UK hospitality set for experiential, nostalgic, and late-night shake-up in 2026

The UK’s hospitality scene is poised for a dynamic transformation in 2026, according to Katie Kirwan, head of brand & B2C at DesignMyNight. Drawing on over a decade of industry insight and platform data, Kirwan outlines 11 key trends that will shape how Brits eat, drink, and socialise in the year ahead.

Competitive socialising continues its meteoric rise, with activity-based venues like Flight Club and Fairgame seeing repeat visits soar. DesignMyNight reports that searches for experiences have more than tripled since 2017, reflecting a shift from passive dining to immersive entertainment.

Maximalist interiors are also taking centre stage. Inspired by fashion’s “dopamine dressing,” venues are ditching minimalism for bold textures, vibrant colours, and theatrical design. Openings like Big Mamma’s Canary Wharf outpost and BAM Karaoke Box exemplify this sensory-first approach.

On the food front, fine-but-casual dining is redefining luxury. Consumers are seeking chef-led menus and elevated drinks in relaxed settings, with restaurants like Brat and Chishuru leading the charge. Meanwhile, feast-style dining is gaining traction, with group-friendly formats and upfront pricing driving a 28% spike in searches for celebratory meals.

Nostalgia is emerging as a powerful emotional driver. From ABBA-themed nights to 70s-inspired interiors, venues are tapping into retro aesthetics to offer comfort and familiarity. Booking.com’s 2026 travel report echoes this, predicting a rise in memory-driven experiences.

Late-night culture is also evolving. Restaurants like Oriole and Decimo are extending hours, with post-10pm reservations on the rise. Kirwan suggests this could mark London’s shift toward becoming a true 24/7 city.

Other notable trends include the fast-casual makeover of legacy chains like Prezzo, the rise of mini cocktails and desserts, and growing interest in Basque-style pinxtos dining. Listening bars, where music takes centre stage, are also gaining popularity as an alternative to traditional nightlife.

Finally, the future of the British pub remains a hot topic. Despite closures, DesignMyNight reports a 10% uptick in pub searches, with gastro venues like The Devonshire proving that demand for cosy, community-led spaces is far from fading.

With her finger firmly on the pulse, Kirwan’s forecast blends consumer data, cultural shifts, and a deep understanding of what makes going out in the UK so uniquely vibrant.