Common Pub Names in England

Pubs have long been revered as the communal living room of towns and villages, places where stories are woven into the very wood of the bar. What's in a name? Quite a lot, it appears, when it comes to these bastions of community and camaraderie. The study conducted on the commonality of pub names across England highlights a striking pattern of cultural and historical values reflecting through their names.

Leading the pack is "The Red Lion" a name that graces 447 establishments when combining its variations. This name is not merely a choice but a narrative, a nod to the heraldic symbol associated with strength and valor, often found in the royal standards of England. Following closely are "The Crown" and "The Royal Oak" with 256 and 364 mentions respectively, illustrating the publics fascination with monarchy and history. The oak a symbol of endurance and strength and the crown, a symbol of authority, resonate deeply within the English psyche, manifesting prominently in the places that foster community discussions.

Agriculture's imprint on pub names is unmistakable with names like "The Plough" and "The Wheatsheaf" signaling the importance of farming in England's cultural heritage. The presence of 184 establishments named "The Plough" and 158 "The Wheatsheaf" underscores this connection, celebrating the pastoral and agrarian roots that many of these communities were built upon.

Equally reflective of England's natural beauty are names like "The Swan" and "The White Hart," totaling 163 and 234 occurrences respectively. These names not only illustrate an appreciation for wildlife but also for the mythology and heraldry of England. The swan is often associated with royalty and the white hart was a symbol used by Richard II, both adding a layer of historical richness to the pub's identity.

Not to be overlooked are the nods to hospitality itself, with names like "The New Inn" appearing 203 times. Such names evoke a sense of welcoming new travelers and locals alike, promising warmth and new stories.

The table below shows the 50 most common pub names in England.