Dry January 2025 Complete Guide with Rules and Practical Tips

The start of a brand new year often brings new resolutions, and for many people here in Tunbridge Wells and the UK in general, this means taking part in Dry January. The movement, spearheaded by Alcohol Change UK, encourages you to go alcohol-free for the first 31 days of the year. It’s a great way to reset your relationship with drinking, but it’s not meant to be a punishment. Here’s everything you need to know to take part in Dry January 2025, while still maintaining a healthy social life and enjoying the warm, cosy atmosphere of your local pub!

What is Dry January?

Dry January began as a campaign to promote healthier drinking habits. The idea is quite simple: abstain from alcohol for the month of January. The challenge has grown in popularity over the last few years, with Tesco reporting that the movement has contributed to a massive 40% growth in demand for zero-alcohol spirits alone! Today, millions of people take part in the challenge worldwide.

The challenge also has several benefits. According to Alcohol Change UK, 70% of participants report sleeping better, and 66% feel more energised.

The challenge isn’t just about cutting out alcohol; it’s about gaining a better understanding of your own drinking habits, exploring alternatives, and learning to have a better relationship with alcohol. Many people taking part find that they enjoy the benefits so much that they make long-term changes to the way they drink alcohol throughout the year, such as switching to low/no alcohol drinks during the week.

What Are the Benefits of Dry January?

The benefits of going alcohol-free are pretty diverse, and much of it depends on your goals. Below are some of the most commonly reported positive side effects you can look forward to:

• Improved General Health: Better sleep, reduced blood pressure, and even weight loss are common.
• Clearer Mind: Many people report feeling mentally more focused and less prone to anxiety.
• Social Life Minus Alcohol: A surprising benefit is discovering and exploring new ways to socialise and have fun without alcohol, even down at your local pub!

It’s not just a dry start to the year, it’s a refreshing reboot.

What Are the Rules for Dry January?

The rules are simple, but it’s so vital to remember that the challenge is not there to punish you, or make you feel bad if you slip up!

• No Alcohol: Abstain from all alcoholic beverages for the entire month. This includes wine, beer, spirits, and even that cheeky sip at a party.
• No Excuses: Social gatherings are not an excuse for alcohol. If you’re going to a party, bring your favourite non-alcoholic beer, spirit, wine, or gin. Most pubs and bars now stock a variety of low/no alcohol drinks.
• Stay Positive: Focus on the benefits you’re gaining rather than what you’re giving up. Cross days off on a calendar, and count down to the end of the month!

Visiting Your Local Pub During Dry January

It may seem counterintuitive at first, but popping down to the pub a few evenings during Dry January is even recommended by Alcohol Change UK!

Dry January doesn’t mean you need to skip social outings or avoid the pub. In fact, your local pub offers a warm, welcoming space to catch up with friends and have a great time without the need for alcohol.

Here at the George, we firmly believe that pubs have always been about more than just drinking. Rather, it’s a safe place to relax, unwind, and celebrate. Whether it’s catching up with friends or meeting new people, pubs offer an atmosphere that’s almost impossible to replicate elsewhere.

We’ll be stocking a range of low/no alcohol drinks for you to explore this January, as well as soft drinks, tea and coffee, and of course, hearty pub food!

Exploring 0% and Low-Alcohol Options

The rise of Dry January has spurred an explosion in the variety of non-alcoholic and low-alcohol drinks available. Here’s what we’ll have on offer here at The George, and at our sister pubs, The Ragged Trousers and The Sussex Arms, both in The Pantiles in Tunbridge Wells.

