Drinking culture is huge in Britain, so much so that there’s not much that goes on here that doesn’t include alcohol.
While abstaining from drinking (or at least greatly reducing the amount of it they do) is becoming more popular as people realise just how harmful booze can be, the overwhelming majority still rely on lager, wine, and cocktails to get them through any number of situations. Here are things you’re unlikely to see people do without a drink in hand. Are any of these true for you?
1. Socialise at parties
Source: Unsplash For a lot of Brits, a drink is the go-to social lubricant at parties. It helps take the edge off nerves and makes small talk less awkward. Holding a glass gives you something to do with your hands, making you feel more at ease. Without that familiar prop, some might feel a bit lost or out of place when mingling with other people.
2. Watch football matches
Whether you’re down the pub or watching from your sofa, many fans feel that football and a pint go hand in hand. The excitement, the tension, the camaraderie—it all seems to call for a drink or two. Some might even feel it’s part of the ritual of supporting their team, and without it, the experience just isn’t the same.
3. Enjoy a pub quiz
The British pub quiz is a classic, and for many, it’s closely tied to having a drink. Sipping a pint while racking your brain for trivia answers is part of the fun. Without their usual tipple, some might find it harder to get into the quiz spirit or feel as relaxed.
4. Dance at clubs
Plenty of us rely on a bit of “Dutch courage” to hit the dance floor. Alcohol can lower inhibitions and make us feel more confident about our moves. Without a drink, some might feel too self-conscious to really let loose and enjoy the music.
5. Get through awkward family gatherings
Family get-togethers can be tense or a bit uncomfortable, and many people find that a glass of wine or a beer helps smooth things over. It can make conversations flow easier and ease any awkwardness. Without that social buffer, navigating these gatherings might feel more challenging.
6. Enjoy a summer barbecue
For many Brits, a cold drink is a must at a summer barbecue. Whether it’s beer, cider, or Pimm’s, sipping something refreshing while grilling and chilling is part of the experience. Some might feel the BBQ isn’t quite complete without a drink to complement the food and sunshine.
7. Celebrate special occasions
From birthdays to weddings, lots of us feel that special occasions call for a toast. Raising a glass to mark important moments is deeply ingrained in British culture. Without the customary drink, some might find it harder to get into the festive spirit or feel like something’s missing.
8. Bond with work colleagues
After-work drinks are a common way for colleagues to socialise and bond outside the office. Sharing a pint can help break down professional barriers and make interactions more relaxed. Without this ritual, some might struggle to connect with their coworkers on a personal level.
9. Enjoy live music gigs
Source: Unsplash For many, having a drink is part of the live music experience. Whether it’s a beer at a rock concert or a glass of wine at a jazz club, the drink adds to the atmosphere. Without it, some might find it harder to get into the groove or fully enjoy the performance.
10. Relax after a long day
Source: Unsplash A lot of people use a drink to unwind after work. Pouring a glass of wine or cracking open a beer signals that it’s time to relax and let go of the day’s stresses. Without that familiar routine, some might find it tough to switch off and de-stress.
11. Enjoy a meal out
Source: Unsplash Dining out often goes hand in hand with having a drink. Whether it’s wine with dinner or a cocktail beforehand, it’s part of the overall experience for many. Without their usual beverage, some might feel the meal is missing something or isn’t as enjoyable.
12. Chat up potential romantic interests
Many rely on a bit of liquid courage when it comes to flirting or approaching someone they’re interested in. A drink can boost confidence and make those interactions less daunting. Without it, some might find making the first move more challenging or feel more anxious.
13. Enjoy holidays abroad
For lots of Brits, having a drink is part of getting into holiday mode. Whether it’s a beer by the pool or cocktails at sunset, alcohol often features heavily in holiday activities. Without their usual holiday drinks, some might find it harder to fully relax and embrace the vibe.
14. Watch a cricket match (or any sporting event in general)
Cricket matches can last all day, and many fans feel that sipping drinks throughout is part of the experience. A cold beer or a glass of Pimm’s seems as essential as the action on the field. Without a drink, some might find the slower pace of the game harder to enjoy or feel like something’s missing.
