Pub of the future Pt.2

Series: Pub of the future

Tags: Pubs

A positive look at how pubs are changing for the better, and how thriving pubs might look in the not-too-distant future. In this second instalment of Pub of the Future Katie Mather focuses on how the function of pubs within our communities is ever changing. Katie explores how pubs can adapt to serve their communities in new ways and maintain their central role in society post-covid.

Katie Mather

A beer blogger-turned-food and drink writer, with regular work featured in Beer52’s Ferment magazine and Pellicle magazine. Co-owner of Corto, a neighbourhood beer, natural cider and wine bar in Clitheroe. Loves pubs.

Pubs as Spaces for Boosting Community and Tourism
Transforming Vacant High Street Spaces
Reclaiming a Central Role in Our Communities

Our favourite pubs become dear to our hearts for different reasons. A special, historic inn can feel like a rare chance to step back in time to your favourite beer’s glory days; while a new micropub can feel warm and welcoming in a fresh, inclusive way.

As society has changed over the centuries, pubs and bars have adapted. We often use our locals in different ways now, taking for granted their new and useful offerings. As pubs have struggled to survive in recent decades during multiple recessions and a global pandemic — but the way they interact with their local communities and the visiting guests they attract has been essential to their future on our high streets. Here are some of the ways our pubs may continue to change as we look to a future where pubs are central to our communities.

Pubs as Spaces for Boosting Community and Tourism

The British pub is an icon around the world. A place of warmth and friendship — and of course, great beer and interesting architecture and décor — pubs are tourist attractions in their own right. As mentioned in Part One of this series, some community pubs have secured their futures by becoming local shops, even libraries, diversifying their space to suit the needs of their locals. However, some pubs have ensured their survival by building their tourist appeal. By updating their websites and Google Business profiles to show off their unique “pubness” they’re bringing in a host of explorers who might not have ventured into a stoic old pub before. Attractions can be anything: ancient relics hung above the mantelpiece, famous former patrons, witchy carvings on the roof beams, even ghosts and spooky stories bring in a new crowd.