1. It’s Illegal to Wear Armour in Parliament
Under the Statute Forbidding Bearing of Armour 1313, it’s technically illegal to enter the Houses of Parliament wearing a suit of armour. The law was intended to prevent nobles from using intimidation during political debates. Though never enforced in modern times, it still hasn’t been officially repealed.
2. You Can’t Handle a Salmon in Suspicious Circumstances
Yes, really. The Salmon Act 1986 makes it illegal to handle salmon in “suspicious circumstances.” This quirky law was created to help prevent the black market sale of illegally caught fish—but its wording makes it a favourite in lists of strange UK laws.
3. It’s an Offence to Be Drunk in a Pub
Under Section 12 of the Licensing Act 1872, it is technically illegal to be drunk in a licensed premises. So yes, getting tipsy at your local could technically land you in legal trouble—though this law is rarely enforced unless disorderly behaviour follows.
4. You Mustn’t Slide on Icy Pavements
According to old city by-laws, particularly in London, sliding on icy streets “for sport or amusement” is an offence. While largely unenforced today, this rule was originally designed to prevent accidents in public spaces.
5. Carrying a Plank on the Pavement is Banned
Under the Metropolitan Police Act 1839, it is illegal to carry a plank of wood along a pavement. The law was intended to prevent obstruction and accidents on crowded Victorian streets—but technically, it’s still in force.
6. It’s Illegal to Queue Jump at a London Tube Station
Though not a criminal offence, Transport for London (TfL) can fine or remove passengers for queue-jumping, especially at busy stations. Queue etiquette is practically sacred in British culture—so breaking this rule is a serious social offence too!
7. You Can’t Beat a Rug After 8am in Public
Under another clause of the Metropolitan Police Act 1839, it is illegal to beat or shake carpets or rugs in the street after 8am. This law was introduced to keep public spaces clean—especially before vacuum cleaners were a thing.
8. You Need Permission to Transport Corpses
Technically, transporting a dead body on public transport without notifying the authorities or gaining permission can breach both public health and common law statutes. Definitely not your everyday concern—but yes, there are specific rules for this.
9. Driving Cows While Drunk Is Illegal
Under the Licensing Act 1872, it’s an offence to be drunk while in charge of a horse, cow, or steam engine. So if you’re planning a countryside pub crawl on horseback, best keep it under control—or risk a rather unusual fine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these strange UK laws actually enforced?
Most are historical laws that still technically exist but are not actively enforced unless part of larger offences.
Can you really be arrested for being drunk in a pub?
Only if it leads to disorderly conduct or other criminal behaviour. The law exists but is rarely applied today.
Why don’t they just repeal outdated laws?
Repealing laws requires parliamentary time and resources, so many harmless or unused ones are simply left untouched.
What’s the weirdest law that still exists in the UK?
Handling salmon suspiciously under the 1986 Salmon Act is often cited as one of the UK’s most bizarre modern laws.
Do other countries have similar strange laws?
Yes! Many countries have outdated or oddly specific laws that have remained in force for centuries.
Is it illegal to swear in public in the UK?
It can be—especially under public order offences if your language causes alarm or distress.
Conclusion
The UK is steeped in history, and that includes its laws. While most of these strange UK laws won’t land you in jail, they reflect a fascinating glimpse into Britain’s quirky legal past. From salmon handling to cow-herding tipsiness, these oddities show just how colourful British legislation can be. Who knows—you might be breaking one of them without even realising it!