As the way we eat, drink and socialise continues to evolve, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most dynamic years yet for UK hospitality. With social culture at its core, the sector is increasingly driven by experiences.
New data insights from industry experts at hospitality discovery platform, DesignMyNight, reveal the most popular trends set to reshape how Brits will go out next year – from immersive social venues to nostalgia-driven dining.
DesignMyNight predicts three KEY 2026 hospitality trends
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 in 2026 and beyond.
- Rise of competitive socialising
In 2017, there were only 250,000 yearly searches for activities on DesignMyNight. However, this year, they have more than tripled. With almost one in three UK adults visiting a socialising venue in the past year*, this shows that going out has transformed into an experience-based opportunity.
Going out is no longer about just socialising, but taking advantage of experience-based venues. Socialising in a competitive yet fun way is set to boom even further, especially as 41% who go to venues offering darts and fairground games, for example, are returning at least once a month*. In 2026, existing and new concepts will continue to dominate the scene.
- Feast-style group dining
With searches for group-friendly restaurants being up by 28% in the past six months, it’s clear that restaurant guests are seeking large family-style portions in a multi-dish format to enjoy shared dining experiences.
Beyond enhancing the social aspect of eating out, feast-style menus offer diners a greater sense of ease by simplifying both ordering and bill-splitting, allowing everyone to enjoy the same dishes without the hassle of individual costs.
Diners are no longer wanting the limitations of trying one dish, so expect to see more sharing plates in 2026.
- Music-led venues
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, whilst being able to chat.
How can hospitality operators future-proof venues?
Katie Kirwan, Head of Brand & B2C at DesignMyNight, reveals her top tips for ensuring hospitality guests want to come back again:
- Make your venue a destination – Offering interactive elements or challenge-based experiences will attract groups looking for competitive socialising, a key trend for 2026.
- Cater to larger groups – Sharing menus that encourage communal dining are on the rise, so ensure that your restaurant menu has family-style options to encourage repeat visits.
- Incorporate sound – The days of the same playlist being played over and over are gone. Music should be more than just background ambience, but instead a central part of the venue. Investing in live music will allow guests to enjoy engaging in high-quality sound whilst socialising.
- Don’t be afraid to try something new – 2026 is the year to test new experiences, exclusive events and collaborations, whether it’s with a chef offering a brand-new tasting experience or a musician who will bring something new.
Kirwan concludes, “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.
Our internal data highlights three major trends set to define the hospitality sector in the next year: the rise of competitive socialising, the popularity of feast-style group dining and the growth of music-led venues.
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.”