JD Wetherspoon has introduced two new rules across all 792 of its venues after complaints from customers about disruptive noise. The popular pub chain has banned customers from playing music on their phones and having phone calls on loudspeaker, citing that customers were left “driven nuts” by the disruptive noise from inconsiderate guests.
Signs have now been displayed in each of the chain’s 792 pubs informing punters to use headphones or put their phones on mute. The company has previously defended its policy of not having music in its venues, which it believes lessens the enjoyment of customers.
Policy on music and phones
A Wetherspoon spokesperson said: “Unlike most pubs and restaurants, Wetherspoon pubs have always had a policy of not having music (although 44 of our 792 pubs trade as ‘Lloyds’ and have music at certain times).”
“An increasing problem in recent years relates to smartphones and iPads, which are used for videos or telephone conversations. 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,” the spokesperson added.
Founder's response
Sir Tim Martin, the chain’s founder and chairman, insisted the measures protected the enjoyment of punters in his establishments. “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,” he said.
Public frustration and support
The move comes amid increasing public frustration at the playing of music in public places. The Liberal Democrats have previously called for fines of up to £1,000 for “headphone dodgers” who play music out loud on buses and trains. A YouGov poll published in 2025 suggested 62% of people would back the move, with 28% saying they would oppose the Lib Dems’ proposed fines. The poll, which surveyed 6,815 British adults, found almost three-quarters of pensioners would support the fines, while those aged between 18 and 24 were split 47-43 in favour.
In London, Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan rolled out a campaign last year encouraging people to use headphones when playing music on the city’s transport network.
Wetherspoon opened its first pub in Muswell Hill, north London, in 1979.
