Why is Torbay's nightlife changing?

Prior to lockdown, nightclubs and bars were full every Friday and Saturday. Groups of friends would go ‘out-out’ regularly or for special occasions such as birthdays, hen/stag dos, work nights out, and more.

But that’s now changed since lockdown.

I’ve been on a couple of nights out this summer to places that used to be packed to the brim in the past. They weren’t this time round. They still had enough people there for an atmosphere, but it felt strange to have more room to dance around and less time waiting at the bar to get a drink.

Firstly, the long periods of time locked in at home have made some people more introverted, or in general enjoy being at home more, either with their families or socially with friends. 

People are enjoying more movies, food, and game nights at home. Plus, you get to be the DJ and choose your favourite music all night. Themed food boards, TikTok trends, and fancy dress are just some of the activities that people get up to. 

Many are also opting for more daytime excursions as well, so they can then get home and relax or get to bed earlier. Rather than getting back in the early hours and losing most of the next day sleeping or hungover.

Secondly, it is much cheaper to socialise at home. Drinks out are much more expensive. Supermarket booze and food are just a fraction of the price. The cost of living is high, and lots of people are trying to save money where they can.

Thirdly, fewer people are drinking. More people are going teetotal or just drinking less. To save money, be healthier, or to kick the addiction.

But what does that mean for the nightlife? A change of approach. More bars and clubs are offering ‘experiences’.

You can go to these venues now for karaoke, bottomless brunches, bingo nights, gigs, shows, and more. There are even some offering daytime clubbing. The high street as a whole is changing.

It will be interesting to see what the future holds for bars and nightclubs. What do you think of the change? Is it a good or a bad thing?

Topics like this are discussed on some of the shows on Torbay Hospital Radio, where we welcome people's thoughts and ideas. 

We are also keen to hear what sort of music you like to hear; why not make a request for a patient or a member of the hospital staff? Or failing that, just make a request for yourself; that is good therapy also. You can find out more about the station and how to listen via the website torbayhospitalradio.com.