Award-winning country pub the Hare and Hounds Inn, Bowland Bridge, Lake District, has shared the top five trends for rural venues to ensure they “thrive” this year.
Topping the list was collaborations that “spark creativity”, including partnerships with admired chefs, local artisans or events hosts.
“Gone are the days of going it alone. The key to thriving in 2025 is collaboration. Country pubs are becoming creative hubs by partnering with admired chefs, local artisans, and event hosts.
“At The Hare & Hounds, this philosophy is already in action with events like our recent kitchen collaboration with Watson & Fryer and exciting evenings such as our Alpine inspired tipi for Christmas parties.
“These partnerships bring fresh ideas and attract diverse audiences, ensuring no two visits are ever the same”, the pub said.
As drinks menus “evolve”, new and innovative drinks would also be key for country pubs in 2025, the pub predicted, in particular around growing demand for no and low alcohol options.
Innovative solutions
The pub explained: “While real ale, lager, and wine remain staples, country pubs are responding to the growing demand for low and no-alcohol options.
“The Hare & Hounds has curated a selection of craft alcohol free alternatives, alcohol-free beers, and locally sourced soft drinks that ensure no guest feels left out, including the designated driver.”
Championing locally sourced ingredients and other initiatives that showcase “innovative” efforts to be more sustainable were also a “necessity”, the pub said.
“Forward-thinking country pubs are finding innovative ways to reduce costs and their environmental impact.
“From renewable energy to local sourcing and repurposing wine bottles into glasses, The Hare & Hounds champions this movement by incorporating locally sourced ingredients into our menus and exploring eco-friendly heating solutions.
“Sustainability benefits not only the environment but also the community and the bottom line”, according to the Hare and Hounds, which has previously been recognised in the Times and Sunday Times Top 100 Places to Stay.
Décor that embraces “comfort with personality” would also be important, the pub added.
Warm and inviting
It detailed: “The days of dark corners and sticky carpets are behind us as are the cookie cutter designs of big chains. In 2025, country pubs are embracing design that blends comfort with personality.
“Ever-evolving interiors, seasonal décor, and Instagram-worthy spaces are key to keeping customers intrigued and coming back for more.
“At The Hare & Hounds, our recent renovations and festive displays have already drawn visitors eager to experience a setting that’s as warm and inviting as our hospitality.”
In addition, the Hare and Hounds shared that the modern country pub is “more than a place to eat and drink”, adding they are “cornerstone of community life”.
The pub said: “In 2025, pubs will embrace their role as meeting hubs, offering spaces for everything from remote working and networking to hosting local groups and social events.
“At The Hare & Hounds, our cosy spaces and welcoming atmosphere make us the perfect venue for bringing people together, whether for a workday retreat or a storytelling evening by the fire.”
