New data hints at ‘North-South drinking divide’ as northern hospitality scene continues to flourish – and pubs come out on top 

New data from Northern Restaurant & Bar (NRB) and CGA by NielsenIQ has reaffirmed northern England’s reputation as the UK’s ‘pub paradise’, with pub and bar visits in the North increasing by 4% in 2024.

By contrast, the South has experienced a 1% decline during the same period, highlighting the North’s unwavering love for a pint – even as the rest of the country shifts its habits.

Reinforcing the North’s strong pub culture, northerners have also been shown to be ‘6% more likely to enjoy additional drinks’ during a night out, with fewer people cutting back on their drinking compared to the South. The percentage of people reducing their alcohol consumption on a night out is 20% higher in the South, pointing to the age-old trope that southerners can’t handle their booze at the same rate as northerners.

The data shows that the success of pubs in the North isn’t just down to locals loving a booze, though: across all key customer experience metrics, pubs in the North outperformed their southern counterparts, ranking higher on food and drink quality, service standards, wait times, and overall visit satisfaction.

The signature northern warmth that is central to the region’s hospitality style has played a part in the growth of venues outside of watering holes too, with the North’s broader food and drink scene described as ‘thriving’ by NRB.

Siobhan Thompson, event manager at NRB, commented: “The data confirms what we’ve always known – Northern pubs aren’t just places to drink, they’re part of the very fabric of life up here. Northern pubs remain deeply rooted in the region’s culture, with cherished venues not just surviving but thriving.

“Exceptional service and high levels of customer satisfaction in the North are driving increased visits and spending, which is a promising indicator for the broader hospitality sector in the region. The year-on-year growth we’re seeing is fantastic news for everyone in the pub industry, from breweries and suppliers to pub landlords.

“Our report also shows the North as outstripping the rest of Great Britain in terms of new openings. Despite recent years being hugely challenging for the hospitality industry, there’s a real feeling that the sector is thriving up North.”

While northern pubs continue to thrive, nightclubs in the region have seen a significant 5% drop in engagement since 2023, likely reflecting the enduring difficulties that the nightlife sector is facing all over the UK.

Northern Restaurant and Bar will be opening in Manchester on 11-12 March to celebrate the achievements of operators of all types across the North. The two-day event aims to foster further growth across the region and provide a platform for trade operators, suppliers and industry leaders to connect and collaborate. It is anticipated that the event, hosted at Manchester Central, will welcome 400 exhibitors and over 10,000 visitors.