News

Britain split on kids and dogs in restaurants

25 June 2026 By Sophie Arundel

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.

Southampton has emerged as the UK city most supportive of child-free dining experiences, while Liverpool has been named the nation’s most pet-friendly dining destination, according to new research from Lightspeed.

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.

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%.

At the other end of the spectrum, Belfast was the least supportive city, with 63% backing the concept.

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.

Pets divide opinion

While support for child-free dining was consistently high across the country, attitudes towards pets in restaurants proved far more polarising.

Liverpool emerged as Britain’s 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.

Partner Content

Champagne-baiting English wine brand invites public investment

Winding through Austria’s diverse Niederösterreich vineyards

AIX Rosé sets summer mood with Playlister

Historic Polish vodka distillery heads to auction with £53m redevelopment potential

London and Manchester both recorded 47% support, while Bristol followed closely on 46%.

Once again, Belfast ranked at the bottom of the table, with just one in four diners supporting pets in restaurants.

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.

Meanwhile, Manchester and London appeared to strike a balance, combining strong support for child-free dining with a greater openness towards pet-friendly policies.

No one-size-fits-all approach

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.

Commenting on the research, Liam Crooks, Managing Director of EMEA Hospitality, said: “The research shows that diners want restaurants to offer different environments for different occasions. Whether it’s 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’re offering.

“The 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.”