Thinking Drinkers tandem challenge highlights great pubs and licensees

Cycle ride aims to cast attention on the sector's plight
Cycling adventure: Thinking Drinkers Ben McFarland Tom Sandham set to cycle from Lands End to John O'Groats (James O’Connell)

The two drinks presenters, who hit the road on a tandem to focus attention on the plight of the pub sector, are on the home straight as they hit the Scottish Highlands on The Great British Pub Ride.

Comedians and presenters Tom Sandham and Ben McFarland, who are known as the Thinking Drinkers and for their mantra “Drink Less, Drink Better”, are in the final days of their cycle ride in the Scottish Highlands.

They have been documenting their ride, which covered Lands End to John O’ Groats, and have been visiting, staying in and showcasing the role that pubs and the great licensees that run them, have in their local communities.

Important spaces

On their YouTube channel, the duo have been highlighting their journey and the pubs they have visited on the way.

They also wrote: “Having a place where people can really connect and chat is huge, especially now.”

In another update they said: “Lots of good chats with pub owners today. Another reminder that pubs aren’t just places to drink. They’re important community spaces and music venues, facing growing challenges.”

Community spirit

After a visit to one pub, who handed them personalised gift packs, they said: “The community spirit in that place? Like walking into someone’s living room, in the best possible way. These are the kinds of pubs that matter, and it’s gutting to hear how hard it is for them to keep going”

You can see their journey on their YouTube channel where they show their crashing tandem, injuries, challenges along with great pubs and publicans.