Star Pubs Research Reveals What Pubgoers Want from Their Ideal Local

New insights from Star Pubs, a part of HEINEKEN UK, has highlighted the features pubgoers value most from their local, providing operators with a clear steer on where to focus investment and operational improvement in the months ahead.

The study reinforces the enduring importance of atmosphere, food quality and community connection in driving repeat visits. An open fire (43%), comfortable seating (48%), and dog‑friendly touches like water bowls (20%) all scored highly pointing to the continued value of warm, inviting spaces that encourage dwell time.

Food remains central to customer expectations, with a Sunday roast (46%) topping the list of must‑have dishes. Other staples such as burgers (32%), fish and chips (28%), and classic pub grub continue to shape consumer decision‑making, signalling ongoing demand for dependable comfort dishes.

Outdoor space also remains a powerful draw, with more than half of respondents (51%) saying a beer garden is essential for summer visits. Meanwhile, basics such as clean, well‑maintained toilets, highlighted by 64%, continue to be essential hygiene factors that meaningfully influence satisfaction.

Entertainment plays a crucial role in weekly footfall, with live music (31%), pub quizzes (24%), and sport on TV (20%) ranking as key expectations. The research also underlines the social role pubs play in their communities: 75% say their local is the heart of the community, and 74% consider their landlord a key community figure.

In fact, 83% of pubgoers describe their local as their ‘happy place,’ and more than half say they have met some of their closest friends in a pub. 32% are on first‑name terms with their landlord, highlighting the ongoing importance of personal, community‑focused service.

To celebrate the individuality of pubs and reflect the diverse tastes highlighted in the research, Star Pubs has launched Dream Pub Studio which is an online tool that allows users to design their own virtual venue, from décor and layout to food and drink offer. Once completed, the pub becomes a 3D render that can be shared online.

Hance McPherson, Head of Licensee Attraction at Star Pubs, which commissioned the study said: “Pubs have always held a special place in British life, and this research shows just how important they remain to our communities. From open fires and great Sunday roasts to friendly landlords, it is clear that people value certain elements over others and the creation of the ‘dream pub’ needs to a reflection of the community.

As we do with all our leased & tenanted pubs, we want to celebrate that individuality - with Dream Pub Studio we’re giving everyone the chance to design their perfect local - a space which reflects their own tastes and the role the pub plays in daily lives.”

Star Pubs, part of HEINEKEN UK, operates around 2,400 leased and tenanted pubs nationwide. The business continues to invest in high‑quality operators, community‑focused refurbishments and market‑leading operational support.

Click here to access Dream Pub Studio: https://www.starpubs.co.uk/dream-pub-studio/