So, what exactly is a 'Crooked Billet'?

Our customers frequently ask us this question, and we’ve also had numerous answers offered.

On the record, this story is our favourite: In medieval times, taverns would hang examples of whatever crop was in season (for example, a bunch of grapes) to signify their purpose as an eating house to passing travellers. The most primitive sign was a single piece of wood, otherwise known as a 'billet', which simply meant that travellers were welcome. Thus, a tavern would become known as the place with the bent stick above its door, and travellers would be told:

"If thee travelled southwest from London towards Ye Olde Wimbledon Village, thou shalt come across an inn with a Crooked Billet above its door, and there ye shall be made most welcome before continuing thy journey onwards towards ASDA."

Or something like that.

What’s in a Name
Enter our competition!

Because the Billet’s name mystery has been such a popular topic around here, we’re inviting all of our visitors to participate in the fun. Please feel free to write your own interpretation of the name ‘Crooked Billet’, and how this pub came to be called such a thing. Fact or fiction, we don’t care at all- we’re just looking for detailed, creative or compelling entries! Each month we will select a submission to be published in our monthly email, ‘The Crooked Commoner Community’ as well as get some prizes to enjoy in The Bent Stick, I mean The Crooked Billet.