In Jesmond, the ‘Dry January’ movement is leaving a notable impact on local pubs especially known for their student appeal.

Because of this annual campaign where people abstain from alcohol for a month, Jesmond’s pub scene is having a quiet start to 2024.

Spy Bar employee Gina Mullin said there has been a notable decrease in footfall and as a result, customers. “It’s been much quieter than usual but we did expect something like this after the Christmas period was over,” she explained.

However, students are using Dry January as an opportunity to tighten their budgets after an expensive festive season.

Student Lauren Taylor told JesmondLocal: “December was an extortionate month and January is usually quiet anyway.” She added, “If I’m ever going to do a month of no drinking, now is probably the best time.”

“I will probably envy my friends going out and drinking, but I know by February, my bank account will thank me,” Taylor said.

While Dry January poses challenges for Jesmond’s pubs, it is also contributing to students drinking more sensibly and saving money – a change that may encourage healthier habits for them, all year round.