Leeds named among UK cities with the friendliest pub landlords - top 10 locations revealed
We’ve always known that a trip to a Leeds local comes with a warm Yorkshire welcome, but now there is data to prove it.
New research has revealed that Leeds is officially home to some of the friendliest pub landlords in the UK.
In a study commissioned by Star Pubs, our city was ranked in the top four nationwide for welcoming bar staff, with 22% of people crowning Leeds as a hub for hospitality, well above the national average of just 15%.
While Glasgow took the top spot (30%), Leeds comfortably beat out northern rivals Manchester (20%), Newcastle (21%), and Sheffield (18%) in the niceness stakes.
The survey didn't just look at who was pulling the pints; it delved into what makes the perfect British local. It turns out, we are a simple bunch at heart.
64% of us reckon clean toilets are the most important factor than a fancy gastro-menu, followed closely by a good beer garden (51%) for those rare days of Yorkshire sunshine.
The top ‘dream pub’ features people asked for included plenty of cosy seating (48%), a wide range of quality beers (32%), weekend music and a pub quiz (31% and 24% respectively), while almost a quarter of those who were asked want sport on the TV (20%) and a classic pub jukebox (18%.)
When it comes to snacks, the Ploughman’s Lunch and salted nuts tied for the top spot (17%). Interestingly, while the traditional Sunday Roast remains the king of pub meals (46%), the humble pickled egg is falling out of fashion, with only 4% of Brits calling it a "vital" snack.
To celebrate the findings, Star Pubs has launched the 'Dream Pub Studio', an interactive digital game that lets users build their own Sims-style local—choosing everything from the décor and the beer list to the specific friendliness level of the staff.
Hance McPherson, Head of Licensee Attraction at Star Pubs, said: "Pubs have always held a special place in British life... from open fires and great Sunday roasts to friendly landlords, it’s clear people value certain elements over others."
The top ten UK locations with the friendliest landlords
- Glasgow (30%)
- Cardiff (25%)
- Cambridge (24%)
- Leeds (22%)
- Newcastle (21%)
- Norwich (21%)
- Manchester (20%)
- Sheffield (18%)
- Nottingham (17%)
- Plymouth (17%)
Do you agree with the findings, and what pub in the city has the friendliest landlords in your estimation? Let us know by leaving a comment on our Facebook page or by contacting the writer of this article.