Customers hit the road for pub food

The 'local' is no longer just around the corner as customers travel further for good pub food.

A new survey shows that the hunt for good pub food has seen a revival of the old fashioned weekend drive.

The research from Privilege Insurance shows that just three in ten people, 29 per cent, say their regular drinking spot is the pub round the corner, and just 15 per cent eat at their local pub.

Two thirds say good food is the reason for choosing a pub, compared with just three per cent who say location. Of those that go out for a pub meal regularly, 44 per cent will drive more than ten miles to guarantee good food at reasonable prices. And one in ten is willing to drive more than 20 miles.

Two thirds of those aged between 18 and 30 regularly go out for a pub meal, with more than a third happy to travel for more than 10 miles. However, this age group is also the most likely to ignore the drink driving laws, with five per cent admitting they accompany their meal with more than the legal limit of alcohol and still drive home.

James Gore, spokesman for Privilege Insurance. said: "With so many great pubs out there serving great food at reasonable prices, we are seeing the return of the weekend drive, as more and more people travel further afield to try out new places.

"We advise food-loving motorists that, if you do like a drink with your lunch, stick to a pub within walking distance, or be prepared to take a taxi home. Alternatively, you could ask a friend to drive you - as long as they are insured - or take turns being the designated driver."