![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/iStock-1226766363-640x427.jpg\")
<\/p>\nNew research from Lightspeed has revealed stark regional differences in what British diners want from restaurants, with strong support for adults-only dining experiences but more divided views on allowing pets.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Southampton has emerged as the UK city most supportive of child-free dining experiences, while Liverpool has been named the nation\u2019s most pet-friendly dining destination, according to new research from Lightspeed.<\/p>\n
The survey of UK diners found widespread backing for adults-only dining options, with more than three quarters of respondents agreeing that some sit-down restaurants should offer child-free experiences. Notably, 74% of parents also supported the idea.<\/p>\n
Southampton topped the rankings, with 83% of diners supporting adults-only dining, followed by Bristol (83%), Manchester (82%) and Norwich (81%). Plymouth completed the top five on 80%.<\/p>\n
At the other end of the spectrum, Belfast was the least supportive city, with 63% backing the concept.<\/p>\n
The findings suggest that many consumers are seeking greater choice over the atmosphere they experience when dining out, particularly for date nights, special occasions and evening meals.<\/p>\n
Pets divide opinion<\/p>\n
While support for child-free dining was consistently high across the country, attitudes towards pets in restaurants proved far more polarising.<\/p>\n
Liverpool emerged as Britain\u2019s most dog-friendly dining city, with 63% of respondents supporting pets being allowed in restaurants, excluding service animals. Newcastle ranked second at 56%, making it one of only two cities surveyed where a majority of diners supported pet-friendly dining.<\/p>\n
London and Manchester both recorded 47% support, while Bristol followed closely on 46%.<\/p>\n
Once again, Belfast ranked at the bottom of the table, with just one in four diners supporting pets in restaurants.<\/p>\n
The research also highlighted contrasting attitudes in some cities. Southampton, which recorded the highest level of support for adults-only dining, was among the least enthusiastic about pets being allowed in restaurants, suggesting residents favour quieter and more traditional dining environments.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, Manchester and London appeared to strike a balance, combining strong support for child-free dining with a greater openness towards pet-friendly policies.<\/p>\n
No one-size-fits-all approach<\/p>\n
According to Lightspeed, the findings point to growing consumer demand for restaurants to be clear about the type of experience they offer, whether that is family-friendly dining, adults-only evenings or pet-friendly spaces.<\/p>\n
Commenting on the research, Liam Crooks, Managing Director of EMEA Hospitality, said: \u201cThe research shows that diners want restaurants to offer different environments for different occasions. Whether it\u2019s a quiet date night, a celebration with friends or a meal with the family dog, people expect hospitality venues to clearly define the experience they\u2019re offering.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe regional and city differences show there is no one-size-fits-all approach. What works in one city may not work in another, and so restaurants that understand their local audience are most likely to benefit.\u201d<\/p>\n
Top UK cities supporting child-free dining<\/p>\n
Southampton (83%)
\nBristol (83%)
\nManchester (82%)
\nNorwich (81%)
\nPlymouth (80%)<\/p>\n
Top cities supporting pets in restaurants<\/p>\n
Liverpool (63%)
\nNewcastle (56%)
\nLondon (47%)
\nManchester (47%)
\nBristol (46%)<\/p>\n
Related news<\/p>\n
\n \n
\n Muse by Tom Aikens launches summer wine nights
\n <\/a>\n <\/p>\n
\n Dorothy\u2019s brings all-day dining culture to Mayfair
\n <\/a>\n <\/p>\n