Source: Adam Smith Institute
by Madsen Pirie
“Some in the anti-alcohol and anti-tobacco lobby have their sights set on the traditional British pub. But it plays an important social and cultural role. George Orwell had a strong appreciation for traditional British pubs, particularly the type that fostered a sense of community and provided a space for social interaction. He described his ideal pub, the ‘Moon Under Water,’ in a 1946 essay, emphasizing its lack of music, a welcoming atmosphere, and the importance of conversation and social connection over passive entertainment. The traditional British pub serves as a community hub and as a meeting point for locals, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging. … They are under threat, not just from the killjoy lobby, but from the increased costs of National Insurance and minimum wage increases. But they are part of the fabric of our nation and should be preserved.” (05/28/25)
https://www.adamsmith.org/blog/the-traditional-pub-does-more-than-serve-drinks