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List of British flags facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

This list includes flags that either have been in use or are currently used by the United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and the Crown dependencies.

The College of Arms is the authority on the flying of flags in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and maintains the only official register of flags for these countries. It was established in 1484 and as part of the Royal Household operates under the authority of the Crown. The Lord Lyon King of Arms holds a similar role within Scotland. A separate private body called the Flag Institute, financed by its own membership, also maintains a registry of United Kingdom flags that it styles 'the UK Flag Registry', though this has no official status under UK law.

Flags recognised by planning law

Certain classes of flag enjoy a special status within English planning law and can be flown without needing the planning permission normally required for advertisements. These include any country’s national flag, civil ensign or civil air ensign; the flag of the Commonwealth, the European Union, the United Nations or any other international organisation of which the United Kingdom is a member; a flag of any island, county, district, borough, burgh, parish, city, town or village within the United Kingdom; the flag of the Black Country, East Anglia, Wessex, any Part of Lincolnshire, any Riding of Yorkshire or any historic county within the United Kingdom; the flag of St David; the flag of St Patrick; the flag of any administrative area within any country outside the United Kingdom; any flag of Her Majesty’s Forces; and the Armed Forces Day flag.

List of British flags
Flag of the United Kingdom.svg
English flags
Northern Irish flags
Scottish flags
Welsh flags
Royal Standards

Current national flags

National and subnational flags of the United Kingdom.

United Kingdom

Flag Date Use Description Status
Flag of the United Kingdom.svg 1801 on The Union Flag, also commonly known as the Union Jack. Used as the flag of the United Kingdom A superimposition of the flags of England and Scotland with the Saint Patrick's Saltire (representing Ireland). National flag used by government and civilian population.

Countries of the United Kingdom

Flag Date Use Description Status
Flag of England.svg c. 1348 Flag of England, also known as the St George's Cross Argent a cross Gules De facto national flag also used by the Church of England, sports teams representing England and ordinary citizens.
Ulster banner.svg 1953–1972; unofficial since 1972 Northern Ireland has no official nor universally accepted flag The national flag of Northern Ireland is the Union Jack. The Ulster Banner portrayed is from the former coat of arms of Northern Ireland and was the flag of the Government of Northern Ireland between 1953–1972. Since 1972 this flag has continued to be used for want of another distinctive flag, almost exclusively amongst the Unionist community.
Flag of Scotland.svg c. 1286 Flag of Scotland, also known as the St Andrew's Cross, or the Saltire Azure a saltire Argent National flag used by Scottish Government and agencies, sports teams representing Scotland and by ordinary citizens.
Flag of Wales 2.svg 1959 on
(variants first appeared c. 1485)
Flag of Wales, also known as the Red Dragon or Y Ddraig Goch Per fess Argent and Vert, a dragon passant Gules National flag used by the Welsh Government and agencies, sports teams representing Wales and by ordinary citizens.

The flags of England and of Scotland are ancient war flags which became by usage the national flags of the Kingdom of England (which included Wales) and of the Kingdom of Scotland respectively and continued in use until the Act of Union 1707. Thereafter they were as de facto flags of those parts of the United Kingdom. The flag of Wales was devised in 1959. The Flag of Northern Ireland (if any) is argued over endlessly. The coat of arms of the Government of Northern Ireland, a red cross on a white field, defaced with a Red Hand of Ulster within a six pointed star topped with a crown, became used as a local flag, though the end of the province's Government in 1973 ended its official status. This flag has continued to be the internationally recognisable de facto flag of Northern Ireland through its use by international sporting organisations (for example FIFA, UEFA, and the Commonwealth Games) to represent Northern Ireland, though locally it has the allegiance mainly of the Unionist community. The St Patrick's Saltire is also sometimes used by the government to represent Northern Ireland when a discrete Northern Ireland flag is required.

Ensigns

Flag Date Use Description
Government Ensign of the United Kingdom.svg 1801 on Blue Ensign, used by some organisations or territories associated with the UK and also used by Royal Navy Reserve Captain of Merchant Navy Ship – e.g., RMS Queen Mary A blue field, with a Union Jack in the canton
Government Service Ensign.svg 1864 on Government Service Ensign (previously the Transport Ensign or Admiralty Ensign) A blue ensign defaced with a horizontal yellow anchor
Civil Ensign of the United Kingdom.svg 1801 on Red Ensign, used by the Merchant Navy A red field, with a Union Jack in the canton
Civil Jack of the United Kingdom.svg Civil Jack A Union Jack with a white border
Civil Air Ensign of the United Kingdom.svg 1931 on Civil Air Ensign, used by civilian aircraft and at civil airports A blue and white cross on a light blue field with the Union Jack in the canton
Civil Defence Service Flag.svg 1943–1945,
1949–1968
Flag of the Civil Defence Service/Civil Defence Corps A blue and yellow flag defaced with a Tudor Crown and the letters CD
Royal British Legion Standard.png A Branch Standard of the Royal British Legion A blue ensign with a yellow band across the middle with the words Royal British Legion and the name of the branch

Naval Service

Flag Date Use Description
Naval Ensign of the United Kingdom.svg 1801 on White Ensign, Royal Navy, usually ships bearing the prefix HMS (but see blue ensign), and the Royal Yacht Squadron A red cross on a white field with the Union Jack in the canton
British-Royal-Fleet-Auxiliary-Ensign.svg 1968 on Ensign of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary A blue ensign defaced with a vertical yellow anchor
British Royal Maritime Auxiliary Ensign.svg 1974–2008 Ensign of the Royal Maritime Auxiliary Service A blue ensign defaced with a horizontal yellow anchor with two wavy yellow lines beneath
British RNXS ensign.png 1963 on Ensign of the Royal Naval Auxiliary Service A blue ensign defaced with the shield of the Royal Naval Auxiliary Service
Ensign of the Sea Cadet Corps.svg Sea Cadet Corps Ensign RNR Blue Ensign with SCC badge
Flag of the Lord High Admiral of the United Kingdom.svg Flag of the Lord High Admiral of the United Kingdom A fouled anchor on a crimson background
Flag of the Royal Marines.png Flag of the Corps of Her Majesty's Royal Marines A dark blue field with unequal horizontal yellow, green and red stripes, and the crest of the Royal Marines.
Flag of the Commandant General Royal Marines.png Flag of the Commandant General Royal Marines A dark blue field with a fouled anchor, lion and crown.

Army

Flag Date Use Description
Flag of the British Army.svg Non-Ceremonial Flag of the British Army A red field defaced with the badge of the British Army.
Royal Engineers Ensign.png 1838 on Ensign of the Corps of Royal Engineers A blue government ensign defaced with the crest of the coat of arms of the Board of Ordnance.
Corps of Royal Engineers Camp Flag.png Camp Flag of the Royal Engineers
British Army Ensign00.svg Ensign of the Royal Logistic Corps for use on vessels commanded by a commissioned officer. A blue government ensign defaced with the British Army badge of a crown and lion in front of crossed swords.
British Army Ensign01.svg Ensign of the Royal Logistic Corps for use on vessels under command of a non-commissioned officer. A blue government ensign defaced by British Army crossed swords.

Air Force

Flag Date Use Description
Ensign of the Royal Air Force.svg 1921 on Royal Air Force Ensign A RAF light blue field with the Royal Air Force roundel in the fly with a Union Jack in the canton
Ensign of the Royal Observer Corps (1952-1995).png 1945–1996 Royal Observer Corps Ensign RAF Ensign with RAF roundel replaced by ROC badge
Ensign of the Air Training Corps.svg Air Training Corps Ensign RAF Ensign with RAF roundel replaced by ATC badge

Combined Forces

Flag Date Use Description
Flag of the Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom).svg 1956 on Flag of the Joint Services A dark blue, red and light blue tricolour defaced with the Joint Service badge. A simplified version with the badge in black is also in use. The tricolour is a combination of the colours of the Armed Forces.
Flag of the British Secretary of State for Defence.svg Flag of the Secretary of State for Defence A dark blue, red and light blue horizontal tricolour defaced with a crown and lion. The tricolour is a combination of the colours of the Armed Forces.
Flag of the Chief of the Defence Staff.svg 1965 on Flag of the Chief of the Defence Staff A dark blue, red and light blue horizontal tricolour with a Union canton and defaced with the badge of the Chief of the Defence Staff. The tricolour is a combination of the colours of the Armed Forces.
Ministry Of Defence Police Ensign.svg 1971 on Ensign of the Ministry of Defence Police A blue ensign defaced with the badge of the Ministry of Defence Police.

