RHS preview - Bar culture aims to go up-market

SHOW ORGANISERS hope that by mixing the best of the old with new initiatives will develop a bar culture more in tune with the diversity of the show’s visitor base.
Following the success of Scotland’s Larder Live, which transformed the way food was enjoyed at the show, a similar approach is being deployed with the intention of making the bar scene more entertaining and ‘artisan’.
Replacing The Herdsman will be two new bars – one on the site of the former pub and another located at the south-east corner of the showground.
From a licensed restaurant, a bar serving revellers at the show dance and a relaxed space with live music, show organisers are hoping that, by tapping into the renaissance of good food, craft beer, artisan gin and a good old-fashioned pint, show-goers will enjoy toasting success in the ring and mingling with friends within the showground.
Visitors will still have the choice of old favourites such as the Cheers Bar, the German Bar, the Quaich and the Heather Bar as well as the Stag and the existing three bars within the Members’ Pavilion.
Commenting on the development of the offering, RHASS’ chief executive, Stephen Hutt, said: “We have consulted widely and believe that the new bars will make for a enjoyable experience for everyone. 
“We appreciate that there has been disappointment that The Herdsman is no longer, but there will still be a bar on that site – it will just be smaller and not have a live DJ. The show dance will give people a place to dance so we would ask everyone to keep an open mind and give us your feedback following the event.”
The move to review licensed premises was sparked by negative feedback on anti-social behaviour at last year’s event. 
The society hopes that by providing quality, well-managed and attractive bars and pubs, everyone will feel comfortable enjoying their favourite tipple, or discovering some of Scotland’s other drinks.
RHASS chairman, Willie Gill, said: “The show is, without doubt, a place where people come from miles around to socialise and catch up with friends and family they might not have seen all year. 
“Friendly banter and humour is great to observe and, by giving people a nice space to relax in, it can only enhance a very important part of the visitor experience.
“We are looking to appoint operators with experience of running the new bars to a high standard. By reducing queuing, for example, will cut down the temptation to buy two or three pints at a time. It’s all about creating an environment that encourages drinking less, but creating a better experience.”