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Pubs for the British are a way of life, and with over 60,000 pubs in the U.K. it is no wonder why pubs play such a vital role for the British. Originally, known as public houses, pubs have been integrated deep into the British tradition and into communities for centuries. Just as the red telephone booths, fish and chips and the trolleys, pubs have become well known icons of the United Kingdom.

PUBS MORE THAN BEER, WINES AND SPIRITS

More often than not overcrowded and smokey, pubs are areas where people gather for drinks. However, pubs are much more than just a place to sip on a Guiness beer and munch on a pickle. Pubs are a social way of life where friends gather, offer each other drinks and overall relax. However, some people may not be aware that most pubs are not strictly alcohol suppliers zones, rather they serve soft drinks, meals and offer a variety of games as well.

Common meals served at pubs consist of fish and chips, chicken and chips, burgers and fries, scampi and chips and the Ploughman's Lunch, consisting of cheddar cheese, bread, onions and pickles. Some pubs offer meals that can easily compete with famous restaurants but yet providing an informal setting.

Games often consist of darts, bat and trap, skittles, dominoes, cards, pool and classic biliards. Many pubs nowadays offer slot machines and videogames as well. Large screen tv's are also a big hit so important sportive events may be watched while sipping on a beer.

CHILDREN ARE WELCOME TOO!

When you enter a pub expect to see only young adults as customers at the bar stand, as alcohol is served only to those 18 years old or older. However, teens in their sixteens and seventeen's may order a glass of wine or a beer if purchased along with a meal and with an accompanying adult. Younger teens may only enter to order a meal. You can expect to see families along with childen as well before 9 PM enjoying a meal together.

NO MORE DARK TINTED WINDOWS

Pubs used to often have dark, smoked windows so the customers were obscured from the outside passerbyers. Nowadays, however more and more pubs have clear windows so the interior decor can be appreciated by outsiders. This more open view has modernized pubs and changed the opinion of them being dark, foggy places. However, many pubs still mantain the traditional "pub" appearance and remain much appreciated historical landmarks.

Whether you are visiting a traditional century old pub or a more modern one, pubs remain vital to the British community. Expect to see people gather, talk, share ideas, eat, drink, play and relax. There is no better place to go for singles that feel lonely in the night or for people searching for a friend. In the U.K when the lights go off a new life begins as the community gets ready for the routine public house nightlife.

Learn more about this author, Janet Farricelli.
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