UK's Cheapest and Most Expensive Pint Locations Revealed
As warmer weather approaches and beer garden season beckons, many Britons look forward to enjoying a refreshing pint in the sun. However, not all pubs offer the same value, with significant price disparities across the country. According to recent data, the average cost of a pint in the UK has surged to £4.85, marking a sharp 27.6% increase from £3.80 in 2025. Despite this overall rise, there are still pockets where you can find a pint for less than £3, offering relief amid the ongoing cost-of-living squeeze.
Where to Find the Cheapest Pints
Topping the list for affordability is Bury in Greater Manchester, where the typical pint costs just £2.50. This town boasts over 35 pubs with impressive ratings ranging from 4.2 to 4.9 stars, making it an ideal destination for a wallet-friendly night out, as reported by the Express. Following closely is Burnley, where the average pint sits at £3.00, tying with Darlington for second place.
Other notable affordable locations include Burton Upon Trent, Blackburn, Bradford, Hartlepool, and Doncaster, all with average pint prices of £3.25. Blackpool and Kingston Upon Hull round out the list at £3.50 each. These areas provide a stark contrast to the national average, highlighting regional variations in pub pricing.
The Most Expensive Pint Destinations
On the opposite end of the spectrum, Oxford claims the dubious honour of having the most expensive pints in the UK, with an average cost of £6.75. This staggering price is 170% higher than the cheapest found in Bury. Surprisingly, London does not top this list but shares second place with an average of £6.50, alongside Brighton and Hove, Guildford, Reading, and Basingstoke.
Further down the list, Harlow and Woking also feature with prices of £6.50 and £6.25 respectively. Notably, Edinburgh in Scotland and Belfast in Northern Ireland both have average pint costs of £6.00, showing that high prices are not confined to England alone.
Implications for Consumers
This data, compiled by the small business comparison site Bionic, underscores the wide range of pint prices across the UK. For budget-conscious drinkers, targeting towns like Bury or Burnley could lead to significant savings, especially during the upcoming beer garden season. Conversely, those visiting or living in areas like Oxford or London should be prepared for higher costs, which may influence their pub choices.
The findings also reflect broader economic trends, such as inflation and regional cost disparities, impacting leisure spending. As the cost-of-living crisis continues, such insights can help consumers make more informed decisions about where to socialise without breaking the bank.
