Five Friday Night Alternatives To The Pub…Where You Can Still Socialize

Friday night is here. For many, it’s the best day of the week. The laptops get shut down and it’s out to the pub for a few pints and a chat with friends. In the UK, it’s a rite of passage. It’s what you do. But it’s not exactly healthy is it?

Many people across the UK are starting to realize this, whether it be people realizing they have problems with the hard stuff and are checking into the many alcohol rehab UK centers up and down the country, or in the case of many Millennials and even more Gen Zers, they’re more aware of the effects of alcohol and are choosing healthier ways to hang out and unwind at the end of a long week at work.

Either way, there are plenty of options to have a great Friday night without even touching a lager, cocktail or glass of wine. So, if you’re after a Friday night without booze or Saturday morning without a hangover, here are five great alternatives to the pub to enjoy with friends…

Board Game Cafés

Board game cafés have become a popular alternative to the traditional pub. These cozy venues offer shelves full of classic and modern games, from strategy-heavy favorites like Catan to quick and light-hearted games like Dobble. You can grab a cup of tea, coffee, or even some snacks while you and your friends settle in for a competitive or cooperative evening of board gaming.

One of the best things about board game cafés is the relaxed, inclusive atmosphere. You can still chat and laugh with your mates, but in a setting that encourages face-to-face interaction and creativity rather than shouting over loud music. It’s an ideal choice if you’re after a chilled evening with plenty of fun.

Comedy Clubs

If you're in the mood for some laughter and entertainment, heading to a comedy club is an excellent way to spend your Friday night. Many cities and towns across the UK host live comedy nights at dedicated clubs or performance venues. These events are perfect for a night out that’s full of belly laughs, and you’ll be supporting local or up-and-coming comedians at the same time.

Most comedy clubs offer a range of drinks and snacks, but the focus is on enjoying the show rather than drinking. You can chat with your friends before and after the performance, making it a great social experience without the need for pub pints. Plus, who doesn’t love kicking off the weekend with a good laugh?

Escape Rooms

Escape rooms have exploded in popularity over the past few years, and it’s easy to see why. These immersive, puzzle-solving adventures require teamwork, communication, and a good sense of humor—all the ingredients for a memorable Friday night. Gather a group of friends, and work together to solve clues and escape from a locked room before the timer runs out. Each room typically has a unique theme, from solving a murder mystery to escaping a haunted house, so there’s something to suit everyone’s tastes.

Escape rooms are ideal for groups looking to bond and challenge themselves in a fun and energetic setting. Afterward, you can head to a café or dessert parlor to discuss the highs and lows of your escape, reliving the experience together.

Cinema Nights

While going to the cinema might seem like a standard option, there are plenty of ways to make your Friday night film experience stand out from the usual. For instance, try an independent cinema that screens classic films, documentaries, or foreign language movies. Some cinemas also offer themed nights, where they pair a film with special drinks, costumes, or quizzes related to the movie.

Alternatively, you could host your own movie night with friends at home. Popcorn, comfy sofas, and a selection of your favorite films or new releases can create the perfect laid-back evening. Whether you opt for a film marathon or just one feature, it's an enjoyable way to spend time together without the pub setting.

Cookery Classes

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to do something interactive, why not gather your friends for a cookery class? Cooking together is a brilliant way to bond, learn new skills, and of course, enjoy some delicious food. Whether it’s mastering pasta from scratch, learning the secrets of sushi, or creating your own artisan pizzas, cookery classes are a hands-on, fun way to spend your Friday evening.

Many cooking schools or community centers offer classes for small groups, so you can laugh, learn, and taste-test your creations together. And the best part? You get to enjoy the fruits of your labor at the end of the night, making it both a social and satisfying experience.