Pubs and leisure

Study note

Going to a public house, usually shortened to pub, or to a bar is a popular social activity in the UK, and pub games such as pool and darts are common. There are rules about alcohol and age. You normally must be 18 or over to buy alcohol in a pub or bar. Younger people may sometimes be allowed in if accompanied by an adult, and from the age of 16 a person can drink wine or beer with a meal if they are with someone over 18.

Gambling is also age-restricted. You have to be 18 to go into a betting shop or gambling club. The National Lottery, with its weekly draws, also has a minimum age. The key figure to remember for this topic is that you must be 18 or over to buy alcohol in a pub.

Memory tip: Must be 18+ to buy alcohol in a pub; age limits also apply to gambling.