Top UK Nightlife City Survey
A new survey by Luxardo sambuca reveals that northern cities have the most to offer for a top night out. The initiative is one of the first to use social networking sites exclusively for its data capture. Out of 20 cities, Manchester came first and Newcastle followed, based on the number of votes received. Birmingham, Edinburgh, Leeds, Liverpool, London, Nottingham, Plymouth, Wakefield and Wolverhampton (not ranked here) also gained enthusiastic support. Encouraging spontaneity, responses via Facebook and MySpace were sought from 18 to 30 year olds, as they were invited to join the debate and nominate their own city or another. Some 1800 comments were received between April and November 2008.
- Birmingham and Nottingham are easy going, 'something for everyone' cities.
- Edinburgh swung ahead of Glasgow, and respondents rated the Scottish capital's historic beauty as enhancing the night-out experience.
- Leeds has its edgy underground music scene, but Wakefield is Yorkshire's top city for straight-as-they-come genial style, and a sense of safety. Wakefield stands out as the home of diverse influencers who shape Britain for the 18 to 30 year old generation. They include The Cribs, The Mighty Boosh's Julian Barratt and rugby player Mike Tindall, who are proudly adopted by locals as 'Wakefield boys'.
- Liverpool's regeneration has given it new sophisticated options for a night out.
- London provoked the most opinionated comments, as a city of extremes to love or hate.
- Manchester has the best all-time style influencers, and the best music and individual style.
- Newcastle seals its reputation as the best city for a memorable party night, but also for its quality entertainment hubs such as Metro Radio Arena, and The Sage in Gateshead.
- Plymouth is the UK's magnet for students. Its easily accessible sun, sea and surf complement the bar scene.
- Wolverhampton's status as a relatively new city was rated for its multi-cultural entertainment, drinking and eating venues. It is tipped as being the next big city to watch.
Respondents were fiercely loyal about their own cities, but top influencers were the diversity of bars and pubs, as well as contemporary personalities associated with the city. Alongside this, Luxardo undertook an education drive with a responsible drinking message. Luxardo plans to run it annually.
