The Most Popular Pub Names in England: A Comprehensive Guide

Have you ever wondered about the most commonly found pub names in England? This article delves into the popular choices, their meanings, and fascinating historical backgrounds.

Introduction to Pub Nomenclature in England

Pubs in England, long a cornerstone of community life and social interaction, often bear intriguing and sometimes peculiar names. One of the least common names is "The Green Dragon," inspired by the last dragon living in England, although this fascinating name is still yet to be found in Scotland, where similarly mythical names like "The Blue Unicorn" are missing in the pub landscape.

The Red Lion: A Historical Timeline

The Red Lion is perhaps the most recurrent and recognizable name, steeped in rich history. During the reign of King James I of England and James VI of Scotland (1603), King James decreed that the heraldic red lion of Scotland should be displayed on all important buildings, including pubs. This royal decree has contributed to the enduring popularity of The Red Lion name.

Other Top Pub Names in England

Exploring the data compiled by Pubs Galore, one can infer the most common pub names in the United Kingdom, which primarily come from England. According to their pub names statistics, The Red Lion leads the pack with an impressive 547 mentions. Other popular names include:

The Crown Royal Oak White Hart The Swan The Plough The Bell Rose Crown The Queen's Head The Railway Tavern

Another resource, Historic UK, reports on the importance of The Red Lion during the reign of James I and VI, confirming its historical significance. Additional popular pubs include:

The Crown (491) Royal Oak (426) White Hart (313) The Plough (293) The Swan (286) The Railway Tavern (285) White Horse (281) Kings Arms (243) The Ship (242)

The Full List of Top 25 Pub Names in England

For a comprehensive list, compiled by Pubs Galore, the most common names of open pubs in England are:

The Red Lion The Crown Royal Oak The Plough The Swan Rose Crown The Bell The White Hart The Queen's Head The White Horse The New Inn The King's Arms The King's Head The Wheatsheaf The Ship The Rising Sun The Black Horse The Fox and Hounds The Prince of Wales Chequers The Coach and Horses The Cross Keys The White Swan The George and Dragon The Nag's Head

Conclusion: The Evolution of Pub Names in England

From mythological creatures to royal symbolism, English pubs showcase the rich stories and historical context of the British monarchy and culture. Whether you're exploring the countryside or enjoying a pint in a city center, these names evoke a sense of familiarity and nostalgia, making every visit to a popular English pub an exciting journey through history.

References

Pubs Galore, Historic UK