The Best of British Pub Names
Our pubs are known around the world for their weird and wonderful names that ooze quirkiness in a fashion that could only ever be considered acceptable in our small but mighty land.
Although many seem to be a little too "out there" to be found in other areas of the country, there is a small army of pubs that share the same magnificent monikers. For our small island holds a lot of history which can be found in the most unlikely of places, including your much-loved pub. No, we don't mean that your local was built on the grounds of a battlefield or that it may be known to be home to some ghostly residents that are not ready to leave (like these haunted Liverpool pubs) but much of our country's history can simply be found in the names of our pubs.
Here is our list of the best of British pub names, perhaps you can spot a deal or two from your nearest pub?
The Red Lion
The lion itself has been a part of the Royal Coat of Arms for thousands of years. It is said to symbolise strength and courage, which is a huge part of the British identity.
Rather unsurprisingly, "The Red Lion" is Britain's most popular pub name, despite the fact that most British residents are more likely to see a goose roaming around outside a pub rather than a lion (most commonly found in Africa) but perhaps geese don't have the same qualities as lions do...
Fancy visiting all 632 "The Red Lion" pubs? Take inspiration from one very British lady who spent four years travelling the country to visit each and every one of them. If you want a spoiler, her favourite one is in Kent.
The Ship
Considering Britain's island location, there is little wonder why one of the country's most popular pub names is The Ship. The name can, however, also be linked to the country's religious ties with Christianity with the ship representing Noah's Ark.
If you are looking for a taste of what a traditional pub offers, be sure to visit the beautiful The Ship Inn in Rainhill, Merseyside. This is definitely a place to visit during the summer months, with it's beautiful beer garden and dog-friendly policy, what a wonderful place to meet and eat with friends!
The Crown Pub
Your local Crown pub may just be another one of the many pubs in your area. However, hundreds of years ago, landlords would call their pub 'The Crown' to show support for the royal family.
During the tempestuous years of the English Civil War, there was a huge divide between the royalists and the parliamentarians, who wanted the members of parliament to have an executive decision over the royal family's rules. Although eventually, the parliamentarians won with King Charles 1 being beheaded for treason against his own people, it was a very risky move for the public to actively show their support for the parliamentarians.
The Crown Pub Southport
If you are a fan of the traditional cosy British pubs, where you can cuddle up by the open fire, look no further than The Crown Pub in Birkdale.
This beautiful pub offers an authentic British menu, with delicious foods such as Posh Fish and Chips, Hunters Chicken and the pub's special Steak and Pale Ale Pie! On a Sunday, you can enjoy a special menu which has the best options for hungry guests, including the Trio of Roasts, offering freshly carved roast sirloin of beef, half roast chicken, roast loin of pork. Yummy!
They often have offers on of a weekend and they also give away free Prosecco for those who are celebrating their birthday! Look at their beautiful patio area, where you can enjoy a range of real cask ales under the warm summer skies.
The Railway
The Railway pub in Formby is one of the most popular pubs for locals in the area, with a weekly pub quiz and delicious menu that makes it an inviting place to spend the evening.
If you are not a resident of the local area, it's a fantastic place to visit with Formby Beach,
Red Squirrel Walk and Farmer Ted's Adventure Park all within a close driving distance. After your outdoorsy-day, make sure you stop by The Railway to enjoy its warm and welcoming atmosphere before you begin your journey home.
The pub's name is usually quite popular in cities, highlighting their connection to the rest of the country through dynamic railway lines. Formby is a popular location for people to live because of it's connecting links with Liverpool and Southport.
The Swan
Swans are often associated with royalty, perhaps because The Queen actually owns the majority of swans in the UK. This has been the law for hundreds of years and it is not set to change anytime soon.
Any unclaimed mute swan belongs to The Queen and each year, the Royal Swan Uppers take part in a ceremony on the River Thames called "Swan Upping". In this traditional ceremony, swans are collected by the Royal staff over a five day period in July. They are then all taken for a health check, weighed and measured before being identified and set free again.
Swans, although are beautifully serene creatures when swimming across a lake, are known to have a temper if they are disturbed at the wrong time. It is said that swans have the ability to break your arm, but not when you find yourself in a pub of the same name. So, if you ever find yourself being disturbed by a swan, head to the nearest Swan pub!
George and the Dragon