Yacht Club Ensigns

Flag Date Use Description
Naval Ensign of the United Kingdom.svg Ensign of the Royal Yacht Squadron The same as the Naval Ensign of the United Kingdom.
Ensign of the Royal Dart Yacht Club.svg Ensign of the Royal Dart Yacht Club. The red ensign defaced with a Royal Crown and a left pointed arrow under the Crown.
Ensign of the Royal Forth Yacht Club.svg Ensign of the Royal Forth Yacht Club The blue ensign defaced by a Cross pattée, surmounted by the Crown of Scotland.
Ensign of the Royal Fowey Yacht Club.svg Ensign of the Royal Fowey Yacht Club The red ensign defaced with the Coronet of the Duke of Cornwall over the Shield of the Duchy of Cornwall.
Ensign of the Royal Harwich Yacht Club.svg Ensign of the Royal Harwich Yacht Club. The blue ensign defaced with a yellow rampant lion.
Ensign of the West Mersea Yacht Club.svg Ensign of the West Mersea Yacht Club. The red ensign deface with three swords (Essex symbol).
Blue Ensign defaced with crown.svg Ensign of the Royal Southampton Yacht Club The blue ensign with a defaced crown in the middle of the Union Jack.
Ensign of the Royal Ulster Yacht Club.svg Ensign of the Royal Ulster Yacht Club. The blue ensign defaced with the Red Hand of Ulster and St Edward's Crown.
Ensign of the Royal Windermere Yacht Club.svg Ensign of the Royal Windermere Yacht Club The red ensign defaced with a Royal Crown.

Royal Standards

Queen Elizabeth II

Flag Date Use Description
Royal Standard of the United Kingdom.svg 1837 on The Royal Standard of the United Kingdom (except Scotland) A banner of the Queen's Arms, the Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom
Royal Standard of the United Kingdom in Scotland.svg 1837 on The Royal Standard of the United Kingdom (only Scotland) A banner of the Queen's Arms used in Scotland, the Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom used in Scotland
Personal flag of Queen Elizabeth II.svg 1952 on Personal Flag of Elizabeth II, used by the Queen in her capacity as Head of the Commonwealth A crowned letter 'E' in gold, surrounded by a garland of gold roses on a blue background

Standards and Banners of the Prince of Wales

Flag Date Use Description
Prince of Wales Standard.svg Standard of the Prince of Wales, used in England and Northern Ireland A banner of the Coat of Arms of the Prince of Wales, the Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom defaced with a label of three points. In the centre on an inescutcheon, ensigned with a representation of the coronet of the Prince of Wales, the Coat of arms of Wales.
Flag of the Duke of Cornwall.svg Standard of the Prince of Wales as Duke of Cornwall 15 golden circles (bezants) on a black field
Royal Standard of the Duke of Rothesay.svg Standard of the Prince of Wales as Duke of Rothesay. The Royal Banner of Scotland defaced with a label of three points.
Personal Banner of the Duke of Rothesay.svg Banner of the Prince of Wales as Duke of Rothesay Banner of the Duke's Arms, 1st and 4th quarters representing the title of Great Steward of Scotland, the 2nd and 3rd quarters representing the title of Lord of the Isles. In the centre on an inescutcheon the arms of the heir apparent to the King of Scots
Personal Banner of the Prince of Wales.svg 1962 on Banner of the Prince of Wales, used in Wales A banner of the Coat of Arms of Wales. In the centre on an inescutcheon the coronet of the Prince of Wales

Other members of the Royal Family

Flag Date Use Description
Duke of Edinburgh Standard.svg 1948 on Standard of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh A banner of the Coat of Arms of the Duke of Edinburgh, 1st quarter representing Denmark, 2nd quarter Greece, 3rd quarter the Mountbatten family, 4th quarter Edinburgh
Royal Standard of Prince William.svg 2000 on Standard of HRH The Duke of Cambridge Banner of the Prince's Coat of Arms, the Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom with a three-point label, the centre label bearing an Escallop in reference to the arms of Diana, Princess of Wales
Royal Standard of Prince Henry of Wales.svg 2002 on Standard of HRH Prince Henry of Wales (Prince Harry) Banner of the Prince's Coat of Arms, the Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom with a five-point label, the first, centre and fifth labels bearing an Escallop in reference to the arms of Diana, Princess of Wales
Royal Standard of Prince Andrew, Duke of York.svg 1978 on Standard of HRH The Duke of York Banner of the Duke's Coat of Arms, the Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom with a three-point label, the centre label bearing a blue anchor
Royal Standard of Princess Beatrice of York.svg 2006 on Standard of HRH Princess Beatrice of York Banner of the Princess's Coat of Arms, the Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom with a five-point label with three bees in alternating points
Royal Standard of Princess Eugenie of York.svg 2008 on Standard of HRH Princess Eugenie of York Banner of the Princess's Coat of Arms, the Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom with a five-point label with three thistle heads in alternating points
Royal Standard of Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex.svg Standard of HRH The Earl of Wessex Banner of the Earl's Coat of Arms, the Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom with a three-point label, the centre label bearing a Tudor Rose
Royal Standard of Princess Anne, Princess Royal.svg Standard of HRH The Princess Royal Banner of the Princess's Coat of Arms, the Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom with a three-point label, the first and third labels bearing a red cross, the centre label bearing a red heart.
Royal Standard of Prince Richard, Duke of Gloucester.svg 1962 on Standard of HRH The Duke of Gloucester Banner of the Duke's Coat of Arms, the Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom with a five-point label, the first, third and fifth labels bearing a red cross, the second and fourth labels bearing a red lion.
Royal Standard of Prince Edward, Duke of Kent.svg Standard of HRH The Duke of Kent Banner of the Duke's Coat of Arms, the Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom with a five-point label, the first, third and fifth labels bearing a blue anchor, the second and fourth labels bearing a red cross.
Royal Standard of Prince Michael of Kent.svg Standard of HRH Prince Michael of Kent Banner of the Prince's Coat of Arms, the Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom with a five-point label, the first, third and fifth labels bearing a red cross, the second and fourth labels bearing a blue anchor.
Royal Standard of Princess Alexandra, The Honourable Lady Ogilvy.svg 1961 on Standard of HRH Princess Alexandra, The Honourable Lady Ogilvy Banner of the Princess's Coat of Arms, the Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom with a five-point label, the first and fifth labels bearing a red heart, the third label bearing a red cross, the second and fourth labels bearing a blue anchor.

Others

Flag Date Use Description
Lionrampant.svg 1323 on The Royal Banner of Scotland A banner of the ancient Royal Arms of Scotland, now officially used in Scotland by representatives of the sovereign, including the First Minister of Scotland, (as keeper of the Great Seal of Scotland), the Lord High Commissioner to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, the Lord Lyon King of Arms and Lord-Lieutenants within their lieutenancies. This flag is also used at the Royal residences of Holyrood Palace and Balmoral Castle when the sovereign is not present.
United-Kingdom-Lord-Lieutenant.svg Flag used by the Lord-Lieutenants, the sovereign's representative in the counties of the United Kingdom, except by those in Scotland (see above). The Union Jack, defaced with a sword, crowned.
Flag of the Duchy of Lancaster.svg Standard of the Duchy of Lancaster The Royal Banner of England, with a three-point label, each containing three fleurs-de-lis
Lord Warden Cinque Ports (Lord Boyce).svg Standard of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports A banner of the Lord's coat of arms featuring three Lions passant guardant con-joined to these hulls, all in gold

Church

Flag Date Use Description
Anglican rose.svg Flag of the Anglican Communion A dark blue background with the symbol of the Anglican Communion (a compass rose surmounted by a bishop's mitre; in the centre is a cross of St George). The Greek motto, Ἡ ἀλήθεια ἐλευθερώσει ὑμᾶς ("The truth will set you free") is a quotation from John 8:32.
St Patrick's saltire.svg 1999 on Flag used by the Church of Ireland The flag of Saint Patrick is one of two flags authorised for use on Church of Ireland buildings and grounds. The other is that of the Anglican Communion above.
Flag of the Church of Scotland.svg Flag of the Church of Scotland The flag of Scotland with the burning bush in the centre.
Standard of Westminster Abbey.svg Flag of Westminster Abbey Tudor arms between Tudor roses, above Edward the Confessor's arms.
Church in Wales flag.svg Flag of the Church in Wales A navy blue cross with a celtic cross in the centre.

