Brits are happiest down the pub
The poll of 2,000 Brits saw more than a quarter admit they feel happiest when enjoying time in their local. One in five Brits also visit their local so often they are on first-name terms with the bar staff and landlord, the research said.
The survey, conducted by OnePoll.com, to celebrate Cask Ale Week, which is currently running until October 1, also found that a third (33%) of Brits surveyed also laugh the most at the pub, twice as many as those that have a giggle at work and more than at their friends’ houses.
And it was also revealed to be the most likely place to catch up with friends, outstripping cafés, restaurants and the gym.
Brits visit the pub twice a month on average, and three in 10 say they often escape to the pub when they’re feeling stressed or annoyed.
Catching up with friends was voted as the number-one reason that Brits love to get to the pub, general atmosphere was a close second and the chance to have a few drinks was the third most popular.
Four in 10 Brits say they would make a special trip to visit a pub that serves their favourite beer, and lager was revealed to be the most common drink, with a pint of cask ale coming a close second.
St Austell’s home country of Cornwall came top for the best brewing quality regionally-produced beer.
The greatest pub meal was voted fish and chips, with two in 10 selecting the dish over all other choices on the menu. One in 10 said they would opt for a classic burger and chips, or a ploughman’s lunch.
“There’s never been more choice on the bar, but what remains most important is quality. Great cask beer is unsurpassable and an integral part of British pub culture and Cask Ale Week is a celebration of just that,” said Tribute Cornish pale ale’s spokesperson.
“We’d encourage everyone to get out to their local pub with friends or loved ones and celebrate Cask Ale Week with a pint of the good stuff – enjoyed responsibly.”
Roger Protz, editor of the latest Good Beer Guide, said: “The British pub is unique and it has a character and atmosphere that could never be replaced.
“It’s reassuring that people still recognise that there is no better place for people to meet, enjoy a beer, strike up a conversation, meet new friends and put the world to rights.
“Pubs are not only the heart of the community, but they are an institution and synonymous with British culture and it’s vital that we continue to support them.”
TOP 10 REASONS WE LOVE THE PUB
1. Catching up with friends
2. The atmosphere
3. The opportunity to have a few drinks
4. Laughing with friends
5. The food
6. Somewhere I can drink real ale
7. It’s close to home
8. Having a romantic night with partner
9. Playing pool
10. Playing fruit/quiz machines
