Howard Spooner, the former owner of some of London's most exclusive nightclubs, has lifted the lid on what it was really like dealing with Prince Harry, Geri Horner, and other celebrities. Now running The George Hotel on the Isle of Wight and the Sexy Lobster restaurant in Bournemouth, Spooner has turned his back on the nightlife scene and shared his candid experiences.
Prince Harry: A 'loveable buffoon' with entitlement
Spooner, who owned clubs including Public, Embargo, and Leopard Lounge, recalled that Prince Harry was a 'friendly, loveable buffoon' on a night out, but never a personal friend. He noted that Harry's behaviour often changed after a few drinks and in the company of a close-knit group of friends. While polite in quieter moments, Spooner remembered occasions when Harry 'showed his entitlement', making fun of those around him whom he saw as beneath him, attributing it to a 'private school mentality'.
Dealing with demanding celebrities
Spooner also recounted an incident with Spice Girls star Geri Halliwell, who arrived at one of his packed venues and told him the club was 'so boring', despite being full. He described the constant demands for VIP tables, free champagne, and special treatment, with abuse often following if someone was refused entry. 'If people can be that rude, they feel like they can say stuff like that – it's mad. But now, you have to be accountable. Celebrities got away with too much back then. Nowadays, the lid's off,' he said.
Juggling royalty, gangsters, and police
Running a nightclub meant juggling celebrities, royalty, gangsters, police, and paying customers, all while keeping the business afloat. 'You've got to see human nature. When people want something they're used to getting, and they don't get it, they get very, very upset. The toys come out of the pram,' Spooner reflected.
A new chapter in hospitality
Spooner's focus has now shifted to The George Hotel in Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight, a Grade II listed 17th-century townhouse, and the newly opened Sexy Lobster restaurant on Bournemouth seafront. Both venues boast fully booked evenings, modern Italian-inspired menus, and stunning seaside views. Spooner believes hospitality is about creating memorable experiences without becoming distracted by status.
