A heated debate surrounding children in pubs has been settled, for now, at a popular east London establishment. William The Fourth in Leyton has officially brought forward its evening ban on under-18s, now prohibiting them from the premises after 7pm.
The Decision and Its Rationale
The pub management made the decision based on direct feedback from its customers. In a statement, the pub addressed complaints that 'the pub has resembled a creche' at times. The previous policy had allowed children until 8pm.
Outlining the new rules on Instagram, the pub explained: 'Unsupervised children can pose risks not only to themselves but also to other customers and our team.' They were quick to affirm their daytime family-friendly status but stated the evening change was necessary 'to ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable environment for all our guests.'
Creating an Adult-Only Evening Atmosphere
From 7pm each day, William The Fourth will transform into an 'adults-only space'. This move is designed to give adult patrons a child-free atmosphere in the evening while still offering families generous daytime hours, as the pub opens its doors from 3pm.
The response from the public has been divided. While many online comments have supported the new rules, the decision has also faced significant kick-back from some local parents.
More Than Just a Pub: A Award-Winning Pizza Destination
This policy change comes at a time when the pub is also gaining recognition for its culinary offerings. William The Fourth is home to 'the best pizza in the UK', with its kitchen residents, Short Road Pizza, recently scooping the top prize at the National Pizza Awards.
The award-winning signature pizza was a glammed-up marinara, topped with garlic purée, a dose of chimichurri, burrata cheese, and anchovies. For those not in Leyton, you can also sample Short Road's wares at the Three Colts Tavern in Bethnal Green.
Both pubs are run by the independent beer champions, Exale Brewing. Exale took over the historic William The Fourth, a pub that dates back to 1897, earlier this year.
