History of the British Pub Sign & Pub Names

The history of the pub sign in Britain is a fascinating journey that intertwines with the development of taverns, inns, and public houses throughout the centuries. While the precise origins are somewhat obscure, the tradition of pub signs is believed to have emerged during the Middle Ages and evolved over time into the iconic symbols we recognise today.

When the Romans invaded Britain in AD43 they introduced hot baths, straight roads and the first real pubs to Britain. In Rome, landlords of these pubs, known as 'taberbae' hung bunches of vine leaves outside as a simple sign but, upon reaching Britain, they had to improvise. They used any evergreen plant and it's still possible to find pubs called 'The Bush' throughout the country. Later, sheaves of wheat were used to signify a new batch of ale had been brewed, this lead to many of today's pubs still being called 'The Wheatsheaf'.

The newly built Roman roads such as Fosse Way and Ermine Street meant long distance travel was easier and troops moving around the country needed to be fed and watered. Roadside inns started to open along these routes so travelers could get refreshments and a bed for the night. Many modern roads still follow the route of these ancient highways and some of the roadside inns have been on the same site for centuries.

The pub sign is believed to have originated in medieval England when literacy rates were low, so images & symbols were used as a means of communication. Inns and taverns would hang distinctive signs outside their establishments to help illiterate travelers. These signs often depicted simple images or symbols related to the name of the establishment or its proprietor. For instance, an inn called "The Red Lion" might feature a sign with a depiction of a red lion.

The use of pub signs gained further prominence during the reign of King Richard II (1377-1399) when he issued an edict requiring all pubs and inns to hang a sign outside to identify themselves. This edict aimed to regulate the burgeoning number of drinking establishments and make them easily recognizable to travelers. Taverns without signs risked fines or closure, prompting proprietors to adhere to the royal decree.

Pub signs became more elaborate over time, often incorporating intricate designs and symbols that reflected the establishment's name, location, or the interests of the proprietor. For example, a pub located near a church might feature a sign depicting a religious figure, while an inn situated near a river could adopt a nautical theme. These signs not only served as a means of identification but also helped establish the identity and character of the establishment within the local community.

Throughout British history, significant events and cultural influences have shaped the design and symbolism of pub signs. For instance, during the English Civil War in the 17th century, many pub signs were removed or altered to avoid association with royalist or parliamentarian sympathies. Similarly, the rise of the British Empire led to the adoption of colonial-themed pub signs featuring exotic animals, landscapes, and motifs from distant lands.

The Industrial Revolution and the rapid urbanisation of Britain in the 18th and 19th centuries brought about changes in the pub trade and its signage. With the growth of cities and towns, competition among pubs increased, leading to more elaborate and eye-catching signs to attract customers. Many pubs began commissioning professional sign painters to create custom designs, resulting in a diverse array of artistic styles and imagery.

In the 20th century, as regulations governing signage and advertising became more stringent, many traditional pub signs were replaced with standardised designs or removed altogether. However, the nostalgia for Britain's pub culture and heritage led to efforts to preserve and restore historic pub signs. Today, while many pubs still display traditional signs, others have embraced modern materials and techniques, reflecting the evolving nature of the industry.

In summary, the origin of pub signs in Britain can be traced back to the medieval period when they served as essential markers for travelers and locals alike. Over the centuries, pub signs have evolved from simple symbols to intricate works of art, reflecting the history, culture, and identity of the communities they serve. Despite changes in technology and regulation, pub signs remain a cherished tradition and a distinctive feature of Britain's cultural landscape.