Diplomatic flags

Flag Date Use Description
British Ambassador Ensign.svg Flag used by British Embassies A Union Jack defaced with the Royal coat of arms of the United Kingdom
Flag of the United Kingdom.svg Flag used by British High Commissions High commissions fly the Union Jack
UK-Consular.svg Flag used by British Consulates and Consulates-general A Union Jack defaced with the Royal Crown
British Diplomatic Ensign.svg Flag used by British consular officials when embarked in small boats; flag displayed at bow A blue ensign with the Royal coat of arms of the United Kingdom

The Channel Islands and the Isle of Man (Crown dependencies)

Flag Date Use Description
Flag of Alderney.svg 1993 on Flag of Alderney A red cross on a white field (St George's Cross) with an inescutcheon of the island's coat of arms. Alderney is an autonomous Crown Dependency and is part of the Bailiwick of Guernsey.
Flag of Guernsey.svg 1985 on Flag of Guernsey A golden cross within a red cross on a white field (St George's Cross). Guernsey is an autonomous Crown Dependency and is part of the Bailiwick of Guernsey.
Civil Ensign of Guernsey.svg 1985 on Civil Ensign of Guernsey A red ensign with a Gold Cross.
Government Ensign of Guernsey.svg 1985 on State Ensign of Guernsey A blue ensign with a Gold Cross.
Flag of Herm.svg Flag of Herm A red cross on a white field (St George's Cross) with the coat of arms of the island in the canton. Herm is an island which belongs to the Bailiwick of Guernsey.
Flag of the Isle of Mann.svg 1931 on Flag of the Isle of Man A triskelion on a red field
Civil Ensign of the Isle of Man.svg 1971 on Civil Ensign of the Isle of Man A red ensign with a triskelion
Flag of Jersey.svg 1981 on Flag of Jersey A red saltire on a white field defaced with the island's badge
Civil Ensign of Jersey.svg 2010 on Civil Ensign of Jersey A Red Ensign with the coat of arms of Jersey on
Government Ensign of Jersey.svg Government Ensign of Jersey A blue ensign with the arms of Jersey
Flag of Sark.svg 1938 on Flag of Sark A red cross on a white field (St George's Cross) with two lions (the arms of the Plantagenet Dukes of Normandy) in the canton. Strictly speaking, this was the personal flag of the Seigneur. Sark is an autonomous Crown Dependency and is part of the Bailiwick of Guernsey..

Overseas territories

In 1999, the maritime flags of the British Overseas Territories were updated at the request of the Ministry of Defence. The white discs were removed from the field of the flags and each respective coat of arms was increased in size for ease of identification. As the MoD only had authority over sea flags, the Governments of the Overseas Territories were free to continue using the flags with white discs on land. The Overseas Territories' governments did switch to the updated flags over a staggered period of time, however some old-style flags with white discs may still be seen. Such flags have generally been adopted by Order in Council. Civil (Red Ensign) flags are under the control of the United Kingdom Secretary of State for Transport and are split into two categories: Category 1 is to register ships of unlimited tonnage and type. category 2 is to register commercial ships and yachts of up to 150 gross registered tons.

Flag Date Use Description
Flag of Anguilla.svg 1990 on Flag of Anguilla A blue ensign defaced with the Coat of Arms of Anguilla
Flag of the United Kingdom.svg Flag used in Akrotiri and Dhekelia The Union Jack is used as no territory flag exists
Flag of Ascension Island.svg 2013 on Flag of Ascension Island, an island of Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha A blue ensign defaced with the Coat of arms of Ascension Island
Flag of Bermuda.svg 1910 on Flag of Bermuda A red ensign defaced with the Coat of Arms of Bermuda. Used on land and as the civil ensign. (Government ensign is blue.)
Flag of the British Antarctic Territory.svg 1963 on Flag of the British Antarctic Territory A white ensign less the cross of St George defaced with the Coat of Arms of the British Antarctic Territory
Flag of the British Indian Ocean Territory.svg 1990 on Flag of the British Indian Ocean Territory A blue ensign with white wavy lines, defaced with the Coat of Arms of the British Indian Ocean Territory.
Flag of the British Virgin Islands.svg 1960 on Flag of British Virgin Islands A blue ensign defaced with the Coat of Arms of the British Virgin Islands. Used on land and as the government ensign. The civil ensign is red.
Flag of the Cayman Islands.svg 1958 on Flag of Cayman Islands A blue ensign defaced with the Coat of Arms of Cayman Islands. Used on land and as the government ensign. The civil ensign is red.
Flag of the Falkland Islands.svg 1999 on Flag of Falkland Islands A blue ensign defaced with the Coat of Arms of Falkland Islands. Used on land and as the government ensign. The civil ensign is red.
Flag of Gibraltar.svg 1982 on Flag of Gibraltar Two horizontal bands of white (top, double width) and red with a three-towered red castle in the centre of the white band; hanging from the castle gate is a gold key centred in the red band. This is the flag commonly used on land.
Government Ensign of Gibraltar.svg 1921 on Government Ensign of Gibraltar A British Blue Ensign with the Union Jack in the canton and the badge of Gibraltar in the fly. This is the ensign for vessels owned by the Government, or in Government service.
Civil Ensign of Gibraltar.svg 1996 on Civil Ensign of Gibraltar A British Red Ensign with the Union Jack in the canton and the badge of Gibraltar in the fly; the civil ensign for locally registered vessel.
Flag of Montserrat.svg 1909 on Flag of Montserrat A blue ensign defaced with the Coat of arms of Montserrat
Flag of the Pitcairn Islands.svg 1984 on Flag of Pitcairn Island A blue ensign defaced with the Coat of arms of the Pitcairn Islands
Flag of Saint Helena.svg 1984 on Flag of Saint Helena, an island of Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha A blue ensign defaced with the Coat of Arms of Saint Helena
Flag of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands.svg 1985 on Flag of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands A blue ensign defaced with the Coat of Arms of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
Flag of Tristan da Cunha.svg 2002 on Flag of Tristan da Cunha, an island of Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha A blue ensign defaced with the Coat of Arms of Tristan da Cunha
Flag of the Turks and Caicos Islands.svg 1968 on Flag of Turks and Caicos Islands A blue ensign defaced with the Coat of arms of Turks and Caicos Islands

Governors' flags

Prior to 1999, all Governors' flags had smaller discs and the outer green garland without the gold ring. Therefore, the dates given do not reflect this minor, consistent change.

Flag Date Use Description
Flag of the Governor of Anguilla.svg 1990 on Personal flag of the Governor of Anguilla A Union Jack defaced with the Coat of arms of Anguilla
Flag of the Governor of Bermuda.svg Before 2011 Personal flag of the Governor of Bermuda A Union Jack defaced with the Coat of arms of Bermuda
Flag of the Commissioner of the British Antarctic Territory.svg 1962 on Personal flag of the Commissioner of the British Antarctic Territory A Union Jack defaced with the Coat of arms of the British Antarctic Territory
Flag of the British Indian Ocean Territory.svg 1990 on Flag of the Commissioner of the British Indian Ocean Territory A design based on the Blue Ensign with a Union Jack in the union and wavy white lines going horizontally along the field, defaced with the Coat of arms of the British Indian Ocean Territory. This flag is also used as the de facto flag of the Territory.
Flag of the Governor of the British Virgin Islands.svg 1971 on Personal flag of the Governor of the British Virgin Islands A Union Jack defaced with the Coat of arms of the British Virgin Islands
Flag of the Governor of the Cayman Islands.svg 1971 on Personal flag of the Governor of the Cayman Islands A Union Jack defaced with the Coat of arms of the Cayman Islands
Flag of the Governor of the Falkland Islands.svg 1948 on Personal flag of the Governor of the Falkland Islands A Union Jack defaced with the Coat of arms of the Falkland Islands
Flag of the Governor of Gibraltar.svg Before 2011 Personal flag of the Governor of Gibraltar A Union Jack defaced with the Coat of arms of Gibraltar
Flag of the Governor of Montserrat.svg Before 2011 Personal flag of the Governor of Montserrat A Union Jack defaced with the Coat of arms of Montserrat
Flag of the Governor of the Pitcairn Islands.svg Before 2011 Personal flag of the Governor of the Pitcairn Islands A Union Jack defaced with the Coat of arms of the Pitcairn Islands
Flag of the Governor of Saint Helena.svg Before 2011 Personal flag of the Governor of Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha A Union Flag defaced with the Coat of arms of Saint Helena
Flag of the Commissioner for South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands.svg 1999 on Personal flag of the Commissioner for South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands A Union Jack defaced with the Coat of arms of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
Flag of the Administrator of Tristan da Cunha.svg 2002 on Personal flag of the Administrator of Tristan da Cunha A Union Jack defaced with the Coat of arms of Tristan da Cunha. The Administrator is subservient to the Governor of Saint Helena
Flag of the Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands.svg Before 2011 Personal flag of the Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands A Union jack defaced with the Coat of arms of the Turks and Caicos Islands

Islands

Flag Date Use Description
Western Isles Council Flag.svg Flag of the Outer Hebrides
2007 Flag of Orkney.svg 2007 on Flag of Orkney A blue Nordic cross outlined in yellow on a red field.
Flag of Isle of Portland.gif 14 April 2010 Flag of the Isle of Portland(Registered by the Flag Institute) The colours represent the landscape of the area: Portland stone, grass and the sea. The white tower represents the castles and the naval coronet shows the long connection with the Royal Navy.
ScillonianCross.svg Flag of the Isles of Scilly The Scillonian Cross
Flag of Shetland.svg 1969 on Flag of Shetland A white Nordic cross on a light blue field
Flag of the Isle of Wight.svg 2009 on Flag of the Isle of Wight A pale blue field with a nicked rhombus (a representation of the island's shape) and at the bottom six alternating bars wavy, navy blue and white.

