The importance of pubs, take two

It’s October and you might expect me to highlight Oktoberfest and Festbier, Märzen and other delicious German lagers. Or perhaps you think I’m going to praise pumpkin beer (the only beer I truly can’t stand). Nope, I’m not going to do that. Instead, this is my take two on raising awareness of pubs as social hubs.

In February 2020, I wrote about pubs and how they can help tackle loneliness and social isolation. Oh, the irony of publishing such a piece just before the pandemic hit and the whole world closed down. Ah well, I was not wrong and I think most people, when forced into lockdown, realised that local pubs are fantastic places for companionship, friendship and support. A place where everyone knows your name, etcetera.

Pubs are intended as social institutions and some organise quiz nights and live music, some host beer tastings and foodie events for the local community, and there are even beer running clubs for those who want to enjoy some physical activity before heading to their favourite watering hole for a refreshing pint.

Photo: Matthieu Comoy via Unsplash

But what I love about pubs is much more than the social activities. You can also come on your own, sit down at a table with a book, a newspaper or a laptop. Nobody will bat an eye if you order a coffee, a beer or another beverage of your choice.

If you want, you can enjoy some quiet, solitary time, watch people pass by or sneakily listen in on conversations. Or if you feel chatty, you can just drop a question to the people at the next table. A favourite conversation opener of mine is simply asking what they’re drinking and if it’s any good, and then you’re off – without it implying anything more than a bit of casual, social interaction over a beer.