Study Reveals Best UK Locations for Sports Pub-Going
A new study commissioned by VELO has identified Doncaster and the City of Westminster as the top locations in the UK where sports fans are most likely to secure a seat in a pub to watch live events. The research, based on a poll of 2,000 adults, highlights the enduring popularity of pub-based sports viewing during the summer months.
According to the survey, 75% of adults plan to watch sport this summer, spending an average of more than 21 hours in the pub. During these outings, fans consume around 24 drinks and participate in approximately 23 songs or chants. Nearly half (47%) intend to watch tennis, while over a third (34%) will follow Formula 1.
Fan Spending and Behavior
Two-thirds of sports-interested adults will head to the pub to watch an average of nearly seven different events, spending over three hours per visit. With nearly four drinks purchased per event, fans expect to spend £83.30 per visit. The main motivations for pub-going include watching with friends or family (51%), enjoying the atmosphere (49%), and making the event feel like an occasion (45%). Larger screens (30%) and more food and drink options (18%) also attract fans.
Alina Ustymenko, a spokesperson for VELO, said: “There’s nothing quite like watching sport with a crowd, whether it’s belting out a chant, celebrating a score with a high five or pretending you know the rules of F1. The research shows fans are really throwing themselves into a summer of sport, with pubs set to be packed with fans, songs, snacks and hopefully enough seats to go around. Getting there early to claim your seat is going to be key ahead of some of the biggest sporting events of the summer.”
Pub Preferences and Atmosphere
When choosing a pub, 50% of fans look for a good atmosphere, 48% prioritize a big screen and clear view, and 31% seek plenty of seating. On average, pub-goers arrive 31 minutes before kick-off to secure a spot. The excitement often leads to vocal participation: 37% have lost their voice from cheering or singing, 32% celebrate by jumping up and down, 27% sing or chant, 18% share high-fives, and 15% hug those nearby.
Ustymenko added: “What really stands out is just how much excitement there is for a proper summer of sport down the pub. Turning up early to bag a decent seat, knowing exactly what snacks they will be grabbing and getting ready to cheer on their teams, it's clear fans are treating these matches like a real occasion. Whether they’re shouting at the screen, joining in with chants or just soaking up the atmosphere, the pub remains a huge part of how people enjoy sport together.”
