If you’re from across the pond, many of the colloquialisms we Brits use must sound pretty odd. Of course, the UK has a long and varied history, and our heritage has left us with many weird and wonderful ways to express ourselves.
Nowhere is this more apparent than in the names of our pubs and bars. From ‘The Goat and Tricycle’ to ‘The Snooty Fox’ and the ‘Three-Legged Mare’, we’re suckers for a great moniker.
Traditionally, the names of pubs capture something unique or historic about the place they’re based in. However, in recent years, savvy owners have started using peculiar names to garner interest in their business. The number of quirky, off-beat pubs and bars in London has risen dramatically, making for some of the coolest names in the world.
Let’s check out some of the weirdest pub and bar names in London.
The Mayor of Scardy Cat Town
One of the most famous nightlife places in London, this little speakeasy is probably the worst-kept secret in London and one of several hidden bars – that aren’t very well hidden. None of that matters when you’re scrambling through a secret door hidden behind a fridge. A visit to TMSCT will make you giggle – guaranteed. And the name? Well, it’s got to be one of the coolest.
Ain’t Nuthin’ But
I wish I had a penny for every time I’ve told a friend “I’m heading out to ain’t nothing but.” and got the reply “…but, what?”. This astonishing music pub makes the list for its most extra unwieldy name, which is short for ‘Ain’t nothin’ but the blues’.
Callooh Callay
Most people aren’t sure how to pronounce this one, but if you know your literature, I’m sure you’ll recognize it. Callooh Callay is an exclamation of joy from Lewis Carol’s classic nonsense poem Jabberwocky, the perfect phrase to describe this unique cocktail venue. The bar is renowned for its unusual menus, expertly crafted cocktails, and secret ‘Palace of Humbug’ room. We’ll let you see if you can find it.
Evans and Peel Detective Agency
Yup. Seeing this one on Google Maps one could be excused for mistaking this noir-themed cocktail bar for an actual detective agency. Well, maybe if it was 1936. But then, we wouldn’t have Google Maps. Hmmm…
WC
Named after a toilet, this wine bar off Clapham Common is as classy as it gets. In a devilish twist, the W and C stand for Wine and Charcuterie – a clever play on the fact that this underground venue was once a public toilet. Today, it serves beautiful food in a refined yet relaxed atmosphere.
That’s our top weirdest bar and pub names in London! If you think you have a stranger pub or bar name, let us know in the comments. To get an even closer look at some of London’s best pubs, check out our Gin Distillery tour.
