Bars and clubs will get 2 additional hours to serve their customers during the coronation weekend

To celebrate the King’s Coronation, pubs, clubs, and bars across England and Wales will be allowed to stay open for an additional two hours between Friday, May 5 and Sunday, May 7. The move, which extends licensing hours from the normal 11pm to 1am, was backed by a leading body in the hospitality sector as well as 77% of the public who took part in a month-long consultation.

Home Secretary Suella Braverman will lay the order before Parliament on Monday to give permission for premises to stay open longer to mark occasions of exceptional significance. Section 172 of the Licensing Act 2003 allows her to do so.

Ms. Braverman said that His Majesty The King’s Coronation would be a momentous occasion deserving of special celebration. “That is why I am extending the licensing hours over this historic Coronation weekend,” she added. “Up and down the country, people can enjoy an extra pint or two in the evening while families and friends can come together to wish His Majesty The King a long and happy reign.”

Emma McClarkin OBE, CEO of the British Beer and Pub Association, said that the announcement of extended opening hours was a timely boost for the pub industry. “In the midst of an acutely challenging period, I am sure our pubs will look to mark this joyous occasion by hosting special events and parties as part of national celebrations,” she said. “It is sure to be a time for community and celebration, and the great British pub is always right at the heart of both, so I would encourage everyone to head down to their local and raise a toast to His Majesty during the Coronation weekend.”