Prince William’s vocal endorsement of pubs at a challenging time for the industry has made a “pivotal” impact, a royal commentator has claimed.

The sector currently faces significant pressures, with Chancellor Rachel Reeves announcing on Tuesday that pubs will receive 15 per cent relief on their business rates from April.

Sir Mel Stride criticised the measure in the Commons as a “partial U-turn” that was “far too little and far too late.”

Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams described the impact of the heir to the throne publicly championing British pubs as “pivotal.”

He told the Mail the phenomenon has helped “support local pubs and enhance the spirit of community” whilst “boosting sales at a crucial time for these invaluable establishments.”

The future king’s appearance alongside Schitt’s Creek actor Eugene Levy at Windsor’s Two Brewers pub in October has generated what observers are calling “The William Effect.”

A plaque now commemorates the spot where William and Levy sat, recording their visit on February 4, 2025 for the filming of Apple TV’s The Reluctant Traveller.

Royal enthusiasts have since descended on the establishment, eager to secure a seat at what has become known as the “royal table” or “King’s corner.”

Pub owner Stuart O’Brien told Hello! that William’s recent visit proved “really good for business,” with takings soaring following the royal appearance.

The Prince of Wales recently voiced his passionate backing for British pubs during a challenging period for the industry, declaring them “the heart of the community” while enjoying a half pint of cider at The Goth pub in Scotland alongside his wife, Catherine.

“I absolutely love pubs,” the 43-year-old heir to the throne told fellow drinkers. “I want to help pubs. This is the best place to come and get to know each other.”

William added: “I grew up in pubs, I absolutely love pubs.”

The heir apparent has frequented numerous establishments across Britain, surprising staff and customers alike.

During a Birmingham engagement last January, he popped into a local Wetherspoons, where he purchased a round of beers for eight fellow Aston Villa supporters whilst nursing a pint of Bulmers cider for approximately 30 minutes.

In November, the prince made an unexpected appearance at the Walnut Tree Inn in Mere, arriving with a reservation for nine people.

Owner William Friend-James revealed that the royal visitor ordered a homemade burger with chips and a lemonade, telling the Mail: “It was a great pleasure to host him.”

The prince’s affection for pub culture extends back several years, with notable visits including a March 2024 trip to The Turf in Wrexham alongside Hollywood star Rob McElhenney to mark St David’s Day.

Attempting to pour a pint at the venue adjacent to Wrexham AFC, William quipped: “Still got a horrible head on it, but there you go. This is why I don’t work behind the bar.”

With Ryan Reynolds absent due to Deadpool filming commitments, the prince joked: “Because Ryan’s not here, you can tell him I think Hugh Jackman is funnier.”

In 2023, William and Catherine travelled by tube to Soho’s historic Dog and Duck pub, where he poured the inaugural pint of Kingmaker ale ahead of the Coronation.

Despite being nicknamed “One Pint Willy” by Mike Tindall for not being “the best of drinkers,” the prince continues to champion the traditional British local.

Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter