Dry January Survival Guide: Low & No Alcohol Drinks
Dry January is almost here, and for many, it’s a time to ditch the booze and go alcohol-free for a whole month.
The pub might be known for a perfectly poured pint or a crisp and satisfying cocktail, but at Greene King, we know a great drink can hit the spot without the hard stuff.
Plus, our inviting atmospheres and warm welcomes are the perfect antidote to the wintry January weather. So swing by, pull up a chair, and enjoy a satisfying alcohol-free sip at your local Greene King pub.
What is Dry January and why has it become so popular?
While Christmas is a season of indulgence, with many enjoying festive feasts and celebratory drinks throughout December, the new year offers a fresh start. It’s a time for resolutions that refresh the mind, body, and soul.
Dry January started as a public health campaign launched by the UK charity Alcohol Concern in 2013 and encouraged people to take a month off alcohol to boost their health and also reflect on their drinking habits.
In the 12 years since, it has become a global movement, and sober living is just part and parcel of many people's everyday lives.
The pub may have once been seen as a place for drinking, but at Greene King, we know choice matters. We want everyone who walks through our doors to feel welcome, no matter what they’re sipping.
Whether you enjoy a little alcohol or none at all, our bars are always stocked with your favourites. Plus, when it comes to low and no-alcohol options, we’ve got plenty on tap.
Why Greene King is your go-to for alcohol-free sips
The pub might not be your first thought during Dry January, but at Greene King, we offer way more bang for your buck than booze.Our bar is always brimming with choice, and that includes our low and alcohol-free options, as well as soft drinks, fruit juices, and hot and cold caffeinated beverages.
Then there’s the beauty of our pub food menus. Whether you’re after a light snack or something more hearty, you’ll find classic dishes full of comforting flavours. Think hearty pies, perfect plates of fish and chips, flavourful curries with all the trimmings, and Sunday roasts that deserve a round of applause. Not to mention our decadent choice of desserts for the ultimate sweet finish. Go on, treat yourself.
Many of our pubs are family-friendly, so it's a warm welcome for all ages, plus you can find a generous choice of dog-friendly spots to bring your furry friend.
Pop by for a quick visit, drop in for a leisurely afternoon or stay late for a lively evening. Alcohol-free, of course.
Our alcohol-free line raises the bar
At Greene King, we pride ourselves on a packed menu and a well-stocked bar. Whatever your tipple of choice, our staff are ready to pour. From frosty pints to crisp wines and expertly mixed cocktails, your drink is our priority. And the same goes for our low and alcohol-free options.
Fancy a pint? We've got a great line-up on draught and by bottle. From the smooth sips of a Guinness 0.0 to the fruity flavour of an alcohol-free Koppaberg, there's plenty to raise a glass to.
We've also got full-bodied alcohol-free wines and gins, and a delicious choice of mocktails to sample. It's full flavour without the next-day fog.
Let's not forget our range of soft drinks, as well as hot drinks. Enjoy a rich cup of freshly roasted coffee, a comforting mug of warming tea, or a velvety hot chocolate.
Tips for making this Dry January a big success
It can be hard to make a change, especially after a festive season of enjoyment. But there’s nothing like conquering a challenge and proving to yourself you can do it. Here are our top tips for making Dry January a joy.Switch up your routine
It can be easy to let alcohol become part of your everyday life, so it’s a good idea to treat January as a time for new rituals. If you typically wind down from a long day of work with a glass of wine, why not opt for a spot of meditation instead? There are plenty of YouTube videos to guide you through, and you can try to calm your mind and drown out the noise, without the need for alcohol.Enjoy alcohol-free rewards
It's a good idea to celebrate making it to the end of Dry January but be sure to celebrate the small successes along the way. Smashed your first week? That’s worth more than just a pat on the back. Treats don’t have to involve alcohol, so celebrate with a takeaway while relaxing at home, indulge in a pampering session, or share a meal out with the family. A Greene King pub is the perfect choice, offering plenty of alcohol-free options to help you stay on track.Stay social
It will feel like a very long month if you stay locked up indoors. No alcohol doesn’t have to mean no fun. You can still enjoy nights with your mates, especially at a Greene King pub. We’ve got plenty of options to sip on, so you can keep the celebrations going. It’s all the high with no headache. Talk about a win-win!Be kind to yourself
The aim is to go the entire month without alcohol, but if you slip up near the end, don’t let it overshadow your progress. Making it close to the end is still worth a celebration. And if you faltered early on but stayed on track afterwards, that’s still a win. There’s always next year to try again and see if you can improve.Find a Greene King pub for Dry January
Greene King has plenty of venues spread across the country, so you’re never far away from one of our pubs. Find your new local or discover somewhere special on your next adventure. If you’re challenging yourself to Dry January, head to us and enjoy alcohol-free sips that won’t compromise on flavour or fun. It’s easy to find your nearest Greene King. Simply enter your postcode into the handy pub finder tool, and we’ll show you the closest locations ready to welcome you.