London nightlife to fall by 57% by 2030
According to a study by Capital on Tap, London is the UK city where nightlife is suffering the most, averaging just 1.5 clubs and bars per 10,000 people.
This represented a 17.79% fall in the past three years.
Hull in the north of England also experienced a decline, with just five clubs and 37.4 pubs per 10,000 people – a 20.16% decline between 2022 and 2025.
Glasgow also suffered, falling by 15.91% to just 3.5 clubs and 23.2 pubs.
The cities that had the highest number of clubs and bars per 10,000 people were York (49), Bath (38) and Leeds (30).
The study claims Bath is the ‘best’ UK city for a night out, with 38 clubs per 10,000 people – 25 times the number of London – and 260 pubs. Bath’s on-trade venues had an average rating of 4.3 out of five.
The study also calculated which areas had the highest demand, analysing nightlife monthly search volumes versus the change in the number of clubs. Manchester, Edinburgh and London topped this list.
Using this data, Capital on Tap created a formula to forecast the state of pubs and clubs in each city by 2030. It predicts the areas worst affected by 2030 will be Leicester, which may see nightlife venues fall by 65.85%; Leeds (-65.14%) and Brighton (-64.06%).
It anticipates London’s nightlife venues will decline by 57.23% between 2025 and 2030.
Kamilla Fernandes-Pickett from Capital on Tap concluded: “Understanding what locals and visitors are seeking – whether it’s cosy pubs, vibrant clubs, or relaxed bars – will help tailor your business to meet their preferences.
“Stay ahead of the curve by keeping an eye on emerging social trends, such as pop-up events, alcohol-free nights, or lively dining experiences, to ensure your venue remains a popular choice.”
This month, National Insurance contributions and minimum wage increased, with one trade body calculating that UK hospitality businesses are facing an annual cost upturn of £3.4 billion (US$4.4bn).
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