Analysis by small business comparison site Bionic found that northern towns dominate the lowest price points, while southern markets account for the highest average costs.
Cheapest locations for a pint
- Bury – £2.50
- Burnley – £3.00
- Darlington – £3.00
- Burton upon Trent – £3.25
- Blackburn – £3.25
- Bradford – £3.25
- Hartlepool – £3.25
- Doncaster – £3.25
- Blackpool – £3.50
- Kingston upon Hull – £3.50
Most expensive locations for a pint
- Oxford – £6.75
- Brighton and Hove – £6.50
- London – £6.50
- Guildford – £6.50
- Reading – £6.50
- Basingstoke – £6.50
- Harlow – £6.50
- Woking – £6.25
- Edinburgh – £6.00
- Belfast – £6.00
The data shows the pricing variation across the country, with a difference of more than £4 between the cheapest and most expensive locations (Belfast and Oxford, respectively).
While regional differences remain pronounced, The Morning Advertiser’s (MA) own Pint Price Survey shows the overall cost of a pint has continued to rise, with the average draught price reaching £5.17 in 2025 based on submissions from operators across the UK.
Long-term data also highlights how significantly pricing has shifted over the past decade, with the average pint now well above historical consumer expectations.
Rising input costs across wages, energy, duty and supply chains have been key drivers behind the increases, forcing operators to balance margin protection with consumer affordability.
Despite this, the latest data suggests price sensitivity remains location dependent, with lower pricing still achievable in parts of the North, while stronger demand and higher operating costs continue to support elevated price points in the South East.
The findings come as operators enter the peak spring and summer trading period, with beer garden season expected to test how far consumers are willing to absorb further increases.
