Wetherspoons stops loud phone music
In a move aimed at restoring peace and quiet to the watering holes, the massive Wetherspoons chain has introduced new rules governing how customers use their devices in its pubs.
The company has decided to ban customers from playing music or videos out loud and using speakerphones in Wetherspoons establishments. This new policy extends across all 792 pubs owned by the chain, and clear signage will be installed to remind patrons to switch devices to silent mode or use earphones.
This initiative addresses a growing concern raised by the company: the noise emanating from smartphones and tablets has become an increasing problem, leading to frequent complaints from customers who felt driven “nuts” by the sounds of video calls and music.
Wetherspoons has long maintained a relatively quiet atmosphere, with only the 44 branches operating under the Lloyds name previously allowing background music. The chain’s founder, Tim Martin, has framed the pubs as an oasis of tranquility and contemplation, a feeling that this new rule seeks to protect.
While the company intends for staff to apply the new rule using common sense, they have made it clear that compliance is an option for management, though customers who initially ignore the guidance will not be automatically removed.
The move has been broadly welcomed by industry bodies. The British Beer and Pub Association echoed this sentiment, noting that there is little desire to listen to loud video calls while enjoying a pint.
The public concern over noise is well-founded. Research from YouGov in 2025 indicated that 79 per cent of British people are bothered by people playing music or videos through their phone speakers, highlighting a widespread issue that this policy seeks to mitigate.
This decision comes amid a history of tension concerning music in Wetherspoons venues. In 2013, the company had faced opposition from musicians and artists who campaigned for the right to continue hosting live music, notably when they acquired the Edinburgh Picture House venue. This history underscores the fine line between commercial enterprise and creating a comfortable, shared public space.
The changes signal Wetherspoons’ commitment to evolving its public spaces, ensuring that the experience remains a relaxing retreat rather than a source of distraction.
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