The New Ways To Socialise… Without Alcohol

Bored of bottomless brunches, late nights in loud bars, not actually having any meaningful conversations and wasting days due to hangovers? You’re not the only one. With more and more craving connection in a way that actually makes us refreshed as opposed to regretful, we’ve seen a big rise in social spaces and events that offer an alcohol-free solution to a good time.

From run clubs and group park walks with coffees, to art classes, pottery workshops and even communal saunas, the shift towards wellness-focused socialising is undeniable. Here we take a closer look at why socialising is taking on a whole new meaning, the benefits of alcohol-free meet-ups that instead nurture both your mind AND body, and the best places to experience it.

What's causing the shift?

“Gen Z are leading this change with studies that show two in three plan to drink less in 2025,” says Marius Hurley-Bennett, co-founder of Social Wellness Club. A survey by The Portman Group (in partnership with YouGov) also found that 39% of 18 to 24-year-olds don’t drink alcohol at all. “With fewer people relying on alcohol to socialise, the demand for more wholesome and fulfilling community experiences is rapidly growing,” adds Marius.

It’s not just about sobriety… it’s also being driven by a mix of cultural, financial and lifestyle factors too. "Post-Covid, many have reassessed their habits and relationships and are looking for new ways to socialise that align better with their values. The rise of Hyrox and wellness communities has also helped make wellness more mainstream, accessible and even trendy,” says Marius.

We are more health-conscious than ever before, and for many, alcohol simply doesn’t fit into their lifestyle. The conversation around longevity, mental resilience and preventative health has also gained momentum. Because of this, "there’s been a fundamental shift in how people want to socialise," says Chris Miller, founder of ARC - London's first communal contrast therapy space. "The old model of socialising in bars and clubs is giving way to experiences that leave people feeling better, not worse. It’s a desire to connect with others without borrowing happiness from tomorrow. People are realising they want to invest in themselves, meet like-minded people and do things that fuel their energy rather than drain it.”

The rising cost of living is another key driver. "The price of ‘traditional’ nights out has skyrocketed and many just don’t see the value in it anymore," says Chris. "When you can have an incredible experience (like a group workout followed by a sauna and an alcohol-free cocktail) for a fraction of the price of a night out, it’s an easy choice."

In an era where digital interactions dominate, there’s a growing need for in-person, meaningful connections that don’t revolve around alcohol. "We are more plugged in than ever, but screen time doesn’t equate to real connection," explains Chris. There is a very real loneliness epidemic. According to the Office for National Statistics, loneliness is affecting nearly a third of all adults - especially between the ages of 16 and 34 or those living alone. “There are even studies comparing the impact of loneliness to smoking 10+ cigarettes a day stating it’s even more harmful than alcoholism and obesity,” says Marius.

Being actively more present is also reshaping how we engage in social settings. Without the distraction of alcohol, we are more likely to engage in deeper conversations. "There’s something incredibly powerful about being fully present with others," Chris explains. "When you remove alcohol from the equation, you create space for genuine conversation, greater friendships and a real sense of community,” he adds. This all contributes to an increased sense of overall wellbeing.

You’ll likely notice there’s also been a big surge in non-alcoholic drinks with mocktails, alcohol-free spirits and other no or low-alcohol options cropping up on most menus. The Portman Group survey also reported that Gen Z are the biggest drinkers of low and no alcohol alternatives, with nearly half (44%) considering themselves either an occasional or regular drinker of alcohol alternatives, compared to 31% in 2022.

What are the benefits?

Whilst the lack of a hangover is a pretty big bonus, there are so many others… “These events offer everything a great night out does; fun, energy and connection,” says Marius. “They’re also highly accessible, typically low cost and always very welcoming - so much so, you can go alone. They also genuinely improve how you feel - both mentally and physically. Movement, learning and socialising all trigger feel-good chemicals in our brain (like dopamine and serotonin) which leaves you feeling energised, as opposed to drained,” he adds.

The benefits also extend to things like better sleep. Alcohol can play havoc with our sleep, whereas connecting with others, being outside or engaging in some kind of movement, all do the opposite and actually improve our chances or getting quality rest.

We touched upon loneliness earlier, and this rise of social wellness communities is one of the most powerful solutions to this too. “People are actively seeking offline, in-person experiences that feel more meaningful,” says Chris. "We’ve seen friendships form, business partnerships start and even relationships grow from people meeting in these environments. It’s a different type of bonding - one that’s based on shared experiences rather than alcohol-induced interactions."

Speaking of the specific benefits at ARC, Chris explains the experience (which uses contrast therapy between hot and cold temperatures) delivers a natural high and boosts recovery too. “Ice baths can boost dopamine by a whopping 250%, creating a lasting mood lift without alcohol. They really help to give a sense of belonging whilst building friendships too. Our space was designed to give people a place to reset, recharge and socialise that enhances your lifestyle instead of depleting it,” he adds. “You’ll also notice other benefits like reduced inflammation and accelerated muscle recovery too. “Sauna therapy increases endorphins and serotonin which can also help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality too.”

The best social wellness spaces and events that are well worth a visit

Ready to reap the rewards and be a part of the movement? We’ve rounded up some of the best spots.

Redefining how we connect, learn and grow (both online and in person) Social Wellness Club is more than just an events platform, it’s a movement that blends expert-led education with real-world application, through engaging challenges, accountability groups and interactive competitions.

Beyond its thriving digital community, they also host a variety of in-person experiences… from retreats and wellness festivals, to walk and talks and coffee clubs. Their latest initiative, Social Wellness Sundays at The Ministry, welcomes a run club, movement class and brunch. Whether you're looking to expand your knowledge, meet like-minded individuals, or simply prioritise your wellbeing, Social Wellness Club offers a welcoming space to do it all.

If you're looking for a social wellness space that offers both connection and rejuvenation, ARC is a must-visit. As the UK’s first communal contrast therapy club (with a 65-person capacity sauna), it’s more than just saunas and ice baths… it’s a full sensory experience.

Choose between guided sessions led by expert facilitators (incorporating breathwork, movement and mindfulness) or opt for a free-flow session, where you move between the sauna and ice bath at your own pace. By night, ARC After Dark transforms the space with music and DJs creating an electrifying, alcohol-free social alternative that blends recovery with celebration.

Run clubs are booming right now and Runna are certainly leading the charge. Famed for their tailored training plans, they also host community-driven events to boost motivation and allow you to meet other like-minded runners.

From social runs to larger community meet-ups, Runna have created a space where fitness and friendship go hand in hand. Proving that running isn’t just about endurance but also about celebrating and connecting with others, check out their worldwide diary of events.

If running isn’t your thing and you’re looking for something a little calmer and more creative, this is the perfect alternative. Promising a hands-on experience that allows you to unwind, express yourself and connect with others, you’ll also learn to craft something unique. From pottery painting to clay-making, Social Pottery provides a mindful and immersive way to spend time with friends or meet other creatives. Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned artist, these sessions are fun, restorative and engaging and it’s no surprise they’re fast becoming a go-to hot spot.

Still after a little more inspo? Looking for an event closer to you? Meetup makes it easier than ever to find something that sparks your interest. From hiking and reading, to art workshops, yoga sessions, wellness talks and plenty more, they have events happening every day. The perfect platform for connecting you to local events and groups that are tailored to your passions, simply search your location, explore what’s on and step into a new way of connecting.

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