The UK’s legal system is known for its history, tradition, and… some rather bizarre laws that have stood the test of time. While most laws serve an obvious purpose, a few raise eyebrows and make you wonder how they ever came to be. Here’s a look at some of the UK’s strangest legal quirks—just in case you’re ever in danger of accidentally becoming a criminal!
No Wearing Suits of Armour in Parliament
Planning to don a full suit of armour for a visit to the Houses of Parliament? Think again! A law from 1313, still technically in force, prohibits anyone from entering Parliament in armour. Though unlikely to be enforced today, it’s a reminder of a time when political debates were a little more… combative.
It’s Illegal to Handle Salmon Suspiciously
Under the Salmon Act 1986, handling salmon “in suspicious circumstances” is an offence. While the law was meant to combat fish-related crime (yes, that’s a thing), it leaves us wondering—what exactly does suspicious salmon-handling look like? Asking for a friend.
Don’t Shake Your Rug in London
Thinking of giving your doormat a quick shake outside your London home? You might be breaking the law! Under the Metropolitan Police Act 1839, shaking or beating a rug in the street is forbidden—unless it’s before 8 a.m. Because, apparently, early-morning rug-shaking is fine.
No Cows in the Streets Without Permission
In the town of Chester, an old law reportedly forbids Welsh people from entering before sunrise and staying after sunset. While this is, of course, not enforced (and deeply outdated), another animal-related law still technically stands—you’re not allowed to herd cows down the street between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. without the Chief Constable’s permission.
It’s an Offence to Be Drunk in a Pub
Believe it or not, under the Licensing Act 1872, it’s illegal to be drunk in a pub. Yes, the very place designed for drinking has a law against excessive merriment. Technically, landlords are supposed to stop serving you if you’ve had too much—though in practice, this law is more about preventing disorderly behaviour than ruining a good night out.
The UK’s legal system is one of the oldest in the world, and with that comes some rather quirky, outdated laws. While most are rarely (if ever) enforced, they serve as amusing reminders of Britain’s long and sometimes eccentric legal history. So, next time you’re handling salmon, shaking a rug, or herding cows, just make sure you’re doing it by the book!