Miscellaneous

Flag Date Use Description
Cornish Ensign.svg Unofficial Cornish ensign The flag of Cornwall (a white cross on a black field), with the Union Jack in the canton.
Flag of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.svg Flag of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution A red cross with a blue border on a white field, with the letters RNLI in red in each quarter, defaced with a crowned anchor
St John Ambulance Flag.png Flag of the St John Ambulance Brigade
Flag of Saint David.svg Flag of Saint David A gold cross on a black field. This is flown in Wales especially on St David's Day. This flag and the St Patrick's flag are not considered national flags but may be flown without special consent.
Standard of the Salvation Army.svg 1878 on Flag of the Salvation Army A maroon flag with a blue border defaced by a yellow star with the Salvation Army's motto "Blood & Fire" written on it

Historical and informal areas

It is explicitly permitted to fly the flag of the Black Country, East Anglia, Wessex, any Part of Lincolnshire, any Riding of Yorkshire or any historic county within the United Kingdom without needing any permission or consent.

Historic kingdoms and regions

Flag Date Use Description
Black Country Flag.svg 2012 on Flag of the Black Country Per pall reversed Sable, Gules and Argent a pall reversed Argent over all an inverted chevron of chain counterchanged Argent, Sable, Argent. (Registered by the Flag Institute)
Flag of East Anglia.svg 1900 on Flag of East Anglia. The arms ascribed to the Wuffingas dynasty of East Anglia, three crowns on a blue shield, superimposed on a St George's cross (Registered by the Flag Institute) .
Saint Alban's cross.svg Flag of Mercia – the Cross of St Alban A gold saltire on a blue field; the traditional flag of the Kingdom of Mercia, still flown on Tamworth Castle.
FlagOfWessex.svg 1970s Flag of Wessex A gold wyvern on a red field. (Registered by the Flag Institute)

Historic counties

Flag Date Use Description
Flag of Anglesey.svg 2014 on Flag of Anglesey Gules between three lions rampant or a chevron of the second: the attributed arms of Hwfa ap Cynddelw, the traditional badge of the county. (Registered by the Flag Institute)
Bedfordshire County Flag.svg 2014 on Flag of Bedfordshire Based on the arms of Beauchamp, Barons of Bedford (red and gold) and Russell, Dukes of Bedford (black with 3 scallops). Unlike the old county council banner, the bars wavy are counterchanged per pale. (Registered by the Flag Institute)
Flag of Buckinghamshire.svg 2011 on Flag of Buckinghamshire A red and black field bearing a chained swan: a traditional badge of the county. (Registered by the Flag Institute) (Chosen in a BBC competition)
Flag of Caernarfonshire.svg 2012 on Flag of Caernarfonshire Vert, three eagles displayed in fess Or. (Registered by the Flag Institute)
Flag of Caithness.svg 2016 on Flag of Caithness A Scandinavian cross flag for the county's Norse heritage, with the civic badge of Caithness, a ship with a raven on its sail, in the upper hoist. (Registered by the Flag Institute) (Enrolled by the Lord Lyon)
Cambridgeshire Flag.svg 2015 on Flag of Cambridgeshire Blue with wavy lines in Cambridge blue, and the three crowns of East Anglia. (Registered by the Flag Institute) (Chosen by competition)
Cheshire Flag.svg 2013 on Flag of Cheshire Azure a Sword erect between three Garbs Or (Registered by the Flag Institute)
Flag of Cornwall.svg 12th century St Piran's Flag – the Flag of Cornwall A white cross on a black field. (Registered by the Flag Institute)
Cumberland flag.svg 2012 on The Flag of Cumberland Based on a banner of the arms of the former Cumberland County Council.(Registered by the Flag Institute)
Derbyshire flag.svg 2006 on Flag of Derbyshire A green cross with a white border on a sky blue field, with a gold Tudor rose in the centre. (Registered by the Flag Institute) (Chosen in a BBC competition)
Flag of Devon.svg 2003 on Flag of Devon – St Petroc's flag A white cross with a black border on a green field. (Registered by the Flag Institute) (Chosen by competition)
County Durham Flag.svg 2013 on Flag of County Durham A gold and blue horizontal bicolour with St. Cuthbert's Cross countercharged upon it. (Registered by the Flag Institute) (Chosen by competition)
Saint Wite's Cross.svg 2008 on Flag of Dorset – the Dorset Cross alias St Wite's Cross A white cross with a red border on a gold field.(Registered by the Flag Institute) (Chosen by competition)
Flag of Essex.svg Possibly 6th century Flag of Essex A red field with three white, gold hilted Saxon swords (Seaxes). (Registered by the Flag Institute)
Flag of Flintshire.svg 2015 on Flag of Flintshire Argent, between four Cornish choughs sable a cross engrailed flory of the second. (Registered by the Flag Institute) ; the arms attributed to Edwin Tegeingl (Edwin ap Gronwy)
Glamorgan Flag.svg 12th century Flag of Glamorgan Gules, three Chevronels Argent. (Registered by the Flag Institute)
Severn Cross.svg 2008 on Flag of Gloucestershire – the Severn Cross The winning entry in a competition to commemorate the county's millennium. (Registered by the Flag Institute) (Chosen by competition)
County Flag of Hertfordshire.svg 2008 on Flag of Hertfordshire On a waved background, a Hart reclining on a yellow shield – a flag displayed on the crest of the county arms(Registered by the Flag Institute) A banner of the council's arms
Flag of Huntingdonshire.svg 2009 on Flag of Huntingdonshire On a green background, a gold, ribboned hunting horn – a flag displayed on the crest of the county arms (Registered by the Flag Institute)
Kent flag.svg Flag of Kent A red field with the white horse of Kent in the centre. (Registered by the Flag Institute)
Flag of Kirkcudbrightshire.svg 2016 on Flag of Kirkcudbrightshire A green and white quartered field bearing the Cross of St Cuthbert (from whom the county is named). (Registered by the Flag Institute) (Enrolled by the Lord Lyon)
FlagOfLancashire.svg 2008 on Flag of Lancashire The red rose of Lancashire on a yellow field. (Registered by the Flag Institute)
Lincolnshire flag.svg 2005 on Flag of Lincolnshire Quarterly Vert and Azure, on a Cross Gules fimbriated Or a Fleur-de-Lis of the last. (Registered by the Flag Institute) (Chosen in a BBC competition)
Flag of Merionethshire.svg 2015 on Flag of Merionethshire Azure, three goats rampant Argent, armed and unguled Or; from the dexter base the sun in his splendour issuant Or. (Registered by the Flag Institute)
FlagOfMiddlesex.PNG 1910 Flag of Middlesex A red field with three white, gold hilted Saxon swords or Seaxes under a gold Saxon crown. (Registered by the Flag Institute)
Flag of Monmouthshire.svg 2011 on Flag of Monmouthshire Per pale Azure and Sable three Fleurs-de-lis Or. (Registered by the Flag Institute)
Flag of Norfolk.svg 2014 on Flag of Norfolk Party per pale or and sable, a bend ermine; the attributed arms of Ralph de Gael or Guader, 1st Earl of Norfolk (Registered by the Flag Institute)
Flag of Northamptonshire.svg 2014 on Flag of Northamptonshire Maroon with a gold cross fimbrated black, and in the centre the county's traditional rose. (Registered by the Flag Institute) (Chosen by competition)
Flag of Northumberland.svg 1951 Flag of Northumberland Local authority flag with use permitted to local people. Based on the St Oswald banner (below). (Registered by the Flag Institute)
County Flag of Nottinghamshire.svg 2011 on Flag of Nottinghamshire A red cross fimbrated white on a green field, with an inescutcheon in the centre showing Robin Hood. (Registered by the Flag Institute) (Chosen in a BBC competition)
2007 Flag of Orkney.svg 2007 on Flag of Orkney A blue Nordic cross outlined in yellow on a red field. (Registered by the Flag Institute) (Enrolled by the Lord Lyon)
Flag of Pembrokeshire.svg 1988 on Flag of Pembrokeshire A yellow cross on a blue field with a variation of the red and white Tudor rose in the centre. (Registered by the Flag Institute)
Rutland County Flag.svg 2015 on Flag of Rutland A green field strewn with acorns and a golden horseshoe in the centre. (Registered by the Flag Institute)
Flag of Shetland.svg 1969 on Flag of Shetland A white Nordic cross on a light blue field. (Registered by the Flag Institute) (Enrolled by the Lord Lyon)
Flag of Shropshire.svg 2012 on Flag of Shropshire Three leopards' faces, referred to as loggerheads locally, are a traditional emblem for Shropshire and its county town, Shrewsbury. The erminois aspect differentiates the county flag with that of Shrewsbury. (Registered by the Flag Institute) A banner of the council's arms
Somerset Flag.svg 2013 on Flag of Somerset Or, a Dragon Rampant Gules. (Registered by the Flag Institute) (Chosen by competition)
Staffordshire Flag.svg 2016 on Flag of Staffordshire A red chevron on gold, with the Stafford knot.(Registered by the Flag Institute) (Chosen by competition)
Flag of Surrey.svg 2014 on County Flag of Surrey Chequy or and azure (De Warrenne, the first Earls of Surrey) – the traditional emblem of the county.(Registered by the Flag Institute)
Flag of Sussex.svg 2010 on Flag of Sussex – Saint Richard's Flag Based on the traditional emblem of Sussex; Six gold martlets on a Blue field, first recorded in 1611 and used by many Sussex organisations. (Registered by the Flag Institute)
Flag of Warwickshire.svg August 2016 on Flag of Warwickshire A bear and ragged staff, the badge of the Earls of Warwick which has become a symbol the county, white on red. (Registered by the Flag Institute)
Flag of Westmorland.svg 2011 on Flag of Westmorland A golden heraldic apple tree on white and red bars. (Registered by the Flag Institute)
County Flag of Wiltshire.svg 2009 on Flag of Wiltshire Alternating downward angled stripes of green and white bearing a green disc within six alternating green and white sections, on which stands an image of a great bustard. (Registered by the Flag Institute) Accepted by Wiltshire Council in December 2009
Flag of Worcestershire.svg 2013 on Flag of Worcestershire Three black pears on a shield charged against a wavy green and blue background. (Registered by the Flag Institute) (Chosen in a BBC competition)
FlagOfYorkshire.svg 1960s on Flag of Yorkshire A White Rose on a blue field. (Registered by the Flag Institute)
Yorkshire - East Riding flag.jpg 2013 on Flag of the East Riding of Yorkshire Per pale Azure and Vert, an inverted rose Argent. (Registered by the Flag Institute) (Chosen by competition)
North Riding.svg 2013 on Flag of the North Riding of Yorkshire Vert a cross azure fimbriated or, a rose argent (Registered by the Flag Institute) (Chosen by competition)
West Riding Flag.PNG 2013 on Flag of the West Riding of Yorkshire (Registered by the Flag Institute) (Chosen by competition)

