Number of UK nightclubs has halved in the past decade

The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic did not help with this pattern, which was coupled with changing consumer habits, the report claimed.

Research company CGA NIQ said its study found that 10 years ago, Britain had around 1,700 nightclubs, but in June this year the total stood at 873.

Karl Chessell, of CGA NIQ, said: “Covid-19 hit nightclubs harder than any other licensed sector, and lockdowns were the final straw for hundreds of venues.

“But our research shows the late-night market isn’t disappearing – it’s just changing. Bars, pubs, competitive socialising venues and other new leisure concepts all now rival nightclubs, giving consumers a greater choice of venues than ever.

People's changing habits are part of the reason why nightclubs are on the decline (Image: Garrett White/PA Wire)

“Young adults remain eager for big nights out with their friends, and while clubs are still a part of their mix they are also open to alternatives that deliver memorable social experiences and good value.”

UK late-night scene is changing

The report did emphasise the damage done to nightclubs by the Covid pandemic as they were among the last venues to emerge from trading restrictions.

This also appeared to alter people's habits slightly as people are still keen to go on nights out but mix it up by going to bars more often.

Graeme Smith, managing director of AlixPartners – which helped with the research, added: “This latest data highlights just how severely the night-time industry has been impacted by both the pandemic, changing consumer behaviour and increasing competition in the late night market.

“We’ve seen a recent explosion of experiential bar and restaurant concepts across the industry, and with bars and other venues also now staying open later into the early hours, consumers have a wide array of experiences and options to choose from.”