Myth busting your chain pub misconceptions
Some people hear the words 'chain pub' and their impression can sometimes be less than flattering. Perhaps they've had a poor experience in the past when visiting one, or maybe they've never been and have formed their opinions purely from something they've heard from a friend or seen on social media. Let us be the mythbusters of chain pubs misconceptions!
At Greene King, we think it would be a shame to tar every chain pub with the same brush – they are often run on somewhat similar principles, but not every chain pub is created equally! We may be just a little biased, but we know that if there's one thing we're great at, it's running some of the very best chain pubs in the country.
It's time to rethink British chain pubs
Our pubs are often the heart of the communities in which they sit, and community pubs are more than simply brick and mortar. They're a hub for all manner of celebrations, gatherings, get-togethers and casual family time. They're at the centre of it all, whether you're a regular or you've never visited before – simply step inside and experience everything that our warm hospitality provides. Now, with that said, let's get to mythbusting some of those chain pub misconceptions!
1. Chain pubs are taking business from independent pubs
You may have heard this said, but there are always two sides to any story, and we'd like to make the case for chain pubs. It has been sad to see so many well-loved independent pubs closing all over the country for the past few decades, but there are so many reasons for this.
Challenges for pubs in the United Kingdom
From changes in how alcohol is taxed, to changes in cost of living and more, there are many reasons why independent pubs may struggle to make things work in this day and age. Chain pubs' main benefit is that it is easier for them to keep their food and drink affordable for all their guests while staying true to what makes British pubs so great.
2. Chain pubs don't have tasty food on their menus
This is an extremely bold claim, and one that we'd like to correct! Our pub food draws on decades and even centuries of pub food tradition. We know that our guests love flavour and value in equal measure, so our carefully prepared menus are able to offer both in spades.
English favourites in our pub restaurants
From hearty pub classics, lovingly prepared with high quality ingredients, to seasonally-inspired dishes and modern takes on old favourites, there is something for everyone on our diverse, inclusive pub restaurant menus. And yes, that means we're proud to serve a mouth-watering range of vegan, vegetarian, and non-gluten containing dishes!
3. Chain pubs don't serve good beer
This simply isn't true, but don't just take our word for it – you can visit our famous brewery in Bury St. Edmunds and experience almost a thousand years of brewing tradition in action. Before we were a pub chain, we were a brewery, and that remains something dear to our hearts. Cheers to British brewers!
Making room for brewing excellence
Our selection of real ales, craft beers, cask ales and limited edition brews is one of the finest in the country, and we know that the offerings from our breweries have something for everyone. In fact, we are proud to say that many of our craft beers and real ales have won awards, and we're supporters of CAMRA!
4. Chain pubs lack character
Something that we're especially proud of here at Greene King is the sheer amount of historic pubs and venues we manage. From centuries-old pubs like the Windmill in Stratford-upon-Avon which dates back to 1599, to the stunning Tudor exterior of pubs like the Coach & Horses pub in Mayfair, or even the 12th-century medieval vaulted crypt inside the Watergates Bar in Chester, our pubs are not short on character.
Heart and soul of Britain's communities
Ultimately, pubs are about so much more than their looks. Excellent hospitality, a sense of community, a perfectly poured pint, and deliciously hearty food are all part of the equation when it comes to what makes chain pubs like ours great. Throw in excellent beer gardens, family-friendly facilities and amazing pub deals, and you're onto a winner!
Give Greene King pubs a try
We almost certainly have a choice of pub restaurants in your area, be it a town, city or the countryside. If you're interested in giving your local a try, then scope out your nearest Greene King pubs in your area. Go on, give your local a chance!