Wetherspoon has introduced a new phone rule across its 792 pubs after customers complained about people playing music and taking calls on speakerphone. The pub chain is asking customers to keep their phones and tablets silent or use earphones rather than playing sound out loud.
What the new rule covers
The change covers music and videos as well as conversations played through a phone's loudspeaker, with Wetherspoon saying noise from devices has become an "increasing problem in recent years". It follows complaints from people who want to enjoy a drink without having to listen to other customers' phones.
The company said: "Following complaints from customers, who are being driven nuts by other people’s videos and amplified phone conversations, Wetherspoon has asked customers to switch their phones to silent or to use earphones."
Staff guidance and enforcement
Staff will be expected to use "common sense" when dealing with anyone who breaks the new rule. Wetherspoon told the BBC: "We are not looking to ask anyone to leave a pub if they go against the ruling, but it is an option for managers if they refuse to do so."
The rule will also apply at Wetherspoon's 44 Lloyds bars, where music is played during the evening.
Founder's view and industry support
Most Wetherspoon pubs do not play music, something founder and chairman Sir Tim Martin believes is an important part of their atmosphere. He said: "In a world dominated by other people’s music and amplified sound, Wetherspoon pubs are an oasis of tranquillity and contemplation.
"In order to avoid customers being driven chicken jalfrezi by a cacophony of sound, we are kindly asking phone users to pipe down."
The British Beer and Pub Association, which represents Wetherspoon and other pub companies, has also backed having clear rules. It said: "Having a clear policy helps staff enforce rules and customers know what they can and can't do.
"We're yet to hear of anyone who relishes having a pint against the backdrop of a speakerphone call or someone loudly playing a video, so we expect this move will be greatly welcomed."
Public frustration with phone noise
Research suggests phone noise in public places is a common frustration. A Transport for London survey of 1,000 people last year found 70% considered loud music and phone calls without headphones a nuisance.
A separate YouGov poll published in 2025 found 62% would support fines of up to £1,000 for people playing music aloud on public transport, an idea previously put forward by the Liberal Democrats. Some 28% opposed the proposal.
