Your local pub should be a place of fun, good vibes, and community spirit.
That being said, a few bad habits can ruin the atmosphere faster than a warm pint. If you want to keep your spot at the bar, avoid these 14 pub behaviours that make people secretly (or not-so-secretly) want to kick you out for good.
1. Hogging the bar
Planting yourself at the bar and refusing to budge is a guaranteed way to irritate the staff and your fellow patrons. Other people need to order too, and elbowing your way into prime position for the whole night makes you look selfish. Grab your drink, have a chat, and let everyone else get their turn.
2. Snapping or waving to get the bartender’s attention
Snapping your fingers or waving your hand like you’re summoning a butler is just plain rude. The bartender sees you — they’re busy, not blind. Patience is key. Eye contact and a friendly smile go a lot further than acting like you own the place.
3. Talking way too loudly
A bit of cheer is expected, but if your voice carries across the entire pub and drowns out everyone else’s conversation, you’re officially *that* person. Keep the volume reasonable so other people can chat without shouting. Nobody wants a pub filled with your voice and nothing else.
4. Refusing to buy a round
When it’s your turn to get the drinks in, don’t suddenly develop a case of selective amnesia. If everyone else is pitching in, be a good sport and take your turn. Nothing makes people want to quietly ban you more than being the person who drinks but never pays.
5. Playing the same song repeatedly on the jukebox
We get it — you love that one song. But playing it on repeat isn’t giving the rest of the pub the same warm feelings. Mix it up and let other people have a chance. A good jukebox session is like a potluck; everyone brings a little something to the vibe.
6. Letting your kids run wild
If it’s a family-friendly pub, great! But letting your kids turn the place into a playground while you relax at the bar is a recipe for eye-rolls and glares. Keep an eye on them, so everyone can enjoy their pint in peace. It’s a pub, not a soft play area.
7. Starting arguments over trivia or sports
A little friendly debate is fine, but if a pub quiz or football match turns you into a ranting know-it-all, it’s time to dial it down. Nobody wants a night ruined by someone shouting about a disputed fact or a dodgy ref decision. Take the loss (or the win) gracefully.
8. Leaving your empty glasses everywhere
Finishing your drink and abandoning the glass wherever you please isn’t just lazy — it makes life harder for staff and other drinkers. Take it back to the bar or pop it on the collection tray. It’s a tiny effort that shows respect for the place and the people keeping it tidy.
9. Trying to “help” the bartender pour drinks
Leaning over the bar and offering tips on how to pour a pint or make a cocktail is not the helpful gesture you think it is. Bartenders know what they’re doing. Step back, let them work, and enjoy your drink when it’s ready. Your expertise isn’t needed here.
10. Blocking the dartboard or pool table
If you’re not playing, don’t hover around like you own the area. Blocking the way, chatting in the middle of someone’s shot, or walking through a game is just bad manners. Respect the space, and let players concentrate. There are plenty of other spots to hang out.
11. Hogging the best seat for hours
Nabbing the comfiest spot and refusing to budge all night makes you look like you’re setting up camp. If the pub’s busy, be considerate. Share the prime seating or give someone else a turn. You’re not paying rent — let the pub stay a welcoming space for everyone.
12. Being the last one to leave — every time
We all love a good night out, but if you’re always the last one clinging to your pint while the staff are stacking chairs, take the hint. Give the hardworking team a break and wrap it up when it’s time. Nobody likes being the reason someone’s working late.
13. Bringing your own drinks or snacks
Unless the pub specifically allows it, showing up with your own drinks or food is a big no-no. The pub is a business, not a picnic spot. Support the place you’re enjoying by ordering from the menu. That sneaky can of lager or bag of crisps won’t win you any friends.
14. Getting way too drunk and rowdy
Everyone loves a good laugh, but if your night ends with you shouting, stumbling, or causing chaos, you’re not being the life of the party — you’re being a headache. Know your limits, and respect the vibe of the place. Keeping things fun and friendly is what makes you welcome back.
