British pub culture decoded - here's what you need to know

From students to working professionals, the British pub culture scene is enjoyed by all. 

As compared to bars, pubs were made to provide a more communal atmosphere with families getting together to have delicious food and drinks along with great conversations with their loved ones.

Sipping on delicious drinks, placing them on personalised beermats from Mosaic or coasters that are unique, and having a laugh with your family and friends - it does not get better!

This unique social centre serves to focus on community life to bring together people over drinks and food. However, understanding the history of pub culture can help you understand the way it all tied up and what makes a British pub what it is.

We’ve put together information that decodes the British pub culture and has all you need to know about them.

So without further ado, let’s take a look!

The history of pubs

The taverns brought by the Romans were the biggest influence on what we know as pubs. With extensive serving platters of meat, bread and wine cups, these were found mostly in rural areas.

When the Romans finally reached the British-Isles, they came across an established ale-making culture that was primarily done by women. Taverns evolved to ale houses and while some evolved into inns that let guests stay over, those that became what we now know as pubs were different with its own British influences.

These public houses or pubs for short, became increasingly popular for unique and signature English ales that were enjoyed by people of all ages. The other similar yet different establishment to the pub became the American bar that promoted more of a social vibe with people drinking and meeting each other.

The modern pubs - Everything you need to know

From lagers and ales to spirits and beers, pubs serve a variety of drinks that can be enjoyed by all. However, if you’re the designated driver, there are several lighter drinks that you can sip on while making the most of the pub experience.

Pub etiquette 

When it comes to ordering drinks, except gastro pubs where you get table service, you need to order drinks at the bar. While people during peak season will seem like an endless crowd, you need to ensure that you’re following proper pub etiquette. Additionally, you’ll need to make sure that you have your money ready in hand so that as soon as you reach the bar, you can place your order and pay for your drinks immediately. 

If you frequent the pub, you also have the option of starting a tab, your credit or debit cards will be kept on the counter in exchange for a card with a number that they give you and accordingly they add all your drinks to your card.

While the British weather is famous for a very few reasons, on those rare days that you get good sunlight out, it’s not uncommon to spot large groups of people enjoying the weather outdoors.

Another thing you need to keep in mind is that tipping culture isn’t followed across many bars and if you wish to offer your thanks to the staff, you can offer to buy them the drinks.

Food and snack options

While food isn’t something you find at every pub, it’s become increasingly popular to have snacks and food across many. From pies and chips to burgers and steak, there are several snacks that you can have.

As mentioned before, gastropubs have even more options for their patrons to try out with food that is much finer comparatively. While pubs may have few originals, people can generally find something that suits their palate along with complimenting the different drinks.

To sum up…

Now that you have a rough idea of how pubs came to be and what they’re known for, if you’re looking to experience more of the famous British pub culture, what better way to do than by immersing yourself in the experience itself!

Join your friends and family to make the most of the experience over delicious snacks and equally delicious drinks.