Dry January in Stratford: The Ultimate Guide to Mocktails & Alcohol-Free Days Out (2026)

Let’s be honest: the hardest part of Dry January isn’t skipping the alcohol. It’s the boredom.

For years, the “designated driver” option in most pubs was limited to a lukewarm orange juice or a sugary cola. It felt like a punishment. But in 2026, Stratford-upon-Avon’s hospitality scene has finally caught up.

We are now seeing venues treat their alcohol-free menus with the same respect as their wine lists, using distilled botanicals, foraged ingredients, and high-quality zero-proof spirits. Whether you are strictly T-total, doing “Damp January,” or just want a clear head for the school run tomorrow, you no longer have to compromise on the experience.

Here is your definitive, insider’s guide to drinking well in Stratford this month.

1. The “Fancy” Night Out: Best Cocktail Bars

Just because you aren’t drinking doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the theatre of a cocktail shaker. If you want a venue that feels special—perfect for a date night or a catch-up with friends—these are the top picks.

The RSC Rooftop Restaurant

You might think of the RSC Rooftop purely for pre-theatre dining, but their bar team is arguably the best in town for alcohol-free creativity. For 2026, they have launched a dedicated “Sober Sips” menu that goes far beyond fruit juice.

The standout order is the “Espresso Martin-no.” It is a genius twist on the classic, using cold brew espresso, hazelnut syrup, and gomme to create that rich, velvety foam top without the vodka.

Insider Tip: You don’t need a theatre ticket to go up. Just take the lift to the 3rd floor. It’s the perfect spot to watch the winter sun set over the river.

The Woodsman (Hotel Indigo)

The Woodsman is known for its “field-to-fork” philosophy, and that extends to the glass. This is the place to go if you want a drink that isn’t too sweet.

Try the Virgin Cosmopolitan (cranberry, lime, and orange oil), which has that signature “dry” finish that many mocktails lack. Alternatively, their Elderflower Fizz uses premium pressé and fresh botanicals to mimic the crispness of Prosecco.

2. The “Proper Pub” Experience

Sometimes you don’t want a fancy glass; you want a pint and a packet of crisps by a fire. The good news is that the beer selection has improved drastically.

The Dirty Duck (Waterside)

A Stratford institution, The Dirty Duck has embraced the zero-alcohol trend with open arms. They are currently pouring Guinness 0.0 on draught. If you are a stout drinker, you will know this is the “holy grail” of alcohol-free options. The texture and taste are remarkably close to the real thing.

Sitting in the Actors’ Bar with a pint of 0% Guinness is a rite of passage for any Dry January participant in Stratford.

The One Elm

The One Elm is pushing “Low & No” hard this January. It is one of the few places in Stratford where you can often find Lucky Saint (a superior unfiltered lager) on draught or in bottles. They also stock a solid range of alcohol-free gins, served properly in large glasses with plenty of ice and garnish.

Food Pairing: If you are eating, their winter menu currently features a Mushroom & Celeriac Cottage Pie that pairs brilliantly with a crisp alcohol-free lager.

3. The Social Alternative: Lush Book Club

If you want to remove the temptation entirely, the best strategy is to switch your social activity. Instead of “going for a drink,” try a completely different evening out.

Lush (on High Street) is hosting a Book Club event on Thursday, Jan 29th at 6:30 PM. They will be discussing the bestseller The Seven Year Slip. Tickets are £15, but that includes a goody bag, themed snacks, and—crucially—non-alcoholic refreshments.