Gaby
If you’re looking for an opportunity to gather with friends and enjoy a pint this weekend, look no further than a new study. Its findings are sure to inspire and uplift you.
According to researchers at York University in the UK, pub outings can boost happiness levels and foster a unique sense of community.
Professor Victoria Wells, who led the study, told the Daily Mail that visiting pubs combines novelty, excitement, ritual, social interaction, and a temporary escape from routine. All of these elements contribute to an emotional high.
“Our research showed that these visits enhance individual happiness, create opportunities for social interaction, foster a sense of belonging, and encourage people to explore local areas and places they haven’t been before,” said Professor Wells, affectionately dubbed the “pub professor.”
And if beer enthusiasts participate in themed or costume events at pubs, travel between different locations, or attend specialized festivals, they gain truly unforgettable experiences. Professor Wells even claims that sharing a hangover the next morning can become part of that unique experience.
Pubs Strengthen Community and Boost the Economy
Large organized pub crawls are often boisterous nighttime events, ending with groups of inebriated individuals continuing their conversations on the streets into the early hours.
However, new research has shown that this lively nightlife is often just what people need. Pub outings are not merely about consuming alcoholic beverages; they are part of a broader social, emotional, and geographical experience.
Professor Katherine Arnold, a co-author of the study, noted, “A pub crawl is like a tasting menu of nightlife; it’s not just about visiting one venue, but a journey through several, each offering its unique atmosphere, crowd, and drink selection.” As groups move together, they form connections through shared experiences. This could be singing on the street, raising a toast together, or donning elaborate costumes, Ms. Arnold explained.
Researchers also emphasized that pubs not only strengthen social ties but also help preserve local traditions and support the local economy.
This is particularly important given that pubs are currently facing significant economic pressure and are closing in droves. In the UK, 50 pubs shut down every month. According to a recent report, 303 pubs closed in the country in just the first three months of 2025.
While crowded pub crawls are often criticized for allegedly encouraging antisocial behavior, researchers are confident that well-organized events of this kind can benefit everyone.
The study’s findings were published in the International Journal of Hospitality Management.
