Tom Holland's Father Blames UK Government for Pub Closures

Dominic Holland, father of actor Tom Holland, has voiced concerns over the state of the British pub industry, attributing closures to government policies and regulations.

Dominic Holland stated that two pubs close daily in the UK due to what he described as "hapless politicians, most of whom have never run a business." He pointed to taxes and regulations that make alcohol significantly more expensive in pubs compared to supermarkets.

This commentary comes as Holland's own favorite pub, The Cocoanut in Kingston-Upon-Thames, has seen a surge in customers after his son recommended it in a media interview. Tom Holland described the establishment as a Thai restaurant where patrons can bring their dogs and that he enjoys visiting for dinner.

The recommendation, however, has led to the pub becoming so crowded that Dominic Holland found himself "shivering" in the garden while trying to secure a table. He expressed mixed feelings, noting that while he was pleased about the increase in business, he lamented that the pub's newfound popularity had come at the expense of his own regular access.

He contrasted his son's ability to visit the pub with his own experience, observing that Tom and his partner Zendaya are often able to dine without being bothered by other patrons. "I hope that it's newfound popularity continues, and that its relaxed atmosphere continues. Part of it's charm is that no one bothers them," he wrote on his Substack blog.

Dominic Holland acknowledged the challenges faced by publicans, emphasizing that he is "excited that Tom's stardust can help draw local business, though I might draw the line when it means I can't get in myself."

Tom Holland first mentioned The Cocoanut in a joint interview with Matt Damon for The New York Times. He described it as a family favorite, run by a woman named Wally. The actor also shared that people often let their dogs off-leash there.

In addition to his concerns about the pub industry, Dominic Holland has previously discussed his son's engagement to actress Zendaya. He drew parallels between Tom's planned proposal and his own proposal to Tom's mother, Nikki, 30 years prior. Dominic Holland noted that while his son meticulously planned his proposal, his own was less organized, lacking even a ring at the time.