Wetherspoons Bans Loudspeaker Calls And Music Across Its Pubs

Wetherspoons Bans Loudspeaker Calls and Music Across Its Pubs

British pub chain JD Wetherspoon has banned customers from playing music, videos or taking telephone calls on loudspeaker across its 792 pubs, following complaints that the noise was driving other customers “nuts. The new rule asks customers to keep their phones on silent or use earphones when watching videos, listening to music or making calls. Wetherspoon said amplified sounds from smartphones and tablets had become an “increasing problem in recent years”, particularly as more people use their devices for video calls and social media. The company’s founder and chairman, Sir Tim Martin, said the policy was intended to preserve the traditionally quiet atmosphere of Wetherspoon pubs. He described the pubs as an “oasis of tranquillity and contemplation”, joking that customers should “pipe down” to avoid being driven “chicken jalfrezi” by a cacophony of sound. Wetherspoon traditionally does not play background music in most of its pubs, although 44 of its 792 venues operate under the Lloyds brand and play music at certain times. The move comes amid wider complaints in Britain about people playing music, videos and making speakerphone calls in public places. Transport for London has previously run a campaign encouraging passengers to use headphones. A 2025 YouGov poll also found that 62% of respondents supported fines of up to £1,000 for people who play music aloud on public transport. Wetherspoon has not said what specific action will be taken against customers who ignore the new rule, but signs have been placed across its pubs reminding patrons to keep device audio private.