Running a Pub in the Summer: Sunshine, Suds & Sizzling Success
Summer. The season of beer gardens, BBQs, and balmy evenings where the pub becomes everyone’s second home. If you run a pub or you’re dreaming of taking the leap, the summer months offer golden opportunities – literally and figuratively – to make your business shine. But it’s not just about hoping the sun shows up (this is England after all); it’s about knowing how to make summer work for you.
So, what’s different about running a pub in the summer? And how do you make the most of it? Pull up a pint and let’s get into it.
The Vibe: People Drink Differently in Summer
We Brits love a good moan about the weather – but come summer, we’re out out. Pubs with outdoor space? Absolutely thriving. People are chasing that continental café culture: lighter meals, easy-going drinks, long chats in the sun. So, think crisp cask ales, refreshing keg beers, lagers, and session IPA's. Stock up on crowd-pleasers and give them something new to talk about.
This is where Claire, our brilliant Beer Sommelier, and Jon, our Head Brewer, step in. Got a summer beer festival in mind? Planning to jazz up your seasonal range? They’re full of ideas and happy to lend their expertise – whether you want to spotlight local guest beers, launch your own summer special, or balance the perfect bar offering.
Summer = Beer Festival Season
Let’s be honest, there are few things better than a beer festival on a sunny day. The clink of glasses, the buzz of chatter, live music drifting across the courtyard – it’s magic. But behind the scenes? It takes planning. That’s where our Tech Services Team comes in.
Want a pop-up bar in your garden? Extra lines for a summer cider station? Help setting up your cellar so you can handle more volume? We've got your back. We’ve helped licensees pull off everything from laid-back local festivals to big charity fundraisers – we’ll get your kit set up properly and make sure the pints flow like a dream.
Don’t Forget the Power of a Good Charity Event
Summer's also prime time for community vibes, and what better way to bring people together than through a great cause? Family fun days, dog shows, raffles, BBQs, pub quizzes under the stars – you name it. You’d be surprised how many people turn up for a good time and to support their community.
And a bonus? Charity events bring in new faces. It’s a perfect way to show off your pub’s personality, grow your regulars, and create a buzz that lasts well beyond summer.
Tips & Tricks for Summer Success
Let’s cut to the chase. Here's what we've seen work, time and time again:
- Embrace the outdoors – Tidy up that beer garden, add a few fairy lights, maybe throw in some parasols or a gazebo. Instant upgrade.
- Freshen up your offer – Think seasonal specials: grilled dishes, summery salads, sharing platters. Light and lively!
- Keep drinks cool – Literally and metaphorically. Serve your beers in the right glasses, chill your ciders properly, and promote those easy-drinkers.
- Get your team involved – They’re your frontline. Get them talking up your events, sharing pics on socials, and getting people excited.
- Plan for the unexpected – Rain happens. Have a plan B. Pop-up gazebos, covered seating, or just a cracking indoor vibe make all the difference.
So Why Run a Pub in the Summer?
Because you get to be the heart of it all. From the laughter in the garden to the clink of glasses as the sun sets, summer is when people remember their visits to the pub. And if you do it right, you’re not just running a pub – you’re running a destination.
At Everards, we’re with you through it all – from beer ideas to beer lines, event support to seasonal planning. Whether it’s your first summer in the game or your fifteenth, we’ve got the tools, the team, and the passion to help you make it one to remember.
Thinking of running a pub with us? Or already part of the Everards family and planning your next summer bash? Get in touch – we’d love to chat beer, BBQs and big ideas.
Cheers to summer and all the pints to come 🍻