Pub sparks debate with strict 'no phones' policy - alongside bizarre rule list

A British pub has sparked a debate online after a punter shared a picture of their rather strict list of banned items, including mobile phones.

Posting a picture on Reddit, one user shared a coaster which instructed phones weren't allowed, writing: "No phones allowed at this British pub I visited."

Phones were just the tip of the iceberg, though, as visitors also weren't allowed "iPads, Kindles, tablets, laptops and other transmission or reception devices". Other than phones... fair enough, right?

But wait... the rules – from the Samuel Smith's chain pub – instructed: "Let's just talk. Phones are not allowed to be used in this pub.

"The ban includes sending or receiving texts, taking or viewing photographs, emailing, using games, apps, web browsing or Google, Facebook or other social media, Messenger etc, etc.

"We want our traditional pub to be a haven for social conversation."

No pictures? No texting? Okay, this is becoming controversial.

"Our pubs are havens from the digital world – there are no TVs or background music," the pub explains online.

The pub completely banned phones - and had a bunch of other rules (Credit: Unsplash)

"The use of mobile phones, laptops and other tech is not allowed in our pubs.

"Friendly pub conversation is encouraged (no swearing!) together with the responsible enjoyment of our beers."

It's safe to say the reaction to the move was...colourful, over on Reddit.

Someone joked: "Somebody's just received a text message! And nobody's leaving till we find out what c*** did it".

Another wrote: "I’d pass. I understand why they do it but I can’t even send a text? No thanks."

The pub banned taking pictures and even receiving texts (Credit: Unsplash)

"If they want a 1970s style experience, they can charge 1970s prices ammarite??? (sic)," wrote a third.

"This gives old man yelling at cloud vibes, just let people exist without trying to enforce your worldview on them for f*cks sake," said someone else.

This isn't the first time Samuel Smith's have stoked controversy.

Previously, one of their pubs in Yorkshire banned kids, swearing and even muddy boots, because they were trying to remain 'traditional'.

The pub want to stay 'traditional' and have people focus on the beer (Credit: Pexels)

The Boot and Shoe Inn in Tockwith, hit the internet after one Twitter user, Leon Foster, wrote: “The full range of Sam Smiths bans on offer here - appears children are now banned ‘temporarily’.”

“For the time being children will only be allowed in the beer gardens. They must stay at your table and not running around," a sign on the pub window read.

"They cannot come inside the pub and must be accompanied by an adult when they go to the toilet. All children have to be off the premises by 8pm. We are very sorry for the inconvenience caused."

“What part of ‘hospitality’ do they not understand?," said one person at the time, echoing the sentiments of many.

However, others did understand the decision, and even supported it.

Whatever you think about the pub's policies, they certainly know how to get people talking!

Featured image: Unplash