Historical flags

National flags and ensigns

Flag Date Use Description
Government Ensign of Northern Ireland (1929-1973).svg 1929–1973 Ensign of the former Northern Ireland government. The blue ensign defaced with the letters GNI. Used on vessels of the Northern Ireland government.
Ulster banner.svg 1953–1972 The Ulster Banner – Flag of the former Government of Northern Ireland between 1953 and 1972 and still used to represent Northern Ireland in some sporting events in which Northern Ireland competes. The flag is particularly associated with the loyalist and unionist communities in Northern Ireland. A red cross on a white field with a red hand, on a six pointed white star, crowned (representing the six counties in Northern Ireland). The Ulster Banner ceased to be officially recognised with the passing of the Northern Ireland Constitution Act 1973 which dissolved the Parliament of Northern Ireland.
Union flag 1606 (Kings Colors).svg 1606–1801 Flag of the Kingdom of Great Britain (From 1707) First version of the Union Jack used in England from 1606 and Scotland from 1707 – the Flags of England and Scotland superimposed.
Union Jack 1606 Scotland.svg 17th century Scottish Union Flag Scottish Union Flag variant
St Patrick's saltire.svg 1783–1922 Saint Patrick's Saltire, also known as St Patrick's Cross, the symbol of The Most Illustrious Order of Saint Patrick, the British order of chivalry associated with Ireland. A red saltire on a white field. Used to represent Ireland in the Union Jack and unofficially to represent Ireland from the Act of Union to the Anglo-Irish Treaty.
English Red Ensign 1620.svg 1620–1707 English Red Ensign The Red Ensign of the English Royal Navy
English White Ensign 1620.svg 1620–1707 English White Ensign The White Ensign of the English Royal Navy
English Blue Ensign 1620.svg 1620–1707 English Blue Ensign The Blue Ensign of the English Royal Navy
Scottish Red Ensign.svg Until 1707 Scottish Red Ensign, used by the Royal Scottish Navy A red ensign with the Flag of Scotland in the canton
British-Red-Ensign-1707.svg 1707–1801 Red Ensign of Great Britain The Red Ensign with the first version of the Union Jack. (This was the flag flown over the Thirteen Colonies before the American Revolution)
British-White-Ensign-1707.svg 1707–1801 White Ensign of Great Britain The White Ensign with the first version of the Union Jack.
British-Blue-Ensign-1707.svg 1707–1801 Blue Ensign of Great Britain The Blue Ensign with the first version of the Union Jack.
Flag of the Commonwealth (1649-1651).svg 1649–1651 Flag of the Commonwealth of England St George's Cross and an Irish Harp juxtaposed.
Flag of The Commonwealth.svg 1651–1658 Flag of the Commonwealth of England St George's Cross and St Andrew's cross quartered.
Flag of the Commonwealth (1658-1660).svg 1658–1660 Flag of The Protectorate The 1606 Union Jack defaced with an Irish Harp.

Lord Protector's standard

Flag Date Use Description
Standard of Oliver Cromwell (1653–1659).svg 1653–1658 Standard of the Lord Protector, used by Oliver Cromwell The cross of St. George quartered with the cross of St. Andrew and the Irish Harp, and surmounted by an escutcheon with Cromwell's personal coat of arms.

