditional, it has a good selection of hand-pulled bitters. It isn’t busy but isn’t quiet. It has really comfy seats to sit, and where you would be happy all night. In winter, a real fire can be a huge draw too.”
When it comes to entertainment, many agree that: “An Ideal pub features a cozy interior with wooden furnishings, a well-stacked bar, and a friendly atmosphere. It should include amenities like sports on TV, pool tables, bingo nights, fruit machines, live music, etc.”
If you would like to see the full study, more information can be found on site:
