Strongbow has launched Refreshing the Nation, a new campaign celebrating the regional expressions, rituals and moments that make British drinking culture unique.
Research commissioned by the cider producer revealed the rich variety of phrases and traditions passed down through generations that accompany Britain’s favourite drinking moment.
Drinkers in London are the most likely to let you a cheerful “banger” after a gulp, while Scotland are more inclined to mutter “braw” once their pint has hit their lips. IN the East Midlands, the first sip isn’t complete without saying “bosh”, while the North West are more likely to declare it “boss”.
While millions of Britons have their own way of expressing satisfaction after a refreshing drink, “luvverly” emerged as the nation’s most commonly used first-sip phrase (17%), followed by “lush” (10%), “class” (9%) and “phwoar” (7%).
Dr Chris Montgomery, senior lecturer in dialectology at the University of Sheffield partnered with Strongbow to help uncover the history of the first sip languages across the country.
Montgomery said: “People often talk about regional dialects as if they’re disappearing, but these findings suggest the opposite and, if anything, show that reports of Britain’s regional dialects dying out have been greatly exaggerated. From ‘belter’ in Glasgow to ‘boss’ in Liverpool and ‘lush’ in Wales, Britain is still proudly speaking in local voices – especially when it comes to moments of joy.
“What’s fascinating is that nobody needs to say ‘luvverly’ or ‘braw’ to show they’re enjoying a drink. These expressions are really social badges. They tell us where people are from, the communities they belong to and the local identities they’re proud to carry.
“Some of these words have survived for generations, outlasting the industries, jobs and ways of life that first created them. The fact they’re still being used to celebrate something as simple as a refreshing first sip shows just how deeply regional language is woven into British culture.
“In many ways, we’re at our most regional when we’re expressing happiness. Whether it’s reacting to a football result or taking that first cold drink on a hot summer’s day, these everyday moments are helping keep local dialects alive.”
The findings come as Strongbow launches ‘Refreshing The Nation’, a campaign celebrating the words and expressions that make communities across Britain unique while recognising the shared moments that bring the nation together.
Max Wainwright, brand unit director cider at Heineken UK, said: “One of the things I love about Britain is how every corner of the country has its own way of saying things. Growing up in the Northwest, words like ‘boss’, ‘belter’ or ‘sound’ were just part of everyday life, and it turns out every region has its own version of that.
“What this research shows is that while the words might change from place to place, the sentiment behind them is exactly the same. Whether you’re calling something ‘lush’, ‘proper good’ or simply ‘luvverly’, it’s all about sharing a bit of positivity and appreciation.
“Refreshing The Nation is about celebrating those local quirks and the pride people have in where they’re from. There’s no single way to sound ‘British’ and that’s exactly what makes Britain such a brilliant place.”
