Street sign reading 'ARTICHOKE HILL' with a small 'E1' on the right side, mounted on a gray wall below a window with textured glass and peeling paint.

Artichoke

There are four instances of this vegetable on London’s street signs. Artichoke Hill is to the East of Tower Hill along the Highway, and was named after a pub called the Artichoke that used to be on the corner. Elsewhere, there’s an Artichoke Mews, and Artichoke Place and an Artichoke Walk.

Fresh green artichoke on a white background

Artichoke

Artichokes were first brought to England in the 16th century during Henry VIII’s reign. Their rarity and unusual shape made them a popular symbol for gardeners, and artichoke signage became common for inns located in areas with gardens.

Once the outer fibrous leaves have been removed, there are many ways in which the heart and more tender parts of the vegetable can be prepared and eaten.

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