Red Lion remains the most popular pub name in the UK

Over the past two years the number of pubs named the Red Lion has increased by 10.4%, from 468 in 2023 to 517 in 2025.

Many historians trace the name back to James I, who ordered the Red Lion of Scotland to be displayed on public buildings, including pubs, when he ascended the English throne in 1603.

Resurgence

Meanwhile the number of pubs called the Royal Oak has risen by 9%, up from 433 in 2023 to 472, analysis of UK phonebook data by small business comparison site Bionic showed.

The Crown/Crown Inn was the third most popular pub name, increasing by 7.7% with new pubs, boasting 446 active sites in the UK.

The King’s Arms also saw a resurgence, likely boosted by the King’s coronation, while pubs named after Prince George also climbed the ranks.

Names like the New Inn also remained common, but their popularity slipped as desire for Airbnbs, boutique hotels, and modern pubs rises, offering alternatives to traditional ‘inns’.

Fierce competition

As pubs continue to struggle in the face of rising costs and changing consumer habits, with eight pubs a week estimated to have been lost in the first six months of 2025 alone, Bionic small business editor Laura Court-Jones called for more support for the sector.

She said: “Rising costs, changing habits, and fierce competition are hitting pub owners hard.

“Higher taxes, business rates, and every day running costs are squeezing independents, while shifts in consumer behaviour, from drinking less alcohol to favouring big chain food-and-drink venues, are drawing trade away from traditional high street locals.

“Whether it’s a pint in the garden, a hearty meal with friends, or even just stopping by for a quick chat, every visit helps keep these vital community hubs alive.”

Credit: Bionic