What Makes A Charismatic British Pub?

As a nation we Brits can’t resist a drink or two down at the local pub; but what is it that makes a truly charismatic British pub? Is it the people, or the quirky atmosphere that makes it quintessentially British?

The pub is entwined with British culture, we see it as a place to relax with friends, drink and take part in a bit of banter. It’s no surprise that British pub culture dates as far back as the Roman times when taverns were first established, today in modern Britain there are approximately 53,000 pubs across Britain, so plenty of places to have a pint.

However what makes the difference between a local pub we all enjoy and love and one that we avoid at all cost?

Well firstly a pub with charisma isn’t much good without a good selection of drinks. Everyone has their favourite drink and if you’re local isn’t supplying a good variety of booze then you’re not going to enjoy yourself. There’s one thing to have charm and look pretty but if that’s at the cost of a dirty pint then you might as well stay at home.

One of the essential attributes of an appealing public house is the atmosphere of the place. George Orwell a famous author and Journalist once wrote in a column for The Evening Standard about why he loved his local pub (The Moon under the Water). He said,

“If you are asked why you favour a particular public-house, it would seem natural to put the beer first, but the thing that most appeals to me about the Moon under the Water is what people call its atmosphere.”

And sure enough that’s what makes an appealing British pub… the atmosphere. In Britain today where large chain pubs lack the essential essence of tradition, it can be hard to find a British pub that has the individuality and character that we Brits crave.

But what makes a good atmosphere?

Well being surrounded by friends always helps to cheers a beer,  but it takes more than that – friendly, welcoming staff and a landlord/lady with winning personalities, who are not just there to take your money but also chip in with the banter and generally have a laugh - certainly contributes to a great night in the local. 

That’s not all though; some classic entertainment, such as a karaoke night, or a pool tournament, also adds to the buzz and chatter about the place. To some, a karaoke it might seem be a bit tacky a but there’s nothing funnier than seeing your Dad belt out Bohemian Rhapsody on the jukebox and if that doesn’t tickle your fancy then you can’t beat a pub quiz to lighten the mood and liven the atmosphere. A pool tournament, on the other hand, brings the punters together for a more heads-down piece of entertainment; but the type which still adds some definitive flair.

Another sporting trait that adds to the atmosphere is a good game of football. A nation of Brits in love with the beautiful game, and there’s nothing we love more then to cheer our team on or see England get knocked out of the world cup.

The atmosphere in a pub on match days can be electric, especially before a world cup game. Fair enough England never win, but you can’t beat the buzz of an England goal in the pub.

Then there are the finer touches; such as some welcoming plantation, or decorations and ornaments which are representative of a pubs location. This could range from sports trophies to paintings or pictures of local heroes, and all the other locals which make up the thriving community.

And who can forget the all-important pub garden for those lazy summer days. Either as a tourist, or a resident of the UK, you could travel the length and breadth of every pub in the country and still come across a garden which blows you away for its elegance and beauty. Ultimately, the quality of the garden is dependent on the pubs location.

An idyllic countryside spot usually comes up trumps for being backed onto a lake, a mill, a harbour, or just a breath taking view, for example. Although many pubs located in cities have made a highly imaginative use of their limited spaces, and therefore have to be commended. Additionally, the cultural diversity of cities, when compared to smaller towns, can impact on the pubs’ layout, such as quirky artwork, tropical plants and even a selection on the jukebox which ventures further than the current chart hits.

Beer festivals are another summertime tradition, and a great chance to try out a larger array of weird and wonderful drinks… and get tanked in the process. Not every pub hosts a beer festival, but if you’re near one that does, then that’s usually a sign of a good pub. Join in with the community, listen to some local music and have a merry old knees-up, but be sure to get a taxi home.

The characteristics of a British pub all lead down to the fundamental reason to what makes a charismatic British pub – it has to be British! As a nation, no one does the local like us. Its atmosphere could not be produced anywhere else but in Britain. You’re not going to get pork scratching’s anywhere else are you?

This article was produced on behalf of Home Leisure Direct - bringing all your favourite pub games to the home; with a huge selection of pool tables, football tables, jukeboxes and more.

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