British Empire and overseas territories

Flag Date Use Description
Flag of the Colony of Aden.svg 1937–1963 Flag of the Crown Colony of Aden A blue ensign defaced with an Arab ship inside a disc
British-Red-Ensign-1707.svg Until 1801 (Canada)
Until 1776 (US, de facto)
Until 1783 (US, de jure)
The flag of British America, part of which is now Canada and the United States A red ensign with the first version of the Union Jack.
Colonial ensigns of Antigua and Barbuda (1956-1962).svg 1956–1962 Flag of Antigua and Barbuda A blue ensign defaced with the colonial coat of arms of Antigua on a white disc
Colonial ensigns of Antigua and Barbuda (1962-1967).svg 1962–1967 Flag of Antigua and Barbuda A blue ensign defaced with the colonial coat of arms of Antigua
Flag of the Bahamas (1869-1904).svg 1869–1904 Flag of the Crown Colony of the Bahama Islands A Blue Ensign with the Badge of the Bahama islands.
Flag of the Bahamas (1904-1923).svg 1904–1923 Flag of the Crown Colony of the Bahama Islands A Blue Ensign with the Badge of the Bahama Islands.
Flag of the Bahamas (1923-1953).svg 1923–1953 Flag of the Crown Colony of the Bahama Islands A Blue Ensign with the Badge of the Bahama Islands.
Flag of the Bahamas (1953-1964).svg 1953–1964 Flag of the Crown Colony of the Bahama Islands A Blue Ensign with the Badge of the Bahama Islands.
Bahamas Blue Ensign 1964.PNG 1964–1973 Flag of the Crown Colony of the Bahama Islands A Blue Ensign defaced with the Badge of the Bahama Islands.
Flag of British Central Africa Protectorate.svg 1893–1907 Flag of the British Central Africa Protectorate A Blue Ensign with an emblem of the British Central Africa Protectorate
Flag of Barbados (1870–1966).png 1885–1958 Flag of the Crown colony of Barbados A Blue Ensign with an emblem of Barbados
Flag of Barbados (1870–1966).png 1958–1966 Flag of the Crown colony of Barbados A Blue Ensign with an emblem of Barbados
Unofficial Basutoland Ensign.svg 1951–1966 Flag of the Colony of Basutoland A Blue Ensign with an emblem of Basutoland
British Cameroons Flag.png 1922–1961 Flag of the British Cameroons A blue ensign defaced with the words British Cameroon surrounded by bananas all inside a white disc
Flag of British guiana 1919-1954.gif 1919–1954 Flag of the British Guiana A blue ensign defaced with a sailing ship and the motto inside an oval
Flag of British Honduras (1870-1919).svg 1870–1919 Flag of British Honduras A blue ensign defaced with the coat of arms of British Honduras inside a white disc.
Flag of British Honduras (1919-1981).svg 1919–1981 Flag of British Honduras A blue ensign defaced with the coat of arms of British Honduras
Flag of the British Windward Islands (1903-1958).png 1903–1958 Flag of the British Windward Islands A blue ensign defaced with the arms of the British Windward Islands inside a disc
British Burma 1937 flag.svg 1937–1948 Flag of Burma A blue ensign defaced with a peafowl inside a disc
Canadian Red Ensign 1868-1921.svg 1868–1921 Flag of Canada A red ensign defaced with the coat of arms of the Dominion of Canada
Canadian Red Ensign 1921-1957.svg 1921–1957 Flag of Canada A red ensign defaced with the coat of arms of the Dominion of Canada
Canadian Red Ensign 1957-1965.svg 1957–1965 Flag of Canada A red ensign defaced with the coat of arms of the Dominion of Canada
Cape Colony flag.png 1795–1910 Flag of the Cape Colony A blue ensign defaced with the shield-of-arms of Cape Colony
British Ceylon flag.svg 1815–1948 Flag of Ceylon A blue ensign defaced with the Coat of Arms of Ceylon
Flag of Cyprus (1881-1922).svg 1881-1922 Flag of Cyprus A blue ensign defaced with the letters, "CHC" inside a white disk.
Flag of Cyprus (1922-1960).svg 1922–1960 Flag of Cyprus A blue ensign defaced with two red lions
Flag of Dominica 1955-1965.svg 1955–1965 Flag of Dominica A Blue Ensign with an emblem of Dominica
Flag of Dominica (1961-1978).svg 1965–1978 Flag of Dominica A Blue Ensign with an emblem of Dominica
Flag Falklands 1876-1925.gif 1876–1925 Flag of the Falkland Islands A blue ensign defaced with the seal of the Falkland Islands
Flag Falklands 1925-1948.gif 1925–1948 Flag of the Falkland Islands A blue ensign defaced with the Colonial Badge of the Falkland Islands
Flag of the Falkland Islands (1948-1999).svg 1948–1999 Flag of the Falkland Islands A blue ensign defaced with the Coat of Arms of the Falkland Islands on a white disc
Government Ensign of Gibraltar 1875-1921.svg 1875–1921 Historical Government Ensign of Gibraltar A blue ensign defaced with the badge of Gibraltar on a white disc
Flag of Grenada 1967.svg 1967–1974 Flag of Grenada Three equal horizontal stripes blue, yellow and green from top to bottom and a branch of a pomegranate inside a white oval in the middle.
Flag of Gilbert and Ellice Islands.svg 1932–1976 Flag of Gillbert and Ellice Islands A blue ensign defaced with the Coat of Arms of Gilbert and Ellice Islands
Flag of the Gold Coast.svg 1821–1957 Flag of the Crown colony of Gold Coast A blue ensign defaced with an elephant and the letters GC under the feet of the elephant all inside a disc
Flag of British Heligoland.svg 1807–1890 Flag of Heligoland The flag of Heligoland with The Union Jack
Flag of Hong Kong 1871.png 1870–1873 Flag of the Crown colony of Hong Kong A blue ensign defaced with the letters HK and a royal crown in a white disc
Flag of Hong Kong (1876-1910).png 1876–1910 Flag of Hong Kong A blue ensign defaced with the Colonial Badge of Hong Kong
Flag of Hong Kong 1910.png 1910 – 1941,
1945 – 1959
Flag of Hong Kong A blue ensign defaced with the Colonial Badge of Hong Kong
Flag of Hong Kong 1959.svg 1959–1997 Flag of Hong Kong A blue ensign defaced with the Coat of Arms of Hong Kong in a white disc
Flag of Hong Kong 1959.svg Before July 1, 1997 Flag of Hong Kong A Blue ensign with the British lion holding the Pearl of the Orient standing on the crest on top of Victoria Island (Hong Kong island)with the Coat of Arms of British Hong Kong
Flag of Hong Kong 1959 (unofficial Red Ensign).svg Late 1980s – 1997 Unofficial merchant ensign of Hong Kong A red ensign defaced with the Coat of Arms of Hong Kong in a white disc
British Raj Red Ensign.svg 1858–1947 Flag of the Indian Empire A red ensign defaced with the shield of the Order of the Star of India
Flag of Imperial India.svg 1858–1947 British Indian Blue Ensign A Blue ensign with the Star of India, used as the naval flag
Flag of the United States of the Ionian Islands.svg 1815–1864 Flag of the United States of the Ionian Islands A blue ensign defaced with the shield of the symbol of Mark the Evangelist (symbol of the Republic of Venice)
Flag of Jamaica (1875-1906).svg 1875–1906 Colonial flag of Jamaica A British Blue Ensign defaced with the Coat of arms of Colonial Jamaica within a white circle
Flag of Jamaica (1906-1957).svg 1906–1957 Colonial flag of Jamaica A British Blue Ensign defaced with the Coat of arms of Colonial Jamaica within a white circle
Flag of Jamaica (1957-1962).svg 1957–1962 Colonial flag of Jamaica A British Blue Ensign defaced with the Coat of arms of Colonial Jamaica within a white circle
Flag of Jamaica (1962).svg 1962 Colonial flag of Jamaica A British Blue Ensign defaced with the Coat of arms of Colonial Jamaica within a white circle
Flag of British East Africa.svg 1920–1963 Flag of Crown colony of Kenya A blue ensign defaced with a red rampant lion
Flag of the British Colony of Labuan (1912-1946).svg 1912–1946 Flag of the Crown Colony of Labuan. A blue ensign defaced with a ship.
Flag of Malacca (1946-1957).svg 1946–1957 Flag of the Crown Colony of Malacca A blue ensign defaced with A Famosa motif.
Flag of the Federated Malay States (1895 - 1946).svg 1946–1948 Flag of the Federated Malay States The flag was striped horizontally with an overall 1:2 to ratio with white stripe at the top, red, yellow and black at the bottom. In the centre was a white oblong, with a horizontal major axis, and a Malayan tiger (Malay: [Harimau Malaya] Error: {{Lang}}: text has italic markup (help)) leaping, face to the left
19th Century Flag of Malta.svg c. 1814 – 1875 Colonial flag of Malta A red ensign defaced with a white St George's cross, but no badge
Flag of Malta (1875-1898).svg 1875–1898 Colonial flag of Malta A blue ensign defaced with the Coat of arms of Malta in a white disc
Flag of Malta (1898-1923).svg 1898–1923 Colonial flag of Malta A blue ensign defaced with the Coat of arms of Malta in a white disc
Flag of Malta (1923-1943).svg 1923–1943 Colonial flag of Malta A blue ensign defaced with the Coat of arms of Malta
Flag of Malta (1943-1964).svg 1943–1964 Colonial flag of Malta A blue ensign defaced with the Coat of arms of Malta in a white disc
Blue ensign of mauritius 1906-1923.gif 1906–1923 Flag of the Dominion of Mauritius A Blue Ensign defaced with the Coat of arms of Mauritius in a white disc
Flag of Mauritius 1923.svg 1923–1968 Flag of the Dominion of Mauritius A Blue Ensign defaced with the Coat of arms of Mauritius
Flag of Iraq (1921–1959).svg 1924–1959 Flag of the British Mandate of Mesopotamia Flag of the Kingdom of Iraq
Flag of the Mosquito Coast 1834-1860.svg 1834–1860 Flag of the Mosquito Coast protectorate Union jack, prominent over the top quarter closest to the flag mast. The field of the flag is composed of ten horizontal stripes in blue and white alternatively.
BlueEnsignNatal.png 1843–1910 Flag of the Colony of Natal A Blue Ensign defaced with the shield-of-arms of the colony of Natal
Dominion of Newfoundland Blue Ensign, 1870–1904.svg 1610–1904 Flag of Newfoundland Colony A blue ensign defaced with a seal of the crown and underwritten is "Terra Nova"
Dominion of Newfoundland Blue Ensign.svg 1870–1931 Civil and Naval flag of the Dominion of Newfoundland A Blue ensign defaced with the Great Seal of Newfoundland, primarily civil and naval use
Dominion of Newfoundland Red Ensign.svg 1907 – 1931 (used as Civil Ensign until 1965) Flag of the Dominion of Newfoundland A red ensign defaced with the Great Seal of Newfoundland. Used as a civil ensign until 1965
New Hebrides 1953.gif 1953–1980 Flag of New Hebrides A Blue Ensign defaced with a crown surrounded by the words New Hebrides inside a white disk
Flag of British Colonial Nigeria.svg 1800–1960 Flag of the Crown colony of Nigeria A blue ensign defaced with the shield-of-arms of the colonial Nigeria
Flag of the Southern Nigeria Protectorate.svg 1900–1914 Flag of the Southern Nigeria Protectorate A Blue Ensign defaced with the shield-of-arms of the Southern Nigeria Protectorate in a green disc.
Flag of North Borneo.svg 1882–1948 Flag of North Borneo A blue ensign defaced with the badge of North Borneo Chartered Company.
Flag of North Borneo (Civil Ensign).svg Civil ensign of North Borneo A red ensign defaced with the badge of North Borneo Chartered Company.
Flag of North Borneo 1948-1963.png 1946–1963 Flag of the Crown Colony of North Borneo A blue ensign defaced with the new badge of Crown Colony of North Borneo.
Flag of Northern Rhodesia (1939-1953).svg 1939 – 1953,
1963 – 1964
Flag of Northern Rhodesia A blue ensign defaced with the shield-of-arms of Northern Rhodesia
Flag of Nyasaland (1919-1964).svg.svg 1907 – 1953,
1963 – 1964
Flag of Nyasaland A blue ensign defaced with the shield-of-arms of Nyasaland
Flag of Orange River Colony.svg 1900–1910 Flag of the Orange River Colony A blue ensign defaced with a springbok antelope in a disc
Palestine-Mandate-Ensign-1927-1948.svg 1927–1948 Ensign of the British Mandate of Palestine A red ensign defaced with the word Palestine inside a white disc, for use by ships registered in the territory. The Union Jack was used as the general land flag of the mandate.
Flag of the Territory of Papua.svg 1906–1949 Flag of the Territory of Papua A blue ensign defaced with a crown and the word Papua underneath inside a white disc
Flag of Penang (1946-1949).svg 1946–1949 Flag of the Crown Colony of Penang A blue ensign defaced with the pre-1985 lesser arms of Penang.
Flag of Saint Christopher-Nevis-Anguilla.svg 1958–1983 Flag of Saint Christopher-Nevis-Anguilla A blue ensign defaced with the emblem of Saint Christopher-Nevis-Anguilla
Missing Blue Ensign.svg 1875–1939 Flag of Saint Lucia A blue ensign defaced with the Coat of arms of Saint Lucia
Flag of Saint Lucia (1939-1967).svg 1939–1967 Flag of Saint Lucia A blue ensign defaced with the Coat of arms of Saint Lucia
St Vincent colonial flag.png Until 1979 Flag of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines A blue ensign defaced with the Coat of arms of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Blue flag of colonial Samoa.gif 1922–1962 Flag of Samoa A Blue Ensign defaced with three palm trees encircled.
1922–1962 Flag of Samoa A Red Ensign defaced with three palm trees encircled. Used at sea.
Flag of Seychelles 1903-1961.gif 1903–1961 Flag of Seychelles A Blue Ensign defaced with a palm tree and a tortoise aside encircled
Flag of Seychelles 1961-1976.gif 1961–1976 Flag of Seychelles A Blue Ensign defaced with the legend "Seychelles" on top a palm tree and a tortoise below encircled
Flag of Sierra Leone (1889–1914).png 1889–1914 Flag of Sierra Leone A Blue Ensign defaced with an elephant and the initials S.L. encircled.
Flag of Sierra Leone 1916-1961.gif 1916–1961 Flag of Sierra Leone A Blue Ensign defaced with the Coat of arms of Sierra Leone inside a white disc.
Flag of British Somaliland (1903-1950).png 1903–1950 Flag of the British Somaliland A Blue Ensign defaced with a Kudu inside a white disk.
Flag of British Somaliland (1950-60).png 1950–1960 Flag of the British Somaliland A blue ensign defaced with the shield of arms of the British Somaliland
South Africa Flag 1910-1912.svg 1910–1912 Flag of the Union of South Africa A red ensign defaced with the shield-of-arms of the Union of South Africa
South Africa Flag 1912-1928.svg 1912–1928 Flag of the Union of South Africa A red ensign defaced with the shield-of-arms of the Union of South Africa inside a white disc.
Flag of South Africa 1928-1994.svg 1928–1961 Flag of the Union of South Africa Variation of the flag of the Dutch East India Company at the Cape (without the VOC logo in the centre) from 1652 until 1795, with three smaller flags centred in the white stripe. The smaller flags were the Union Jack towards the hoist, the Orange Free State Vierkleur hanging vertically and the Transvaal Vierkleur towards the fly. This flag continued to be used by the Republic of South Africa until 1994.
Flag of Southern Rhodesia.svg 1923–1953 Flag of Southern Rhodesia A blue ensign defaced with the shield-of-arms of Southern Rhodesia
Flag of the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland.svg 1953–1963 Flag of the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland A blue ensign defaced with the shield-of-arms of Rhodesia and Nyasaland
Flag of Rhodesia (1964).svg 1964–1968 Flag of Rhodesia A light blue ensign defaced with the shield-of-arms of Southern Rhodesia
Flag of the Crown Colony of Sarawak (1946).svg 1946–1963 Flag of the Crown Colony of Sarawak A blue ensign defaced with the shield-of-arms of Sarawak.
Flag of the British Straits Settlements (1874-1942).svg 1874–1942 Flag of the British Straits Settlements A blue ensign defaced with a white disc containing three gold crown; separated with a red inverted pall, which looks like an inverted Y
Flag of Singapore (1946-1959).svg 1946–1959 Flag of the Crown Colony of Singapore A blue ensign defaced with a white disc containing a crown within a red inverted pall, which looks like an inverted Y.
Flag of Anglo-Egyptian Sudan.svg 1922–1956 Flag of Anglo-Egyptian Sudan The Flag of the Kingdom of Egypt and the Union Jack aside.
Flag of Tanganyika (1919-1961).svg 1919–1961 Flag of Tanganyika A red ensign defaced with the head of a giraffe in a white disc
Flag of Jordan.svg 1921–1946 Flag of Transjordan (British Mandate of Jordan) Flag of the Emirate of Transjordan
Transvaal Colony Flag.png 1900–1910 Flag of Transvaal A blue ensign defaced with a disc showing a lion lying on an African plain with palm trees.
Trinidad colonial 1889-1958.gif 1889–1962 Colonial flag of Trinidad & Tobago A blue ensign defaced with a circular badge depicting a ship arriving in front of a mountain
Flag of Tuvalu (1976-1978).svg 1976–1978 Colonial flag of Tuvalu A blue ensign defaced with a circular badge with a hut and the motto of Tuvalu
Flag of the Trucial States.svg 1820–1971 Flag of the Trucial States Flag of the Trucial States
Flag of the Uganda Protectorate.svg 1914–1962 Flag of Uganda A blue ensign defaced with a grey crowned crane inside a disc
British Weihaiwei flag.svg 1903–1930 Flag of Weihaiwei A Blue Ensign defaced with two birds by a pond inside a disc.
Flag of the West Indies Federation.svg 1958–1962 Flag of the West Indies Federation It has four equally-spaced narrow white stripes with a large orange-gold disc over the middle two lines in the centre of the flag, undulating horizontally across a blue field
Flag of Zanzibar Under British Rule.svg 1896–1963 Flag of Zanzibar A red flag used during the British protectorate.

