Wetherspoon has confirmed the closure of The William Jameson in Sunderland, a pub with a history dating back to the 19th century. The pub, located on one of the city's busiest streets, will serve its last drinks on Sunday, April 19.
The William Jameson is named after the man responsible for laying out Sunderland's Fawcett Street in the early 1800s. Building work on the street began in 1814, and by 1844 it was virtually complete with imposing three- and four-storey houses. The pub was put up for sale in July 2025.
Locals have expressed shock and upset at the closure. On Facebook, one customer described it as serving "probably the best pints and grub south of the Tyne." Another noted: "From three down to one now, but new owners will be investing in the place, badly needs a renovation."
Once, Sunderland city centre had three Wetherspoon pubs: The William Jameson, The Lambton Worm, and the Cooper Rose. After April 19, only the Cooper Rose will remain.
