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Whether it’s down to history or just a quirk landlord, some pubs have the most extraordinary names – it’s worth a visit to see if they live up to their unconventional expectations!
The oldest pub names were created in a world where most people couldn’t read or write, so they typically featured animals or elements that could be depicted on a pub sign – such as a red lion, fox and hounds or lamb and flag. Thanks to near-universal literacy that requirement is, of course, no longer so necessary, liberating the nation’s hostel-keepers to come up with some truly unusual names.
Some of our favourites are listed below, and include the Case Is Altered (for paranoids everywhere), the Jolly Taxpayer (not too many of these around), the Nobody Inn (the punchline to a joke, surely) and the Skiving Scholar (which is probably always crowded, if our recollection of college is anything to go by).
But the winner – by a whisker – has to be My Fathers Moustache in North Holme, Lincs. We’re not sure if it’s in memory of a particularly fine nose beard (presumably a handlebar?) or a permanent Movember tribute, but it’s the kind of pub name that, once heard, is unlikely to be forgotten.
Landlords of Britain, we salute your originality!
Hampton Bishop, Hereford, HR1
A country pub situated only just outside Hereford in a beautiful location on the river Wye. Good range of beers and ciders; with a high quality food offer.
Barngates, Ambleside, LA22
Set high above Ambleside, commanding dramatic views of the Lake District fells, the Duck stands at a crossroads, a traditional Lakeland dwelling, reflecting the simplicity, beauty and longevity of its natural environment. From these same fells, we draw no
Baffins, Portsmouth, PO3
Hidden away in a residential area and therefore making it one of Portsmouth's least-known pubs, this former Brickwood's house is very much a locals' local. Now a genuine free house, the pub still retains its original public bar and smaller lounge.
Ballochmyle, Mauchline, KA5
London SE15
Welcome to The Pyrotechnists Arms, a traditional pub serving the best in home cooked food, drinks, offering live music sports a comedy club,beer gardens
Earl Sterndale, Buxton, SK17
Old-fashioned unchanging country local in lovely Peak District countryside; simple beamed interior with plain furniture on quarry tiles, china ornaments and coal fire
Blackbrook, Newcastle, ST5
York, North Yorkshire, YO1
Since opening our doors in May 1996, all at York Brewery have poured their heart and soul into brewing excellent, handcrafted ales enjoyed by drinkers far and wide.
London EC3R
A jewel in the crown of Tower Hill pubs, The Hung, Drawn & Quartered serves up freshly-prepared pub food and fine ales just a sceptre’s throw from the Tower of London. Lighter and brighter since its recent refurbishment, it's the ideal spot to reflect on
Doddiscombsleigh, Exeter, EX6
Good Hotel Guide Inn of the Year 2017! The NoBody Inn is a 17th century inn full of charm and character where a warm welcome is guaranteed. We offer the freshest local produce and have accommodation for those looking to get away from it all