Royal standards

Flag Date Use Description
Royal Standard of England.svg 1198–1340 Royal Banner of King Richard I Gules, three lions passant regardant in pale or.
Royal Standard of England (1406-1340).svg 1340–1406 Royal Banner of King Edward III The Coat of Arms of England quartered with the Royal Standard of France, the Fleur-de-lis representing the English claim to the French throne.
Royal Standard of England (1406-1603).svg 1406–1603 Royal Banner of King Henry IV The French quartering has been altered to three fleurs-de-lys.
Royal Standard of Great Britain (1603-1649).svg 1603 – 1649,
1660 – 1689,
1702 – 1707
Royal Standard of the House of Stuart, used first by James VI and I A banner of the Royal Coat of Arms of James I, first and fourth quarters representing England and the English claim to the French throne, second quarter representing Scotland, third quarter representing Ireland (This is the first time that Ireland has been represented on the Royal Standard).
Royal Standard of Great Britain (1689-1702).svg 1689–1702 Royal Standard of King William III and II A banner of the Royal Coat of Arms of William III, first and fourth quarters representing England and the English claim to the French throne, second quarter representing Scotland, third quarter representing Ireland, with an inescutcheon for the House of Nassau.
Royal Standard of Great Britain (1707-1714).svg 1707–1714 Royal Standard of the House of Stuart, under Queen Anne after the Acts of Union A banner of the Royal Coat of Arms of Queen Anne, first and fourth quarters representing (newly unified) England and Scotland, second quarter representing the (English) claim to the French throne, third quarter representing Ireland.
Royal Standard of the United Kingdom (1714–1801).svg 1714–1800 Royal Standard of Great Britain under the House of Hanover from 1714 to 1800.
Royal Standard of the United Kingdom 1801-1816.svg 1801–1816 Royal Standard of the United Kingdom from 1801 to 1814. A banner of the Royal Arms from the creation of the United Kingdom on 1 January 1801; first and fourth quarters for England and Wales, second Scotland, third Ireland, with an inescutcheon for the Electorate of Hanover.
Royal Standard of the United Kingdom (1816–1837).svg 1816–1837 Royal Standard of the House of Hanover from 1814 to 1837 The Royal Arms after Hanover had become a kingdom.

