Most of the street names we’ve become accustomed to seeing have their roots in medieval times and, as a result, some have aged… not so well. Language is constantly evolving but our street signs have not evolved with them, and the new meanings or connotations of words have led to some street names that are charmingly rude while others are downright offensive.
Sheffield is no stranger to these eyebrow-raising street names, with a few that always draw a confused chuckle from unsuspecting visitors. From the quaint Dead Man’s Hole Lane in Tinsley to the downright rude Fanny Avenue in Killamarsh, here are 13 of the strangest street names in and around Sheffield.
5. Pismire Hill
Pismire Hill, near Firth Park, Sheffield, may be missing the second 's' for maximum rudeness, but it will still draw a chuckle from anyone able to connect the dots Photo: Google
6. WIlley Street (now Windrush Way)
Straight to the point here - another penis joke. Who knew our medieval ancestors had such dirty minds when crafting our street names? Willey Street in the city centre was renamed Windrush Street in 2020 to honour members of the Caribbean community who have settled in the area since the 50s and 60s Photo: submitted
7. Fanny Avenue
After a series of penis jokes, it’s time for some gender equality of sorts with a crude street name referring to a derogatory slang term for the female genitals. Fanny Avenue is in Killamarsh, Sheffield. Photo: Google Maps
8. Brigadier Hargreaves Court
This one is less rude and more a bit quirky. Rolls off the tongue quite well actually, a palate cleanser from the earlier filth. Photo: Google