The Perfect Pub: Are George Orwell's Thoughts Still Valid?

The notion of the "perfect pub" is a topic that has sparked debate for generations. When I formed Bear Inns, five years ago, I wanted to create pubs that were ‘perfect’ for their specific communities, and for me it’s all about the people. This idea was famously explored by George Orwell in his 1946 essay, "The Moon Under Water." In it, Orwell laid out his vision of the ideal public house, a vision that has since become a touchstone for pub enthusiasts. But in a world where pubs are evolving to meet changing tastes and lifestyles, do Orwell's thoughts on the perfect pub still hold up?

Orwell's Vision of the Ideal Pub

Orwell's "The Moon Under Water" described a pub that existed only in his imagination—a place that combined all the best features of the various pubs he had known. He outlined ten key characteristics that made this fictional pub perfect:

Unobtrusive Atmosphere: The pub should not be too large or too small. It should have a quiet and relaxed atmosphere where patrons can hold conversations without having to shout over loud music.
Traditional Ambiance: Orwell favoured a pub with a genuine, unpretentious character—no gimmicks or modern trends. The ideal pub would have a timeless quality, with Victorian architecture, wooden interiors, and perhaps a coal fire.

Cheap and Simple Drinks: The pub should serve a variety of affordable ales, with a particular emphasis on draught beer. Orwell also mentioned that a good pub should offer the possibility of drinking in pints.

Good Food: The food should be simple and unpretentious, like a hearty lunch or a well-made sandwich. Orwell was particularly fond of the idea of a pub offering cheese, a common snack in his day.

Absence of Modern Distractions: Orwell believed that the perfect pub should not have a radio, piano, or loudspeakers—things that could detract from conversation and create noise.

A Garden: A pub should ideally have a garden, allowing patrons to enjoy a drink in the fresh air during warmer months.

Attentive Service: The staff should be friendly and efficient, serving drinks promptly without unnecessary fuss.

No Strong Drinks: Orwell believed that the perfect pub would not serve cocktails or strong spirits, focusing instead on beer and wine.

Community-Oriented: The pub should cater to a regular clientele, fostering a sense of community. It would be a place where everyone knows each other, and newcomers are warmly welcomed.

Dogs Welcome: Orwell thought that a good pub should allow dogs, adding to its homely, relaxed atmosphere.


The Modern Pub Experience

Fast forward to today, and the landscape of pubs has changed significantly. Modern pubs are more diverse, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Craft beer pubs, gastropubs, and themed bars are common, reflecting a shift in consumer expectations. Yet, despite these changes, many of Orwell's principles still resonate and they are the foundation of my pubs.

I am a strong believer in Orwell’s vision for the perfect pub and have tried to introduce that myself into our two pubs. I strive for our customers to come for a drink and stay for the people.

For instance, the desire for an unobtrusive atmosphere remains a key factor for many pub-goers. While some enjoy the buzz of a lively pub, others seek out quieter spots where they can talk with friends. The rise of micropubs—small, often single-room establishments focusing on conversation and quality beer—shows that Orwell's preference for a quieter, more intimate setting is still valid. These days we ensure that our pubs have some quiet spots or booths where people can chat or watch the world go by.

Orwell's appreciation for traditional ambiance also endures. Many pubs emphasise their historical roots, offering a slice of the past to patrons who appreciate the charm of older architecture and decor. The appeal of a pub with wooden beams, low ceilings, and a roaring fire is timeless, offering a sense of continuity in a fast-paced world.

However, some of Orwell's ideas seem out of step with contemporary expectations. The absence of modern distractions like music or television might not appeal to everyone, especially in an age where pubs often double as entertainment venues. Today, many pubs use music, sports broadcasts, and other forms of entertainment to draw in crowds and create a lively atmosphere.

The idea of offering simple, unpretentious food has also evolved. While Orwell valued the straightforwardness of a cheese sandwich, modern patrons often seek more diverse and sophisticated menu options. At Bear Inns, we’re proud to offer a variety of freshly cooked and tasty dishes from pub classics to our regularly changing seasonal specialities, all using the most local ingredients available to us.

Orwell's aversion to strong drinks and cocktails might also seem outdated in a time when mixology is an art form. Many pubs now offer a wide range of spirits and craft cocktails, catering to the evolving tastes of their customers.

A Timeless Vision with Room for Growth

So, are George Orwell's thoughts on the perfect pub still valid? The answer is both yes and no. His vision of a pub as a welcoming, community-oriented space with a traditional ambiance and affordable drinks remains deeply appealing and is the foundation of our offering. However, the modern pub has evolved, embracing new trends and tastes that Orwell might not have anticipated.

Ultimately, the perfect pub is a subjective concept, shaped by individual preferences and cultural shifts. While Orwell's ideal may no longer align perfectly with today's diverse pub landscape, his principles continue to influence our understanding of what makes a pub special. The essence of the perfect pub—community, comfort, and character—remains as relevant as ever.

Woody (Edward) Barlow

Woody (Edward) Barlow, founder of Bear inns, has worked in the hospitality industry for over 30 years, opening and establishing a number of award-winning venues. Woody is a member of the voting academy for Top 50 Gastro Pubs and is passionate about creating amazing pubs that have a joyful, lively atmosphere created by people, not only its guests but those delivering genuinely great hospitality.
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