Study Backs Pub Crawls — Cheers to Groundbreaking Research.

At last — science has confirmed what landlords and locals have long suspected: the humble pub crawl is good for business. A new study from a prestigious university has found that creating pub trails and walking routes could offer a real boost to the drinks industry — especially at quieter times of the day or week.

The research shows that organised walking routes draw in footfall, encourage customers to explore multiple venues, and increase local spend. For pubs looking to stay competitive, especially in smaller towns or rural areas, the message is clear: work together, signpost your neighbours, and get people moving (ideally, with a drink in hand).

Spare a thought for the researchers behind the findings. While most studies involve labs and spreadsheets, this one likely meant long days navigating pub gardens, juggling clipboards, and taking notes between stops. Fieldwork, in this case, came with a view — and probably a round.

All in the name of data, of course.

Humour aside, the study reinforces what many in the trade already know — pubs are more than just places to grab a drink. They’re community hubs, local landmarks, and often the beating heart of the high street. Creating trail-style collaborations — even something as simple as a printed map or a few posters — could give your midweek or midday trade a lift, and build loyalty that goes beyond the weekend rush.

And this doesn’t have to mean heavy drinking. With the rise in no- and low-alcohol options, a pub walk can appeal to a wider crowd — walkers, tourists, daytrippers, and designated drivers included.

Thinking of creating a local trail? We can help with the kit.

Whether it’s coffee machines for early starters, bottle fridges for busy bar shifts, or back-of-house gear that keeps you moving — we’re here to support the pubs that keep Britain ticking.