Saracens Head Landlord Defends 17th-Century Pub as ‘Piece of History’ While Blasting Lawsuit Filed by Convicted Terrorist Over Racist Name

Pub names often evoke a sense of history and heritage, but in 2025, a centuries-old name is at the center of a modern controversy.

The Saracens Head, a name carried by about 30 pubs across the UK, has come under fire from Khalid Baqa, a convicted terrorist and former propagator of jihadist material.

He argues that the name and its associated imagery are offensive and rooted in a troubling history tied to the Crusades.

The Accusations and Legal Challenges

Baqa has targeted several landlords, including Robbie Hayes of the Saracens Head Inn in Amersham, Simon Belsey of a Grade-I listed pub in Hereford, and Peter Dillingham, who owns a Saracens Head in Kings Langley, Hertfordshire.

His legal demands allege that the pubs’ signs—some depicting helmeted warriors—are racist and incite violence.

In his lawsuit, Baqa described the term “Saracen” as offensive, linking it to the historical use of Muslim heads as trophies during the Crusades.

He further stated that if the word “head” were removed, his objections would be resolved.

Baqa has promised to donate any winnings from his lawsuits to orphaned children in Gaza and Syria, framing his actions as a call for change in a multicultural UK.

Landlords Stand Their Ground

The landlords of the targeted pubs have pushed back strongly.

Robbie Hayes was the first to publicly address Baqa’s claims, and Peter Dillingham, whose pub dates back to the 17th century, described Baqa as “a charlatan” and “just a chancer.”

He pointed out that the sign on his pub shows a helmeted warrior with no racial overtones, asserting that the name reflects a piece of history rather than an intent to offend.

Simon Belsey echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that the name has historical significance and predates modern interpretations.

Dillingham also expressed concerns that a successful lawsuit could pave the way for broader legal challenges against pubs sharing the Saracens Head name.

Historical Context and Modern Perspectives

The term “Saracen” historically referred to Muslims during the time of the Crusades and later evolved into a generic reference in pub names, often illustrated on signs.

Over the centuries, the phrase “The Saracens Head” became a standard naming convention for inns and taverns, with “head” signifying the head-and-shoulders portraits commonly used on signage.

While Baqa views the name as a symbol of oppression, many pub owners argue that it represents a preserved piece of history rather than an endorsement of past conflicts.

Dillingham questioned whether Baqa had even visited many of the pubs he targeted, highlighting the lack of personal engagement behind some of the accusations.

Looking Ahead

As the legal challenges unfold, the landlords are resolute in defending their establishments and their historical names.

While Baqa’s lawsuits aim to provoke reflection on cultural sensitivity and inclusivity, the pub owners argue that erasing historical names might do more harm than good by disconnecting communities from their heritage.

What lies ahead for the Saracens Head and other pubs with similar names remains uncertain.

However, the clash underscores the ongoing tension between preserving history and adapting to a multicultural society in a rapidly changing world.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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