The bizarre 150-year pub rule that could cost you £200 this Christmas

Pubgoers have been warned of this one rule that could cost them £200 and get them kicked out of their local boozer this Christmas.

Despite the rule being 150 years old, many people don’t actually know about it, which is most likely because it is rarely enforced.

Regardless of that, the law still applies today and should be known about.

Excessive drinking in any public establishment is considered a  fineable offence, and if you are drunk in a pub, there is a chance you could be charged a £200 fine.

Section 12 of the Licensing Act 1872 reads: “Every person found drunk on any licensed premises shall be liable to a penalty.”

While it may sound ridiculous, the law is there more to prevent disorderly behaviour that can sometimes come with drunkenness. 

This is where you will see police sometimes get involved if a scenario happens where someone is getting aggressive, rude or not able to control themselves after drinking too much alcohol. 

The rule was put in place to encourage moderate drinking, so although it may be difficult, try not to let the festivities get in the way and cause you trouble.

But of course, the rule doesn’t just apply to pubs and those who plan to go on Christmas.

The rule applies to venues and other public spaces, including public transport. Transport for London services strictly prohibits alcohol from being consumed on its services. 

It’s not only drinkers who could be handed a fine. The Licensing Act 2003 says that bartenders who serve alcohol to anybody who is intoxicated will also be hit with the punishment.

Landlords and hospitality staff could be faced with a Fixed Penalty Notice of £90 issued by police. Not only that but if the penalty ends up going to court, it could rise to a whopping £1,000. 

Fortunately, the fines are rarely issued, probably because people tend to follow the rules and remember the Christmas season is already as expensive as it is.