Wetherspoons has introduced a ban on customers playing music or taking phone calls on loudspeakers across all 792 of its pubs, in a bid to create an 'oasis of tranquility'. The pub chain said the antisocial noise was driving customers 'nuts'.
Ban introduced after complaints
The ban took effect on Monday, with the company saying that sounds from smartphones and tablets had become an 'increasing problem in recent years'. In a statement, Wetherspoons 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.'
Wetherspoons is the first pub chain to forbid the use of loudspeakers on its premises. Signs have been put up in all 792 pubs telling customers to use headphones or put their phones on mute.
Founder's comment
Wetherspoon chairman and founder Sir Tim Martin said: 'In a world dominated by other people's music and amplified sound, Wetherspoon pubs are an oasis of tranquillity and contemplation.' He added: 'In order to avoid customers being driven chicken jalfrezi by a cacophony of sound, we are kindly asking phone users to pipe down.'
Wider context
The move follows a 'Headphones On' awareness campaign launched by Transport for London last year. The Liberal Democrats have also called for fines of up to £1,000 for 'headphone dodgers' who blast music out loud on buses and trains.
A poll in 2025 suggested that 62% of people would back the idea, while 28% opposed the fines. The proposal was most popular among pensioners, with three-quarters of respondents supporting it.
