You’ve probably heard about some of the bizarre laws in the UK, although you likely assumed that they were just urban myths. This isn’t true–there are all sorts of outdated laws, although realistically, the police are unlikely to enforce them. Here are 17 peculiar British laws you won’t believe still exist.
It’s Illegal to Die in the Houses of Parliament
Somewhat amusingly, it’s illegal to die in the Houses of Parliament, something that, frankly, we’d imagine you’d have little control over. Culture Trip explains that the reason for this law is due to it supposedly meaning that you’d then be entitled to a funeral paid by the state, although let’s be honest–they’d most certainly find a way to wangle out of that one.
Placing a Stamp Upside Down is Treason
While it might seem minor, placing a stamp bearing the monarch’s image upside down is technically considered an act of treason. This odd rule reflects the monarchy’s symbolic importance within British society, although the police are hardly going to be watching out for this.
No Wearing of Suits of Armour in Parliament
Another bizarre rule relating to the Houses of Parliament is that you’re not allowed to wear a suit of armour inside. Perhaps unsurprisingly, this law comes from medieval times, so it’s a relic from a period when armed confrontations in government buildings were a real threat. The rule underscores the historical need for security and decorum, but you’ll likely never see this particular threat again.
Pregnant Women Can Legally Urinate in a Policeman’s Hat
One of the most famously strange British laws is that pregnant women can legally urinate in a policeman’s hat, and this isn’t a myth. Everyone knows pregnancy comes with a temperamental bladder, so while a policeman will no doubt give you a funny look if you ask, they are legally obliged to allow you to do so. However, that likely won’t be the case for much longer.
Handling Salmon in Suspicious Circumstances
Under the hilarious Salmon Act of 1986, it’s illegal to handle salmon in suspicious circumstances. This law aims to combat illegal fishing activities, yet its wording makes it sound oddly specific and humorous. It’s a quirky reminder of the detailed nature of British legislation.
You Cannot Slide on Ice in London
The UK has no shortage of icy streets in the winter, but sliding down them in London is against the law. This rule was introduced to prevent accidents and injuries during harsh winter conditions but remains in the books despite its outdated nature. However, it’s probably for the best that you continue to follow it.
No Cows in the Streets of London During Daylight
We’ve never seen a cow in the streets of London, and perhaps the reason for this is that the Metropolitan Streets Act of 1867 forbids cows in central London’s streets between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. This was meant to reduce traffic congestion and maintain public order, but you can go ahead and take your cow for a walk around Covent Garden once it gets dark.
It’s an Offense to Beat or Shake Carpets
There’s no denying that it’s frustrating when your neighbour shakes their dirty carpet clean outside your window, but in London, it’s actually illegal. This goes for mats and rugs, too, although the police will let you off if you shake off a doormat, but only before 8 a.m.
Carrying a Plank on a Pavement
Likely in an attempt to keep everyone safe, the Metropolitan Police Act 1839 prohibits carrying a plank of wood along a pavement. We can certainly see why this would be dangerous, but we’d imagine that many people do exactly this on a daily basis, without any police intervention.
It’s Illegal to Gamble in a Library
If you’re gambling in your local library, you probably need to ask yourself why. Not only is that unusual behaviour (just use a casino), but it’s also illegal under the Betting and Gaming Act of 1960. This law was intended to keep libraries as quiet, orderly places for reading and studying, free from gambling distractions. Too right.
Prohibited to be Drunk in a Pub
If you’ve never been drunk in a pub, are you even British? Well, assuming you have, you’re also a criminal because, under the Licensing Act of 1872, it’s illegal to be drunk in a pub. This law was designed to reduce public drunkenness and maintain order in drinking establishments. However, to be honest, it doesn’t feel like it worked.
It’s Illegal to Keep a Pigsty in Front of Your House
A law under the Town Police Clauses Act 1847 prohibits keeping a pigsty in front of your house unless duly hidden. This law was meant to maintain hygiene and public decency and highlights historical concerns about cleanliness and the appearance of residential areas. Frankly, it’s really not a problem we have to deal with anymore, yet the law still exists.
Mince Pies Banned on Christmas Day
Outrageously, an old law, believed to be from the time of Oliver Cromwell, banned the eating of mince pies on Christmas Day. It reflects historical efforts to suppress what were seen as superstitious festive practices. This ban showcases the strictness of past religious reforms, but thankfully, no one will stop you this year.
No Washing Sins in the River Thames
The river Ganges is famous for being a pilgrimage spot for washing away your sins, but amusingly, it’s been banned from doing this in the River Thames. However, this really has nothing to do with religion; It’s illegal to wash or clean yourself in the River Thames, and frankly, we don’t think we would want to–it’s a bit murky.
It’s an Offense to Fire a Cannon Close to a Dwelling
Under the Metropolitan Police Act of 1839, it’s illegal to fire a cannon within 300 yards of a dwelling, which is probably for the best. This law was enacted to prevent disturbances and potential damage to property from loud noises. Cannons don’t exist anymore, so we think it should be rewritten to include loud, banging car exhausts.
Flying a Kite in a Public Place
Most Brits have fond memories of flying a kite in a public park or field, meaning that you were a criminal from day one. Doing this is actually prohibited under the Metropolitan Police Act 1839, a law which was aimed to prevent obstructions and nuisances in public spaces, though it seems overly restrictive today. Now, the police are more concerned about drones.
Being Drunk in Charge of a Cow
Cows were clearly a serious nuisance back in the 19th century because of yet another bizarre British law about them: the Licensing Act of 1872 makes it illegal to be drunk in charge of a cow. This law was intended to prevent accidents and ensure that animals were properly cared for, even if it sounds bizarre now.