What's Inn a Name?

There are over 500 pubs that go by the name of the Red Lion, but did you ever think how these pubs got their name? Lions aren’t often part of our native wildlife; so why would someone name a pub after it? In this series we look at the meaning of pub names.

Pubs were traditionally named after their inn signs; which were brought to Britain by the Romans. Pubs, or tabernas as our Italian friends called them; would use a piece of greenery (relating to hops) tied to a pole. The sign was actually called an alestake or a bush, which suggests that The Bush Inn could be one of the oldest pub names out there. Sometimes a chequers board was used to show that in addition to a pint, a games of chess or draughts could be played there.

As time went on, the population increased, and so did the number of taverns and inns (unlike today!). As most of the population couldn’t read or write; businesses often used pictures to advertise their wares. Landlords would try to attract customers with the best signs, and name the pub after it. Then in 1393, King Richard II declared “whosoever shall brew ale [in London} with the intention of selling it must hang out a sign; otherwise he shall forfeit his ale”. Sounds like a great way to drink for free if you’re a King! 

So what of the Red Lion? It can be traced to a heraldic symbol back in the fourteenth century; belonging to John of Gaunt, Earl of Lancaster. Gaunt was the fourth son of Edward III and used his influence of the throne to claim large amounts of land; a Landlord in his own right. This made him England’s richest man; but it also made him very unpopular as he used his political power to increase taxation and introduce England’s first poll tax. His heraldic symbol was used to indicate his property or allegiance to his cause.   

 Some sources suggest that the Red Lion came from King James in his transition from James VI on the Scottish throne to James I when he became King of England and Ireland as well as ruling Scotland. In the early 17th century, James made a royal decree similar to King Richard II above, but this was to demonstrate those who were loyal to him since many people were not comfortable with the idea of one king ruling all sovereigns. The red lion was also James’s heraldic symbol and he asked that this was placed in all public buildings to show their allegiance to the throne.

 So there you go. Two possible theories out there, each linked to royalty. If there’s a third one that you know about, do get in touch.

 If you are interested in pub history, you may be interested in joining the Inn Sign Society. The group brings together those who have a common interest in pub signs; and has established written and pictorial archives for its members. For more information, visit www.innsignsociety.com