As the festive season gets into full swing, many Brits will be heading to their local Wetherspoons for a budget-friendly pint or meal. However, the UK's largest pub chain has a set of clear rules that customers are expected to follow all year round, not just at Christmas.
Essential Behaviour and Entry Policies
Wetherspoons expects all patrons to behave appropriately within the pub environment, showing consideration for both staff and other customers. The company states it will not tolerate any form of abusive, harassing, or illegal behaviour. Employees have the right to work free from verbal or physical abuse, and the chain will work with police to prosecute offenders.
On the matter of entry, most pubs do not charge a fee, but it's advised to check with your specific venue in advance for special events. Importantly, the management reserves the right to refuse service or entry without providing a reason.
Dress Code and Animal Policies
Given its family-friendly environment, Wetherspoons asks customers to dress appropriately. Clothing must not cause offence, and all guests must remain fully clothed, including wearing shirts and footwear at all times. Slogans, accessories, and visible tattoos should be inoffensive. Some locations may operate specific dress codes, so it's best to check directly with the pub you plan to visit.
The policy on animals is strict. With the exception of accredited assistance dogs, animals are not permitted inside pubs, hotels, gardens, or car parks. This explicitly excludes emotional support dogs and all other pets. The chain cites reasons including potential unpredictable behaviour, customer allergies, and the preference of many diners not to have dogs present during meals.
Rules for Families and Vaping
Families are welcome, but rules for under-18s are specific. While 16- and 17-year-olds can visit without adult supervision for food and soft drinks during permitted hours (which vary by pub), children under 16 must always be accompanied by an adult over 18. Some pubs may require an entire party with an under-18 to order a main meal if alcohol is purchased.
Critically, under-18s are not permitted to purchase or consume alcohol, use gaming machines, or drink low-alcohol or non-alcoholic beers and ciders on the premises. Managers have full discretion to limit or refuse alcohol service to entire groups.
Finally, the use of electronic cigarettes or vaporisers is only allowed in designated smoking areas. This prohibition extends to all other parts of the premises, including hotel rooms and external areas.