The George

Beers

• Bitburger Drive (0.0%) (On draught and in bottles)
• Lucky Saint & Lucky Saint Hazy IPA (0.5%) (In bottles)
• Adnam’s Ghost Ship (0.5%) (In bottles)
• Guinness 0% (In cans)
• Only With Love Juicy AF (0.5%) (In cans)

Spirits

• Whitley Neill Raspberry ‘gin’
• Pentiree Seaward ‘gin’

The Ragged Trousers

Beers

• Bitburger Drive (0.0%) (On draught and in bottles)
• Erdinger (0.0%) (In bottles)
• Guinness 0% (In cans)

Spirits

• Tanqueray 0%
• Whitley Neill Raspberry 0%

The Sussex Arms

Beers

• Bitburger Drive (0.0%) (In bottles)
• Peroni (0.0%) (In bottles)
• Guinness 0% (In cans)
• Rotating guest non-alcoholic beer on draught

Spirits

• Tanqueray 0%
• Whitley Neill Raspberry 0%

Food and More in January: Beyond the Drinks

A pub visit isn’t just about drinking; it’s also about the food and entertainment. Our kitchen here at the George serves up a delicious menu, from a hearty Sunday roast to warm up your January afternoons to burgers and lighter bites throughout the week. Whether you’re in the mood for a full meal or a quick snack, there’s something for everyone.

Over at The Ragged Trousers, you can enjoy authentic French brasserie dishes alongside pub classics, while next door at The Philanthropist, you can indulge in scrumptious cakes, brownies, and freshly brewed pots of tea and artisan coffee.

For entertainment, don’t forget to keep an eye out for pub quizzes and events at The Sussex Arms, and live music over at the Tunbridge Wells Forum.

Tips for a Successful Dry January

Sticking to Dry January is easier when you have a plan. These handy tips can help keep you on track.

1. Set clear goals: Write down why you’re doing this, then, revisit it often, and make a note of any progress you notice. For example, if you’re doing it to improve your sleep, you could keep a sleep diary.

2. Track your progress: make use of physical journals or apps to log your alcohol-free days and how you feel physically and mentally.

3. Team up with an accountability buddy: Partner with friends or family members who are also doing Dry January so you keen encourage one another!

4. Explore new habits: Explore new ways to socialise and have fun, from trying 0% alcohol alternatives at pubs and bars to trying out new social activities altogether, such as hiking, taking up a sport, or even something creative.

5. Celebrate milestones: Treat yourself to something special for reaching each alcohol-free week, and remind yourself of your achievement!

Warning!

Those who are considered clinically alcohol dependent can suffer serious harm and even death if they suddenly stop drinking alcohol. If you experience any of the following symptoms while sobering up, you may be alcohol dependent and should get advice from your GP or health professional before taking part in Dry January. They will be able to help you stop drinking safely. Withdrawal symptoms to watch out for include fits, shaking hands, sweating, seeing things that are not real, depression, anxiety, and insomnia.

Bottoms Up

Dry January is an excellent opportunity to reset and recharge, but it doesn’t mean you have to give up on the things you enjoy. Visiting your local pub can still be a highlight of your week, thanks to the range of alcohol-free drinks, delicious food, and welcoming atmosphere on offer!

For more information about Dry January, visit Alcohol Change UK. Let’s enjoy a safe, fresh start to the year together!

FAQs About Dry January

What is Dry January?

Dry January is a month-long challenge created by Alcohol Change UK, encouraging people to give up alcohol for the whole of January. It’s a chance to reset your relationship with drinking and enjoy the benefits of going alcohol-free.

What are the benefits of 30 days of no alcohol?

People report many benefits, including better sleep, improved energy levels, clearer skin, weight loss, mental clarity, reduced blood pressure, and saving money.

What are the rules of Dry January?

The rules are simple: avoid alcohol completely for the 31 days of January. Stay committed, and if you slip up, don’t give up! Just pick up where you left off, keep going, and focus on the progress you’re making.

Can I drink low-alcohol drinks during Dry January?

If they contain a trace amount of alcohol (less than 0.5%), they’re considered 0% alcohol and should be fine to drink. In fact, Alcohol Change UK recommends that you stock up on Alcohol-Free drinks in preparation for Dry January. That said, the choice is yours.

Is it okay to eat food cooked with alcohol?

Alcohol in food usually cooks off during preparation, but if you’re concerned, just ask before ordering.

Do I need to sign up officially to take part in Dry January?

No, you don’t need to sign up to anything to take part in Dry January. However, signing up formally through Alcohol Change UK can give you access to lots of free information and resources that you may find useful.