So, picture this: you’re ambling down the cobbled streets of a quaint English village, the aroma of fish and chips wafting through the air, when suddenly, you spot a pub with a name that makes you do a double-take. You’ve probably had this experience too, right? The UK is brimming with quirky pub names that tickle the fancy and bring a smile to your face. I mean, who wouldn’t want to pop into “The Cat and Custard Pot” or “The Drunken Duck”? Let’s explore some of the most unusual pub names and see what stories they have up their sleeves (or should I say pints?).
Let’s start our adventure at “The Cat and Custard Pot” in the beautiful village of Blagdon, Somerset. You might wonder, what on earth do cats and custard pots have to do with each other? Well, legend has it that the name originated from a rather amusing local tale involving a cat that stole custard. It’s the kind of story that makes you chuckle while you sip on your pint of cider—something local, of course!
Now, I did have a minor mishap when I visited. Picture me, confidently ordering a “pint of local” and getting handed a reluctant-looking custard ale. I should’ve known from the name! Lesson learnt: always ask before you assume. But hey, at least I had a good story to share!
Next up is “The Drunken Duck” in the Lake District. Doesn’t that just sound like a pub where you’d want to settle in by a fire with friends? The name’s origins are a bit blurry, much like the hangovers some of us have had there! One theory suggests that it comes from the local wild ducks that waddle about after a few too many breadcrumbs from the pub’s patrons.
I popped in with a couple of mates after a long hike. We reviewed the menu, and OH BOY, the sticky toffee pudding! I think I might have licked the bowl. Not a proud moment, I admit, but can you really blame me? Between the pub quiz nights and the occasional live music, this corner of Cumbria just has that perfect vibe.
Feeling cheeky? How about “The Old Scroat”? This charming little place is tucked away in Middleton-in-Teesdale. The term “scroat” reportedly comes from a local dialect, meaning a bit of a rascal or a rogue. Reminds me of those times when my friends insisted it was a good idea to cycle home after a night out—you know, having a scroat of a bit of fun.
Inside, the decor is rustic, with wood beams and a fire crackling away. I once dared to challenge the dart champion at the pub—big mistake! Let’s just say my aim was less than stellar, and I ended up losing not only the game but probably my dignity too.
“The Horse and Groom” pops up in more than one locale around the UK, and each tells a different tale. Some say it refers back to the days when stable hands and groomsmen would gather for a pint after a long day at the stables. Others argue that it’s about the bond between horse and rider. Either way, it’s a name steeped in history and, let’s be honest, a little nostalgia.
There’s one in Kent that I had the pleasure of visiting during a village fête. The locals were friendly, and the homemade pies were ridiculously good—seriously, I can still taste that lamb and mint number! It’s almost like these pub names conjure up an immediate sense of community. You walk in and feel at home.
And how could we skip over “The Boringdon Arms” in Plymouth? The name sounds like an ironic take, doesn’t it? The true origin, however, is tied back to the nearby Boringdon Hall, a 16th-century building rumoured to be haunted. There’s nothing boring about ghosts, am I right?
When I visited, the barman regaled me with tales of spooky occurrences—including a pint glass mysteriously shattering while no one was nearby. I must admit, I was checking my shoulder a wee bit while enjoying the local ale. A good laugh was had, although a little part of me was wondering if I’d have to play ghost detective that night. Spoiler alert: I didn’t see any ghosts, but I did see my mates trying to fit into the old phone booth outside.
You have to love “The Dog and Gun,” a classic name if there ever was one! It’s said to be one of the oldest pubs in Keswick, and it retains a welcoming vibe that pulls you in. Some say it refers to the hunting dogs used by locals, while others claim it stems from the pub’s previous owners who were passionate about hunting.
I swung by after a day of hiking, and I could feel the warmth as soon as I stepped in. There’s a brilliant little outdoor seating area where you can have a drink and enjoy the stunning views of the fells. The beer garden is dotted with dog owners and their pets. Who knew that dogs could be the ultimate wingmen? Talking to a cute dog owner is just a bonus!
Now, we can’t forget our Scottish pals, can we? The “Sheep Heid Inn” in Edinburgh is one of Scotland’s oldest pubs, and yes, it was named after a sheep’s head (no, I’m not joking!). It dates back to the 14th century and is a must-visit if you’re in the area. It’s the sort of place that feels like a warm hug after a long day of exploring.
I had the pleasure of visiting during a local event where they were showcasing traditional Scottish dishes. The haggis, neeps, and tatties didn’t scare me off (even after multiple bad haggis experiences in the past). I even tried my hand at throwing the caber—needless to say, my attempt was less than graceful. Splendid fun, though!
So, with all these intriguing and amusing pub names, it’s clear the UK is a treasure trove of oddly-named watering holes. Each one seems to carry its own stories, from local legends to personal escapades (like my unforeseeable failures at darts). It’s easy to see why these places attract not just locals but curious tourists like you and me, eager to share a pint over a hearty laugh.
Next time you find yourself out for a pint, take a moment to consider the name of the establishment you’re in. Who knows, you might uncover a full-on adventure just waiting to happen! What’s the most unusual pub name you’ve encountered? Share your anecdotes; I can’t wait to hear them! 🍻