Members of the Royal Family

Flag Date Use Description
Royal Standard of Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother.svg 1936–2002 Standard of Queen Elizabeth, consort of George VI The Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom impaled with the Arms of the Earl of Strathmore: ("bows" and "lions")
Royal Standard of Mary of Teck, Queen Consort.svg 1910–1953 Standard of Queen Mary, consort of George V The Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom impaled with the Arms of Prince Francis, Duke of Teck (the Queen's father) and Prince Adolphus, Duke of Cambridge (the Queen's maternal grandfather)
Royal Standard of Alexandra of Denmark, Queen Consort.svg 1901–1928 Standard of Queen Alexandra, consort of Edward VII The Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom impaled with the Arms of the King of Denmark.
Royal Standard of Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon.svg 1944–2002 Standard of Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon The Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom with a three-point label, first and third labels bearing a Tudor rose, the second label bearing a thistle proper.
Royal Standard of Princess Alice, Countess of Athlone.svg 1917–1981 Standard of Princess Alice, Countess of Athlone The Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom with a five-point label, the first, second, fourth and fifth labels bearing a red heart, the third label bearing a red cross.

Welsh Royal Standards

Flag Date Use Description
Glyndwr's Banner.svg 1401–1416 Banner adopted by Owain Glyndŵr and thought to be derived from the counter-charged arms of the princely Houses of Mathrafal and Dinefwr. It is in use by the National Eisteddfod for Wales, Cymdeithas yr iaith and widely amongst independentist groups Quarterly Or and Gules, four Lions rampant counter-charged
Flag of Gwynedd.png c. 1195 – 1378 Banner of the princely House of Aberffraw and the Kingdom of Gwynedd famously used by Llywelyn the Great, Llywelyn ap Gruffudd and Owain Lawgoch. The Prince of Wales uses a version of this flag today emblazoned with a Crown on a green shield Quarterly Or and Gules, four Lions passant guardant counter-charged langued and armed Azur
Flag of Powys.svg c. 1100 – c. 1400 Banner of the princely House of Mathrafal used during the early Middle Ages by the rulers of Powys, Powys Wenwynwyn and later by their heirs the de la Pole (Powysian) dynasty. Modern use is rare Or a Lion rampant Gules langued and armed Azure
Flag of Deheubarth.svg c. 1100 – c. 1300 Banner of the princely House of Dinefwr and the Kingdom of Deheubarth, a realm which covered much of south Wales. The banner would have been used during the early Middle Ages and later by the Talbot dynasty who inherited the arms. Modern use is rare Gules a Lion rampant Or, a border engrailed of the last
Alternative Flag of Gwynedd.svg c. 1240 – 1282 Banner of the personal arms of Llywelyn ap Gruffudd Argent three Lions passant Gules
Flag of Powys Fadog.svg c. 1160 – c. 1350 Banner of Madog ap Gruffudd Maelor, and later the Banner of Powys Fadog Argent a Lion rampant Sable langued and armed Gules

Battle flags

Flag Date Use Description
Draig aur.gif c. 1400 – 1416 Banner known as the Y Ddraig Aur or "Golden Dragon" which has ancient origins. It was famously raised over Caernarvon during the Battle of Tuthill in 1401 by Owain Glyndŵr Argent a dragon rampant Or
Eureka Flag.svg c. 1854 Eureka Jack, reportedly flown by the besieged rebels at the Eureka Stockade as a second battle flag on 3 December 1854, in Ballarat, Victoria, Australia. Undefaced Union Jack.

Governor's flags

Flag Date Use Description
Standard of the Governor of Antigua and Barbuda 1967-1981.svg 1967–1981 Flag used by the British Governor of Antigua and Barbuda A Union Jack defaced with the Coat of arms of Antigua and Barbuda.
Flag of the Governor of Hong Kong.svg 1845–1959 Flag flown on Government House, Hong Kong and the Governor's official car during British rule A Union Jack defaced with the then Colonial Badge of Hong Kong
Flag of the Governor of Hong Kong.svg 1959–1997 Flag flown on Government House, Hong Kong and the Governor's official car during British rule A Union Jack defaced with the then Coat of arms of Hong Kong
Flag of the Governor-General of India (1885–1947).svg 1855–1947 Flag used by the British Governors-General, Governors, Lieutenant Governors, Chief Commissioners and other British officers in India A Union Jack defaced with the Star of India surmounted by the Tudor Crown.
Governor Ceylon.gif 1875–1948 Flag used by the British Governor of Ceylon A Union Jack defaced with the Coat of arms of Ceylon.
Flag of the Governor of Jamaica (1875-1906).svg 1875–1906 Flag of the Governor of Jamaica A Union Jack defaced with the Badge of Colonial Jamaica
Flag of the Governor of Jamaica (1906-1957).svg 1906–1957 Flag of the Governor of Jamaica A Union Jack defaced with the Badge of Colonial Jamaica
Flag of the Governor of Jamaica (1957-1962).svg 1957–1962 Flag of the Governor of Jamaica A Union Jack defaced with the Badge of Colonial Jamaica
Flag of the Governor of Jamaica (1962).svg 1962 Flag of the Governor of Jamaica A Union Jack defaced with the Badge of Colonial Jamaica
Flag of the Governor of Northern Ireland.svg Until 1973 Personal flag of the Governor of Northern Ireland A Union Jack defaced with the Coat of arms of Northern Ireland
Flag of the Lieutenant-Governor of Nova Scotia.svg 1929 on Personal flag of the Lieutenant-Governor of Nova Scotia A Union Jack defaced with the shield of the Arms of Her Majesty in Right of Nova Scotia surrounded by a circle of 18 green maple leaves.
Flag of the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland.svg 1921–1922 Flag of the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland A Union Flag defaced with an Irish Harp
Flag of Governor of Mauritius (1906-1968).svg 1906–1968 Flag of the Governor of Mauritius A Union Jack defaced with the Badge of Colonial Mauritus
Flag of the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario (1959-1965).svg 1959–1965 Flag of the Lieutenant-Governor of Ontario The Canadian Red Ensign defaced by a disk bearing the shield of the Arms of Ontario surrounded by a chain of green maple leaves.
Seychelles Governor's flag 1903-1961.gif 1903–1961 Flag of the Governor of Seychelles A Union Jack defaced with the Badge of Colonial Seychelles
Seychelles Governor's flag 1961-1976.gif 1961–1976 Flag of the Governor of Seychelles A Union Jack defaced with the Badge of Colonial Seychelles
Flag of the Governor-General of the Anglo-Egyptian Sudan.svg 1922–1956 Flag of the Governor-General of the Sudan A Union Flag defaced with a white disk surrounded by a wreath of laurel. As no badge or coat of arms existed for Anglo-Egyptian Sudan, the disk instead contained the words "GOVERNOR GENERAL OF THE SUDAN..
Flag of the Governor-General of South Africa (1931-1953).svg 1931-1953 Flag of the Governor-General of the Union of South Africa A blue flag with a Crown and a lion on top of the Tudor Crown with the name of the Union of South Africa in English on top and in Afrikaans on bottom.
Flag of the Governor-General of South Africa (1953-1961).svg 1953–1961 Flag of the Governor-General of the Union of South Africa Similar to the previous flag, but with St. Edward's Crown instead of the Tudor Crown.
British Resident of Zanzibar flag (1955-1963).svg 1955–1963 Flag of the British Resident of Zanzibar A Union Jack defaced with Coat of arms of British Resident of Zanzibar

Others

Flag Date Use Description
British East India Company flag.svg 1600–1858 Flag of the English/British East India Company Numerous white and red stripes with the St George's Cross in the canton, the number of stripes was not determined.
Flag of the British East India Company (1707).svg 1707–1800 Flag of the British East India Company Numerous white and red stripes with the Union Jack of Great Britain in the canton. Accepted to be one of the inspirations for the Grand Union Flag that eventually evolved into the Flag of the United States.
Flag of the British East India Company (1801).svg 1801–1858 Flag of the British East India Company Numerous white and red stripes with the Union Jack of the United Kingdom in the canton.
Hudsons Bay Company Flag.svg Flag of the Hudson's Bay Company A Red Ensign defaced with the initials of the company.
Flag of BSAC edit.svg 1889–1961 Flag of the British South Africa Company A Union Jack with the logo of the British South Africa Company in the middle.
BSAC Blue ensign.svg 1889–1961 Ensign of the British South Africa Company A Blue Ensign defaced with the Symbol of the British South Africa Company
Flag of the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland.svg 1801–1922 Flag of the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland The Union Jack defaced with the Coat of Arms of Ireland.
Green Ensign (1701).svg Circa 1701 – post 1800 Green Ensign An unofficial merchant navy flag consisting of a green field with an earlier version of the golden harp and the Flag of England in the canton, no record of its actual use.
Green Ensign.svg Post 1800 – c. 1922 Green Ensign An unofficial merchant navy flag consisting of green field with golden harp and the Union Jack in the canton, no record of its actual use.

Images for kids

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Anexo:Banderas británicas para niños

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List of British flags Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.