Elephant and Castle: A Tale of Two Pubs and a Curious Name

The name "Elephant and Castle" has long intrigued patrons and passersby in both London and Dublin. This peculiar moniker, adorning pubs in two of Europe's most vibrant capitals, has a rich history and several theories surrounding its origin. Let's delve into the story behind this unique name and compare the pubs that bear it.

The Origin of the Elephant and Castle Name

The name "Elephant and Castle" has been the subject of much speculation over the years. While several theories exist, the most credible explanation lies in medieval heraldry:

1. The Cutlers' Company Connection: The name is believed to derive from the crest of the Worshipful Company of Cutlers, a medieval guild of craftsmen who made swords and knives. Their crest, granted in 1622, features an elephant carrying a castle on its back.
2. Symbolism: The elephant's tusks symbolized the ivory used for knife handles, while the castle represented the scale and strength of the guild.
3. Early Pub Signs: As literacy rates were low in medieval times, pub signs often used images from heraldry. The Cutlers' crest likely became a popular choice for pubs, eventually giving rise to the Elephant and Castle name.

Elephant and Castle in London

The London Elephant and Castle is not just a pub but an entire area in the city's south:

 

• Location: The original pub was located at a major road junction in Southwark.
• History: A coaching inn by this name existed here as early as 1765.
• Modern Day: While the original pub is gone, the name lives on in the Elephant and Castle shopping center and Underground station.

Elephant and Castle in Dublin

Dublin's Elephant and Castle offers a different experience:

 

• Location: Temple Bar, Dublin's cultural quarter

• Established: 1989
• Known for: American-style cuisine, particularly their chicken wings
• Atmosphere: Casual dining with a lively, modern ambiance

Comparing the Two Pubs

While both share the same name, the London and Dublin Elephant and Castles differ significantly:

1. Age: London's pub (now defunct) dated back centuries, while Dublin's is a modern establishment.
2. Style: London's was a traditional British pub, whereas Dublin's is more of an American-style restaurant.
3. Cultural Significance: In London, it's a part of the city's history and geography. In Dublin, it's known more for its food than its historical connections.

Other Elephant and Castle Examples Worldwide

The name has traveled beyond the British Isles:

1. North America: A chain of British-style pubs called Elephant & Castle operates in several U.S. and Canadian cities.
2. Australia: An Elephant and Castle Hotel exists in Adelaide, South Australia.
3. New Zealand: Wellington boasts its own Elephant and Castle pub.

The Enduring Appeal of a Curious Name

The persistence of the Elephant and Castle name across different countries and centuries speaks to its unique appeal. Whether it's the intriguing imagery, the historical connections, or simply the memorable nature of the name, Elephant and Castle continues to capture the imagination of pub-goers worldwide.

From its origins in medieval London to its modern incarnations in Dublin and beyond, the Elephant and Castle name remains a fascinating piece of pub lore. Whether you're enjoying wings in Dublin or exploring the London neighborhood, the Elephant and Castle offers a slice of history along with your pint.

Elephant and Castle
Area of South London, England

 

Location
In the London Borough of Southwark, part of South London, England.

 

Historical significance
Name derived from a local coaching inn.

 

Connectivity
Major traffic junction connected by Elephant and Castle road; part of the London Inner Ring Road and London congestion charge zone.