The future King of England has made his affection for traditional British pubs abundantly clear during a series of informal visits across the nation. Prince William, the Prince of Wales, has proudly declared his love for these community institutions, describing them as essential social hubs during what remains a challenging period for the hospitality sector.
'I Absolutely Love Pubs': William's Heartfelt Declaration
During a recent trip to Scotland with his wife, Catherine, Princess of Wales, the 43-year-old prince was spotted enjoying a half pint of cider at The Goth pub. He openly told fellow patrons about his deep-rooted connection to pub culture. 'I want to help pubs. This is the best place to come and get to know each other,' William stated emphatically. 'Pubs are the heart of the community. I grew up in pubs, I absolutely love pubs.'
His words of support arrive during an incredibly tumultuous time for Britain's public houses. Just yesterday, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced that pubs would receive a fifteen percent discount on their business rates bills starting in April. This decision follows numerous warnings about increased closures within the sector. However, the move has been criticised by some as a 'partial U-turn' that is 'far too little and far too late', according to comments made in the Commons by Sir Mel. The Chancellor also risks backlash from other hospitality firms excluded from this specific support package.
The 'William Effect': A Royal Boost for Business
The Prince's public endorsements have sparked a notable phenomenon dubbed 'The William Effect'. This refers to the significant boost in patronage and revenue experienced by pubs following a royal visit or mention. Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams has described the impact of Britain's future King publicly pledging support as 'pivotal'. He noted that this effect helps 'support local pubs and enhance the spirit of community' while also 'boosting sales at a crucial time for these invaluable establishments'.
A prime example occurred in October, when William made a surprise appearance on actor Eugene Levy's travel show, The Reluctant Traveller. The unlikely pair were filmed sharing a drink at his local, the Two Brewers pub in Windsor. The episode has since skyrocketed the small pub's revenue, with owner Stuart O'Brien describing the visit as 'really good for business'. Above the table where they sat, now known as the 'royal table' or 'King's corner', hangs a commemorative plaque.
Fitzwilliams described the interview as 'extremely significant', telling The Daily Mail: 'It was relaxed and over a pint in a quintessentially English setting and the interview had an appealing, spontaneous feel to it. This pub has benefited enormously with an increase in visitors since.'
A Pattern of Pub Patronage
Prince William's support extends far beyond a single media appearance. His fondness for a casual pint has been documented at numerous establishments:
- Earlier this month, during an engagement in Birmingham, the future King delighted staff and punters by stopping for a quick drink at a nearby Wetherspoons. Keen to talk to fellow Aston Villa fans, he generously bought a round of beers for eight supporters while sipping a pint of Bulmers cider.
- In November, he left staff at the Walnut Tree Inn in Mere stunned when he stopped by with his royal entourage. Owner William Friend-James noted the Prince ordered a homemade burger and fries with a lemonade.
- In March 2024, William visited The Turf pub in Wrexham, Wales, next to Wrexham AFC's stadium, to celebrate St David's Day. He was pictured pouring a pint and downing a whisky with Hollywood star Rob McElhenney, joking about his pulling technique: 'Still got a horrible head on it... This is why I don't work behind the bar.'
- In 2023, shortly before King Charles's coronation, William and Catherine travelled via tube to the historic Dog and Duck pub in Soho. There, William poured the first pint of 'Kingmaker', a pale ale brewed for the coronation, with manager Chris Watts offering a tongue-in-cheek assessment of his skills.
Despite being affectionately dubbed 'One Pint Willy' by friend Mike Tindall due to not being 'the best of drinkers', the Prince of Wales clearly delights in the occasional pint as a way to relax, unwind, and connect with people. His down-to-earth approach, whether chatting with Villa fans or posing for photos with pub owners, reinforces his declared mission to support these vital community pillars during a period of economic strain for the industry.
