Landlord Stands Firm on No-Smoking Policy in Pub’s Outdoor Areas
John Garrod, the landlord of the Hope Inn in Hythe, Kent, has recently made headlines for his decision to implement a ban on smoking in all outdoor areas of his pub, including the beer garden and patio. The 72-year-old, who himself does not smoke, believes that this move will appeal to customers looking to enjoy a drink or a meal outside without inhaling second-hand smoke. Despite facing criticism from some locals who view the ban as ‘woke’ and overly controlling, Mr. Garrod stands by his decision, arguing that the comfort of the majority of his patrons is paramount.
The ban on smoking in indoor spaces like pubs and restaurants was introduced across most of the UK in 2007. However, regulations did not extend to outdoor areas such as beer gardens. Last year, there were talks about including outdoor spaces in the smoking ban, but the plans were eventually scrapped due to pushback from the hospitality industry. Despite this, Mr. Garrod took matters into his own hands and decided to enforce a no-smoking policy on the entire premises of the Hope Inn, requiring smokers to leave the area to smoke.
In response to concerns raised by customers who enjoy smoking while socialising, Mr. Garrod acknowledged that the move might lead to the loss of some patrons, particularly those who prefer to drink without dining. However, he emphasised that the majority of his clientele are non-smokers who visit the pub primarily for meals. By creating a smoke-free environment, Mr. Garrod aims to enhance the overall experience for his customers, especially during busy periods in the garden throughout the summer.
While the ban has elicited mixed reactions from the community, with some expressing disappointment at the restrictions on their smoking habits, others have voiced support for the initiative. One supporter, Ann Longstaff, commended the decision, highlighting the potential discomfort caused by second-hand smoke for non-smokers enjoying the outdoor space. Mr. Garrod remains resolute in his stance, noting that the feedback he has received, both online and in-person, has been largely positive, reinforcing his belief that the ban will ultimately attract more customers than it repels.
In the face of criticism and concerns about potential revenue losses, especially from patrons who smoke, Mr. Garrod remains optimistic about the business prospects of the Hope Inn. He anticipates that more establishments may follow suit in implementing non-smoking policies in outdoor areas voluntarily, as a means of catering to the preferences of the majority of their clientele. As the debate around smoking policies in public spaces continues, Mr. Garrod’s decision serves as a pioneering example of prioritising the well-being and preferences of customers in a changing social landscape.
As the ban on smoking in the pub’s outdoor areas takes effect, discussions have also arisen around the allowance of vaping on the premises. While Mr. Garrod views vaping as less intrusive than traditional smoking, he remains open to reassessing the policy based on feedback and observations. With his wife, Noiy, overseeing the pub’s adjacent Thai street food restaurant, the couple is committed to maintaining a welcoming and inclusive environment for all patrons, while upholding standards that align with the evolving expectations of their clientele.