3 trends that will define how Brits go out in 2026
From immersive social venues to nostalgia-driven dining, hospitality discovery platform DesignMyNight has revealed three key trends that will shape how Brits go out in 2026.
Looking at searches across a range of hospitality-related experiences on DesignMyNight’s website, the data uncovers three major trends that highlight growing consumer shifts set to dominate next year.
1. Rise of competitive socialising
In 2017, there were only 250,000 yearly searches for activities on DesignMyNight, but they have more than tripled this year, with almost one in three UK adults visiting a socialising venue in the past year.
This indicates that going out is no longer about just socialising, but about exploring experience-based venues. Socialising in a competitive way is set to boom even further. For example, 41% who go to venues offering darts and fairground games are returning at least once a month. In 2026, DesignMyNight predicts that existing and new concepts will continue to dominate the scene.
2. Feast-style group dining
Restaurant guests are seeking large family-style portions in a multi-dish format to enjoy shared dining experiences, with searches for group-friendly restaurants rising by 28% in the past six months.
Feast-style menus make the ordering and bill-splitting process easier, meaning everyone can enjoy the same dishes without worrying about individual costs. Diners are no longer wanting the limitations of trying one dish, and DesignMyNight expects to see more sharing plates in 2026.
3. Music-led venues
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Interest in people looking for live music in bars, restaurants and pubs has increased by 15% on DesignMyNight’s website, highlighting that music-led occasions will continue to define people’s going out experiences.
Next year, more venues where music is the star, not the background, are set to continue to expand even further. Listening bars aren’t a new concept; however, their presence will continue to grow across the UK as people seek music offline, while still being able to chat.
How should hospitality operators adapt?
Katie Kirwan, head of brand & B2C at DesignMyNight, said: “With searches for a range of going-out-related experiences surging in interest by visitors on our website, it’s clear that hospitality is set to evolve faster than ever in 2026.
“Experiences are increasingly at the heart of going out, with consumers seeking a greater sense of community from hospitality venues; therefore, venues that embrace these customer preferences will stand out, foster loyalty, and capture lasting attention.”
Kirwan reveals her top tips for ensuring hospitality guests want to come back again. She advised venues to make themselves a destination by offering interactive elements or challenge-based experiences, which will attract groups seeking competitive socialising.
‘Try something new’
She also highlighted the importance of catering to larger groups, explaining that sharing menus encouraging communal dining are on the rise, so restaurants should ensure their menus include family-style options to encourage repeat visits.
Music, she said, should no longer be treated as simple background ambience. The days of playing the same playlist repeatedly are gone; instead, sound should form a central part of the venue’s atmosphere. Investing in live music can create a more engaging and high-quality experience for guests while they socialise.
Finally, Kirwan encouraged operators not to be afraid to try something new. She suggested that 2026 will be the year to test fresh experiences, exclusive events and collaborations – whether that involves partnering with a chef to offer a new tasting menu or working with a musician to introduce something distinctive to the venue.
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