A Legacy of Tradition and Controversy
Humphrey Smith, a figure known for his strict rules and unwavering commitment to tradition, has passed away at the age of 81. As the former chairman of Samuel Smith's Old Brewery, he was one of the most controversial figures in the British pub industry. His approach to running pubs was both admired and criticized, making him a polarizing personality in the world of hospitality.
The Guardian of the Traditional Pub
To many, Smith was a determined guardian of the traditional public house. He sought to protect historic interiors and the lost art of conversation from the encroachment of modern technology like smartphones and fruit machines. Under his leadership, Samuel Smith's Old Brewery grew into one of Britain’s most distinctive pub companies, operating over 200 establishments across the country.
Many of these pubs occupy handsome historic buildings, retaining traditional features such as open fires, wooden panelling, and Victorian fittings. However, it was not just the architecture that set Smith’s pubs apart—it was the list of things he refused to tolerate that made them famous.
Strict Rules and Unconventional Policies
Smartphones, laptops, televisions, music, and fruit machines were all strictly prohibited. Dogs, muddy boots, and children were also not welcome in many premises. Swearing could lead to drinkers being thrown out, and landlords could lose their jobs if they failed to enforce Smith’s rules.
Smith was known for making unannounced visits to pubs to ensure that managers maintained his exacting standards. One of the most notorious incidents occurred in 2019 when he reportedly overheard a customer telling a joke containing a swear word at the Fox and Goose in Droitwich Spa. The pub’s landlords were subsequently dismissed.
At the Cow and Calf in Sheffield, manager Louise Brownhill and her husband Steve claimed they were fired after Smith discovered his preferred dessert was not in stock. Mrs. Brownhill stated that the couple had been unable to stock the dessert because the brewery had not provided them with a freezer.
A Divisive Figure
Despite his formidable reputation, Smith was often seen walking through Tadcaster in tweed and wellington boots, sometimes carrying a worn towel as he made his way to the local swimming pool. He was not known for personal extravagance, giving up driving a modest Austin Allegro instead of a Ferrari or Rolls-Royce.
In later life, he traveled by public bus and occasionally appeared unexpectedly at distant pubs with a portfolio tucked under his arm. His habitual lunchtime swim took him past many of the empty shops, boarded-up houses, and closed pubs that made him a divisive figure in his home town.
Control Over Tadcaster
Smith was reported to control as much as 70% of Tadcaster’s commercial property through the brewery and associated interests. Locals described him as the town’s “laird” and a “Dickensian figure” who inspired fierce loyalty and equally fierce resentment.
Critics accused him of allowing properties to deteriorate while refusing to let large chains occupy his buildings. They argued that his control over land and commercial premises prevented new homes, restaurants, and businesses from coming to the town.
Controversial Decisions
Smith’s relationship with Tadcaster came under intense scrutiny after the historic bridge over the River Wharfe collapsed during devastating floods in 2015. Residents were forced to make a lengthy diversion between the two halves of the town.
Smith reportedly refused to allow brewery-owned land to be used for a temporary footbridge unless he was given input into the permanent replacement. A temporary crossing was eventually erected on council-owned land, while the road bridge was later rebuilt following intervention by then-prime minister David Cameron.
A Lasting Impact
Cllr Richard Sweeting, the town mayor, said: "It's the end of an era. Mr. Smith has been part of Tadcaster for many years and has done a lot for this town. But he wasn't one for publicity. He would like to do things behind the scenes."
He added, "I have known him all my life and his mother. He has done a lot for the church and the community. To me, he's just Mr. Smith. They do a lot of unseen things."
Tadcaster is known for its three breweries. John Smith's was set up by members of the same Smith family in the 19th century, though it has long been separate from Sam Smith's and now part of Heineken. Molson Coors also has a plant in the town, where 'Spanish' beer Madri is brewed.
Companies House records show Smith resigned as a director of Samuel Smith Old Brewery on June 17, 2026. News of his death was first reported by York Press, which said it had received a verbal confirmation of his passing over the phone from the notoriously media-averse brewery.
The British Pubs Facebook site posted: "An absolute titan of the British brewing world has passed away. Humphrey Smith, the famously traditionalist and eccentric owner of Yorkshire's Samuel Smith's Brewery, has died." The post continued: "Love him or hate him for his strict rules - banning smartphones, tablets, music, and even swearing - he ran his pubs entirely his own way to preserve the classic, tech-free British Pubs experience."
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