Seven in 10 Brits find a walk more appealing if there is a good pub at the end of it, research has revealed. A poll of more than 2,000 adults found 53% would be willing to walk up to an extra hour if it meant having a cold pint at the end. Nearly 4% would even walk an extra 10 kilometres for a refreshing drink, with the ultimate post-walk drinks being beer, cider, and wine.
Research Commissioned by Thatchers
The research was commissioned by Thatchers, which has recently launched its 'Pint Sized Walks' – a collection of top scenic pub walks in the UK, in partnership with OS Maps by Ordnance Survey (OS). Martin Thatcher, fourth generation cider maker at the drinks company, said: “There’s something wonderfully simple about finishing a good walk in a pub. The research shows that a great pub at the end literally encourages us Brits to go that extra mile. It’s also fantastic to see so many people enjoying cider as their refreshing post-walk drink of choice.”
Key Factors for a Good Walk
When it comes to a good walk, the most important things for people are scenic views (55%), countryside locations (40%), and a good place to eat and drink afterwards (36%). The poll also revealed that 3-5km was the sweet spot for a leisurely ramble. Spending time with family and friends (43%), sunshine (40%), and BBQs (38%) were voted as the best elements of a perfect summer day in the UK, while 36% have chosen to go on a specific walking route just because it has a cracking pub on it.
Walking for Health vs. Leisure
Comparatively, only 19% have ever gone on an intense walk to improve their cardio. Taking in the fresh air (70%), getting in some exercise (55%), and having a moment to relax (49%) were seen as the best parts of a hike. The survey highlights that for many, the social and scenic aspects of walking outweigh the fitness benefits.
Pint Sized Walks Collaboration
Ordnance Survey and Thatcher's 'Pint Sized Walks' feature circular scenic walking routes hosted within the OS Maps app across the UK, each ending at a pub. Managing Director for leisure at OS, Nick Giles, said: “We know millions of people across Britain use OS Maps to discover new places to walk, explore and spend time outdoors and pubs are often an important part of that experience. Our data shows a growing demand for shorter, more achievable walking routes that fit around everyday life, particularly routes that offer somewhere welcoming to stop, relax and socialise afterwards. That’s why Pint Sized Walks works so well. It’s about making the outdoors feel accessible, enjoyable and connected to the places and communities people love spending time in.”
