Nearly half of Brits dream of opening and running their own pubs

15 February 2024 , 08:39

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Four in 10 Brits dream of running their own pub establishment (The Cartvale Pub) (Image: Star Pubs)

Four in 10 adults dream of running their own pub and even have a name lined up - with 'The Royal Oak' topping the list of names for a local.

Research among 2,000 adults revealed 41% are already considering the name of their future establishment. And for those in need of some inspiration in the name stakes, a ‘My Pub Builder’ generator has been developed to not only determine the ideal name - but also bring your dream pub to life visually.

The tool was developed by Star Pubs & Bars and draws inspiration from the UK's favourite pub names. ‘The Moon Under the Water’ and ‘The White Hart’ followed ‘The Royal Oak’ as the second and third most popular options.

Hance McPherson from the pub chain, said: “For many, our local pub is a cherished escape from daily life, so it’s no wonder so many people dream of being in charge and running their own.”

Aspiring publicans also envision offering an array of features at their dream establishment, including quiz nights (44%), live music (44%) and community fundraising events (27%).

Widow brings pillow with late husband's face on it to pub every New Year's Eve

While 13% would like to put on a vegan menu – with respondents in Wales and London most likely to offer this, and one in 10 would put in old-school arcade machines and half would insist on having a spacious beer garden for summer months.

Despite these desires, concerns about potential costs (37%) and lack of experience (43%) pose as barriers to pursuing the dream of running their own pub.

Hance McPherson from Star Pubs & Bars, which provides training and support to those looking to make the dream a reality, added: “Is becoming a pub licensee truly within reach? Definitely. We want to help motivated individuals to build their dream hospitality careers. We focus on supporting people that have the vision and transferable skills to turn their ambitions into a reality.”

UK’S FAVOURITE PUB NAMES:

1. Royal Oak
2. Moon Under The Water
3. White Hart
4. The Plough
5. Red Lion
6. King’s Arms
7. Coach And Horses
8. King’s Head
9. The Fat Cat
10. Railway Inn
11. White Swan
12. Rising Sun
13. George And Dragon
14. The Crown
15. White Horse
16. Wheatsheaf
17. Cat And Custard Pot
18. Black Horse
19. The Bell
20. Queen’s Arms
21. Travellers Rest
22. The Swan
23. Greyhound
24. My Father’s Moustache
25. The Fox
26. Cross Keys
27. The George
28. Prince Of Wales
29. The Anchor
30. Bird In The Hand
31. Black Lion
32. Cricketers
33. Three Horseshoes
34. The Cottage Inn
35. The Jolly Taxpayer
36. Golden Lion
37. Pony And Trap
38. The Star
39. Duke Of York
40. The Barley Mow

Sarah Lumley