{"id":1048764,"date":"2026-06-25T08:04:15","date_gmt":"2026-06-25T08:04:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/1048764\/"},"modified":"2026-06-25T08:04:15","modified_gmt":"2026-06-25T08:04:15","slug":"britain-split-on-kids-and-dogs-in-restaurants","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/1048764\/","title":{"rendered":"Britain split on kids and dogs in restaurants"},"content":{"rendered":"

New 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.<\/strong><\/p>\n

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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