Hackney Pub Bans Children After Supervision Issues

A popular pub in east London's Hackney neighborhood has implemented a strict adults-only policy, barring children of all ages from the premises following repeated disruptions caused by inadequate parental supervision.

The Kenton, a drinks-focused venue that stopped serving food in 2022 to emphasize a relaxed atmosphere and sports viewing, announced the change over the weekend. Owner Egil Johansen, who has managed the pub for 17 years, described the decision as necessary to ensure safety and consistency for staff and patrons. Previously, the pub had allowed children until 5 p.m., a curfew in place since last year as part of its licensing conditions. In November, additional signage was added both in the venue and on its online booking system to remind parents to supervise their children closely. Despite these measures, issues persisted, leading to the full ban.

Johansen stressed that the policy targets not the children themselves but the challenges of managing their behavior in a crowded space without sufficient oversight from adults. "Kids will be kids," he said, "but it's all down to the parents." He recounted incidents including groups of children running wildly after events,...