Royal mail cages

You're referring to the iconic Royal Mail cages!

The Royal Mail cages, also known as pillar boxes or post boxes, are a distinctive feature of the United Kingdom's postal system. They are designed to collect mail from the public and are typically found on streets, in villages, and in towns across the country.

Here are some interesting facts about Royal Mail cages:

  1. Design and construction: The first pillar box was designed by Sir Henry Cole, a British inventor and artist, in 1852. The design has undergone several changes over the years, but the classic red color and cylindrical shape have remained largely unchanged.
  2. Red color: The iconic red color of Royal Mail cages was introduced in 1874 to make them more visible and to distinguish them from other types of mailboxes.
  3. Size and shape: The standard size of a Royal Mail cage is about 3 feet (90 cm) tall and 1 foot (30 cm) wide. They come in various shapes, including cylindrical, hexagonal, and octagonal.
  4. Capacity: Royal Mail cages typically have a capacity of around 20-30 letters and 10-15 parcels.
  5. Collection frequency: Mail is collected from Royal Mail cages daily, Monday to Saturday, although the frequency of collection may vary depending on the location and volume of mail.
  6. Security: Royal Mail cages are designed to be secure, with a hinged lid that can be locked to prevent theft or tampering.
  7. Historic significance: Royal Mail cages are an important part of British history and culture, with many vintage models still in use today.
  8. Variations: Over the years, Royal Mail has introduced special edition cages to commemorate significant events, such as the Queen's Golden Jubilee or the London 2012 Olympics.
  9. Maintenance: Royal Mail cages are regularly maintained and cleaned to ensure they remain in good condition and continue to serve the public.
  10. Iconic status: Royal Mail cages have become an iconic symbol of the UK's postal service, with many people recognizing them as a symbol of British culture and tradition.

I hope you found these facts interesting!