The UK areas most committed to quitting drinking, according to new research

 UK residential rehab provider Abbeycare Foundation analysed Google data to discover which areas had the highest search volume for terms such as ‘alcoholics anonymous’, ‘how to quit drinking’, and ‘how to give up alcohol’. The search volume for each term was combined and weighted against population to determine the ranking. 

Top of the list is Walsall with an average monthly search volume of 329 per 100,000 people; the most Googled search term was ‘alcoholics anonymous’, with a total of 620 searches. The Walsall Arboretum is a great way for locals to swap out the weekend drinks for some fresh air and be surrounded by greenery, whether that be a solo trip or a family visit. 

 Inverness is in second place, with a search volume of 288 on average each month for every 100,000th person. The city is close to many scenic spots, including Loch Ness, which is just 20 minutes away. So, instead of spending weekends in bars, locals can take a short trip outside the city to appreciate the Scottish landscapes for a stress-relieving activity. 

 Wrexham places third with an average monthly search volume of 249 per 100,000 people. The city offers plenty of things to do that don’t involve alcohol, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. The landmark consists of embankments, tunnels, and viaducts around the River Dee, making it an excellent activity for exploring and de-stressing. 

 In fourth place is Wigan, which received an average search volume of 220 each month for every 100,000th citizen. Wigan’s Three Sisters Nature Reserve is an excellent way to relax and relieve tension by soaking in the views of the lake and watching the wildlife, such as grey herons and mute swans. 

 Hereford takes the fifth spot, which takes an average monthly search volume of 219 per 100,000 people. Locals can take a short trip outside the city to visit The Weir Garden, an attraction in the care of the National Trust, which boasts floral scenery and green spaces overlooking the River Wye; so, it’s the perfect place to unwind. 

 Bath is in sixth place with a search volume of 212 on average each month for every 100,000th person. Bath has many attractions to stay entertained, including Bath Abbey and Pulteney Bridge, and the city offers 23 different Alcoholics Anonymous meetings within a five-mile radius. 

 Next on the list is Chester, which received an average monthly search volume of 210 per 100,000 people. Chester’s city walls are not only a historical landmark that makes a great outdoor activity to blow off steam, but they overlook the city so that you can appreciate the views while taking a two-mile walk around the circuit. 

 Mansfield is Eighth in the ranking, with an average search volume of 186 each month for every 100,000th citizen. Mansfield is home to Sherwood Pines Forest Park, so whether you visit for a stroll to see the forest landscape or cycle around the woodlands, you’re bound to find relaxation. 

 Following closely behind is Lincoln in ninth place with an average search volume of 176 per 100,000 people. There are many ways to stay busy in Lincoln, but Hartsholme Country Park in particular, is an excellent way to relieve stress with the landscaped gardens, a tranquil reservoir, and lots of wildlife. 

 Last on the list in tenth place is Norwich, which takes an average monthly search volume of 175 for every 100,000th person. With just a short drive out of the city, you can visit The Broads National Park and partake in cycling, boating, birdwatching, and much more to take it easy and loosen up. 

 A spokesperson from Abbeycare Foundation has commented: “It’s fascinating to see which areas of the UK are most committed to quitting drinking, particularly when you consider the drinking culture across the nation. Drinking alcohol is associated with many occasions in everyday life, including football games, after-work socialising, dining out, and even at home after a long day of working – but it’s there are lots of ways to enjoy activities with friends and family that can relieve stress and don’t involve alcohol.  

 
Spending time with nature in green spaces can significantly reduce the stress hormone cortisol, so it’s a perfect way to spend weekends, perhaps after a hectic week of work, instead of having a drink.  

 Fortunately, there are an array of natural attractions all around the UK – so the rest of the UK has many opportunities to unwind. 

 However, it’s essential to be aware of the signs of alcohol addiction, including consumption of larger amounts than usual, using alcohol in instances where it can be a hazard, and insomnia or nausea when experiencing withdrawal.” 

 This information was provided by Abbeycare Foundation, a residential rehab provider with clinics around the UK.