The humble pub snack—a cornerstone of British culture—holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many. While personal preferences may vary, with some swearing by the irresistible scampi fry and others by the classic salt and vinegar crisps or pork scratchings, these snacks have been a steadfast companion to pints of beer for well over a century. Even in 2025, as the world around us evolves, the pub snack remains a beloved tradition, offering punters an ever-growing array of salty treats to munch on while enjoying a drink. For landlords, these snacks are a smart way to bump up profits or attract a broader clientele in a competitive market. In this article, we’ll take a journey through the history of pub snacks, explore how they’ve changed over the years, and uncover what the nation’s go-to snack is in 2025.
The history of pub snacks is as rich as the flavors they offer. The concept of pairing snacks with drinks dates back to Victorian times, when oysters were a popular accompaniment to stout. However, the core idea has remained unchanged—pubs want their patrons to enjoy salty snacks that keep them coming back for more drinks. The early 20th century saw the rise of crisps (or chips, as they are known in some parts of the world) as a pub staple. By 1934, Britain was selling a staggering 200 million packets of crisps annually, with a whopping 95% of them coming from a single manufacturer: Smith’s. Their iconic Salt ’n’ Shake crisps were everywhere, and it wasn’t long before other snacks like KP peanuts, pork scratchings, and pickles joined the lineup. After World War II, pubs began to diversify their offerings further, introducing more substantial options like ham and cheese rolls, sausage rolls, and pies. The COVID-19 pandemic even sparked debates over whether a Scotch egg should be classified as a snack or a meal—proof that the role of pub snacks continues to be a topic of interest.
Fast-forward to the present day, and the trio of crisps, peanuts, and pork scratchings remains the holy grinity of pub snacks. These classics are almost always available, whether you’re in a cozy village pub or a bustling city bar. But the world of pub snacks has become far more exciting since the turn of the millennium. The rise of variety and innovation has opened the floodgates to a world of possibilities. LovePubSnacks.com, a leading supplier to over 5,000 pubs and bars across the UK, offers an array of quirky options like smoked pheasant and wild mushroom crisps and poppadoms served with mango chutney dip. And it’s not just humans who get to enjoy the fun—pubs are now catering to our furry friends too, with snacks like Paw Scratchies, Bark Bangers, and Sir Woofchesters flying off the shelves. Whether you’re a fan of the classics or someone who loves to try new things, there’s something for everyone in today’s pubs.
In recent years, pubs have also embraced the trend of offering more premium and gourmet snack options. While you can still find a bag of ready-salted crisps or a plate of peanuts, many establishments now provide a “bar bites” section on their menus, featuring dishes like chicken wings, pork belly bites, or even £17 slow-cooked octopus to accompany your drink. These upscale snacks blur the line between pub grub and restaurant-quality starters, offering customers a more refined experience. My local, for example, strikes a perfect balance by offering both classic crisps and peanuts alongside more sophisticated options. This approach allows pubs to cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences, ensuring there’s something for everyone—whether you’re in the mood for something simple or something a bit more indulgent.
Despite the growing emphasis on variety and sophistication, there’s no denying that traditional pub snacks still hold a special place in the hearts of many. A Sky News survey conducted on LinkedIn found that crisps of any flavor are the nation’s favorite pub snack, with an impressive 44% of the vote. Peanuts (27%) and pork scratchings (26%) closely follow, showcasing the enduring appeal of these classic options. Pub snack wholesalers like JL Brooks confirm this trend, noting that while there’s a growing demand for premium and gourmet snacks, traditional choices like ready-salted crisps and salted peanuts remain consistently popular. As one spokesperson put it, “We’ve seen a steady increase in demand for more premium, gourmet-style snacks, such as hand-cooked crisps, mixed nuts, and flavoured popcorn. However, traditional options like ready salted crisps and salted peanuts still hold their ground and are consistently requested.”
The evolution of pub snacks reflects the changing tastes and preferences of society, as well as the broader trends within the food and drink industry. While traditional snacks remain a staple, the rise of healthier and more diverse options shows that pubs are willing to adapt to meet the needs of their customers. Whether you’re a fan of the classics or someone who likes to try new things, the world of pub snacks has never been more exciting. So the next time you’re at your local, why not try something new? You never know—you might just discover your next favorite snack.
