In 1393, King Richard II passed an Act making it compulsory for pubs and inns to have a sign in order to identify them to the official Ale Taster. The legislation stated "Whosoever shall brew ale in the town with intention of selling it must hang out a sign, otherwise he shall forefeit his ale". Signs depict everything, from religion, battles to inventions, from sporting heroes to royalty and famous people.

An offer of entertainment inside, such as a pub called the Cock Inn or the Cock Pit would once have been a venue for cock fighting. Other entertainment, the Bear denotes bear baiting, the Dog & Duck hunting, the Bull & Dog bull baiting and the Bird in Hand, falconry. Often the predominant trade of the area would give the pub its name. The Golden Fleece is a reflection of the local wool trade. The Coopers’, Bricklayers’, Saddlers’ and Masons’ Arms are commonplace signs.

The purpose of this gallery is not to show perfect images (you would have to be 20 ft. tall to take them), but to show inn names and signs that reflect British life at that time.

Pub signs are collectively a unique record of Britain, Ireland and Scotland's history.