Kensington pub rebrands as Trump Arms with Charlie Kirk debate room
A West London pub has renamed itself the Trump Arms for the duration of Donald Trump’s state visit. The landlord has also unveiled a permanent room dedicated to the late US conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Biddy Mulligan’s, an Irish-themed pub near Olympia, has temporarily taken on the Trump Arms name, a change last seen during Trump’s first state visit in 2019. A banner with the new name has been hoisted onto the roof and, according to landlord Damien Smyth, will remain until the president departs Britain, as reported by the Evening Standard.
The rebrand coincides with Trump’s second state visit. Although the President is not expected to appear in London, his itinerary includes Windsor Castle and Chequers.
Remembering Charlie Kirk
The most striking alteration is inside the pub, where the former entertainment lounge has been converted into what is now called the Charlie Kirk debate room. The dedication honours the 31-year-old American activist who co-founded Turning Point USA and was shot dead at a university event in Utah last week.
Utah authorities have charged a 22-year-old man, Tyler Robinson, with Kirk’s murder. President Trump condemned the killing as a “heinous assassination” and urged Americans to recommit to the values of free speech and the rule of law, as reported by official White House statements.
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Landlord’s message
Smyth said he was horrified that “a decent family man like Charlie could be slaughtered during a peaceful, open public debate” and insisted the pub must send a clear message against political violence, according to the Standard. He added that “President Trump has been democratically elected not once, but twice and deserves respect for all his achievements in making America great again”.
A pub spokesperson said the debate room will remain as a permanent fixture and will be used for discussions and guest events.
Reactions in and outside the pub
Reaction from within the pub has been supportive. One regular described Trump’s record as reversing America’s decline and suggested the British look “with envy at such strong leadership”, as per the Standard.
Outside the pub, the broader reception is less sympathetic. Large demonstrations have been held across London in opposition to Trump’s visit.
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