The Wetherspoon pub chain, known for its affordability and rich history, has been a staple of British culture since its first location opened in 1979 in Muswell Hill, north London. Originally a converted bookmaker’s shop, the chain grew to a peak of 955 pubs before settling at its current count of 799. This slight decline is attributed to challenges such as the cost-of-living crisis, higher rents, increased National Insurance contributions, and rising energy costs. However, Wetherspoon remains a beloved institution, with its mix of historic buildings, unique atmospheres, and unbeatable prices drawing fans from across the country.
Among the most dedicated of these fans are Mags Thomson and Peter Dobson, who have collectively visited nearly every Wetherspoon pub in the UK. Thomson, a 76-year-old retired personal assistant from Livingston, West Lothian, has visited more than 1,000 Wetherspoons, while Dobson, a 48-year-old health and fire safety adviser from Eastbourne, East Sussex, has explored 602. Their journeys began in different ways: Thomson discovered Wetherspoon while accompanying her late husband on trainspotting trips, while Dobson was drawn by the chain’s affordable prices and architectural charm. Both have developed a deep appreciation for the pubs’ character and history, often tied to their conversions from historic buildings like theaters, churches, and cinemas.
When asked to name their favorite Wetherspoon pubs, Thomson and Dobson highlighted several standout locations, each with its own unique charm. The Opera House in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, stands out for its Grade II-listed Edwardian baroque interior, complete with chandeliers and a copper dome. Dobson describes it as his favorite, praising its ornate ceilings and the fact that it still hosts annual opera performances. Thomson, on the other hand, favors the Waterend Barn in St Albans, Hertfordshire, a 16th-century barn-turned-pub with a cozy atmosphere and textile art by Barbara Weeks. Both agree that the best Wetherspoons are those that保留 their original architectural features while offering a welcoming space for patrons.
Other top picks include The Palladium in Llandudno, a grand former cinema with original theater boxes, and The Winter Gardens in Harrogate, a former Victorian-era glass-roofed strollway that now features a stunning central staircase. Dobson also raves about The West Kirk in Ayr, a former Free Church with a striking exterior and a first-floor balcony, though he admits its stark design is polarizing. Thomson, meanwhile, loves The Caley Picture House in Edinburgh, a former Art Deco cinema turned pub, for its atmospheric upper circle seating area overlooking the old stage.
Many Wetherspoon pubs are celebrated not just for their interiors but also for their connections to local history and culture. For example, The Royal Victoria Pavilion in Ramsgate, Kent, is the largest Wetherspoon pub and boasts a sleek curved roof and a grand atrium. It was once a casino and nightclub before its restoration in 2018. Similarly, The Velvet Coaster in Blackpool, Lancashire, stands out for its modern design inspired by the iconic Blackpool Pleasure Beach rollercoaster, complete with a theme park aesthetic and ocean views.
In addition to its standalone pubs, Wetherspoon has also expanded into hotels, offering 56 locations with accommodations. Jolly’s Hotel in Broughty Ferry, near Dundee, is a particular favorite of Thomson’s, featuring red booths, armchairs, and a beer garden close to the River Tay. The chain’s ability to blend history with modern convenience has made it a go-to for travelers and locals alike. As Dobson and Thomson’s journeys show, Wetherspoon pubs are more than just places to eat and drink—they are gateways to history, architecture, and community, offering something special for everyone who walks through their doors.
