Buying alcohol

Buying alcohol if you're under 18

If you’re under 18, it’s against the law for someone to sell you alcohol and it’s also illegal to buy or try to buy alcohol.

Don’t ask your older friends or relatives to buy alcohol for you if you’re under 18. It’s illegal for an adult to buy or try to buy alcohol for under 18s so you’ll be putting them in a difficult position!

If you’re under 18, it’s illegal to drink in public places and it’s also against the law to drink in licensed premises. Our policy at Greene King is not to allow anyone under the age of 18 to consume alcohol within any of our premises. We believe this is a responsible approach to protect children and our licensed premises in the sale of alcohol.

Buying alcohol if you're over 18

If you’re over 18 and lucky enough to look young enough, you may be asked to prove your age when buying alcohol.

Here at Greene King, all of our sites operate a ‘Challenge 21’ or ‘Challenge 25’ scheme. Our tills remind our team members behind the bar to check your age.

Acceptable ID could include a photo driving licence, a passport, a proof of age scheme card that carries the PASS hologram or military ID. Ultimately, it’s up to the discretion of the manager or the person responsible for running the premises as to whether they will accept certain forms of ID.

Don’t be tempted to buy alcohol for underage drinkers. It could result in a hefty fine!