In recent times we have seen some subtle tongue-in-cheek pub signs and chalkboards popping up around the country, but funnily enough, this isn’t a new trend. I have written out some of the signs that caught my eye while researching, that I hope you will like.
A signboard of a public house at Ale Nooke, Stalmine
“Cherry Dick, he does live here;
He sells a pot of wholesome beer;
His beer is good, his measure is just,
He is so poor he cannot trust.”
The Hive
Within this Hive we’re all alive;
Good Liquor makes us funny.
If you are dry step in and try
The flavour of our Honey.
This is the original verse under the sign of the “Hive”pub. The background of this verse makes it a little funnier as the publican’s name was Honey.
A Sign from publican John Frew
I John Frew, does live here;
I sells good porter, ale and beer;
To make my sign a little wider,
I lets you know I sell good cider.
No doubt Mr Frew, when writing the third line, had more regard to rhyme than to reason, but funny nonetheless.
On the sign from the Dragon pub
I am the Dragon; fear me not
If you have money to pay your shot;
When money’s scarce and credit bad,
That’s what makes the Dragon mad.
Duke of Cumberland
This sign had two rhymes, one on the front and one on the back of the swinging sign.
Stop Traveller, you are welcome, sit at your ease;
Pay what you call for, drink what you please.Stop Traveller; do not be in haste,
But call and of my liquor taste.
Garden Date Pub
This gate hangs well, and hinders none;
Refresh, and pay, and then pass on.
Don’t forget to share some of your favourite pub signs with us too!
To read other stories from the past, check out our other articles here
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