We have a lot to thank the Ancient Greeks for.
Western philosophy and democracy are the biggies of course, but they also invented things like umbrellas, alarm clocks, vending machines - and door knockers.
Yes, the knocker on front doors up and down the country can trace its origins back to some 3000 years ago when wealthy Athenians would furnish their entrances with one so that callers could announce themselves.
Proving that a good idea never really goes out of fashion, door knockers have been a fixture on doors ever since - even with smart doorbells as part of many home security setups today. They may be an unassuming piece of door furniture now, but in Georgian times, a door knocker would signify the class, wealth and often, the profession, of those who resided behind it.
Many themes and designs remain popular today. The ‘Doctor’ door knocker looks like a cupboard handle and loudly clatters when released, making it good for raising emergencies.
Meanwhile, lion heads, a long-established emblem for England, were popular as brass renditions amongst the moneyed elite, denoting power, honour and protection. A glossy black version decorates one of the most famous doors in the country - No. 10 Downing Street - today.
The more elaborate the design, the fancier the owner. It’s an enduring rule that still rings true in 2024, although now there are far more options with which to decorate your front door. At varying price points and widely available, they allow anyone to bring a vintage, formal or playful touch to their front entrance.
We’ve rounded up the most stylish looks out there now for those who want to raise their kerbside appeal.
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Yorkshire Foundry Lion Head Door Knocker
Cast in solid brass in a Yorkshire foundry, this handsome lion offers the perfect traditional touch to front doors. The kit comes with a backplate, knocker and all the fixings to position him up in his new home. The purchase also comes with a wreath holder that you can swap the knocker at Christmastime, making a seamless transition between the seasons.
Buy now £199.00, NOTHS
Oliver Bonas Leopard Gold Metal Door Knocker
Move over Simba, there’s a new big cat in town. Oliver Bonas has combined two big door knocker themes - doctor and jungle cat - to create this quirky leopard look. Finished in a golden hue and etched with its characteristic markings, this knocker offers a handsome way to update your door.
Buy now £32.50, Oliver Bonas
Anthropologie Versailles Door Knocker
A ring knocker was the choice du jour for the Ancient Greeks, so why not bring things full circle with a fancy version of your own? Named for France’s most fabulous palace, this cast iron and brass Versailles design includes a beautifully etched plate to tap the ring against.
Buy now £34.00, Anthropologie
Gipsy Hill Hardware Knock-Knock Brass Door Knocker
A departure from tradition, this whimsical door knocker offers an inkling of what is possible when it comes to such designs. Resembling something out of a Lewis Carroll novel, the matching knocker and plate set things up nicely with the classic dad joke: “Knock knock”.
Buy now £169.00, Etsy
Earthly Essentials Inc Rustic Octopus Aesthetic Door Knocker
Even sea-faring folk need to return to dry land at some point, and when they do it should be to a home adorned with this beautifully made octopus knocker. The handmade piece shows stunning detail and is coated with resin, so will stand up to all weather. Some customers have even repurposed it as a towel hanger, a great idea if you’re unable to hang a traditional knocker on your front door.
Buy now £89.21, Etsy
Sophie MacBain Gold Rock On Door Knocker
Give visitors a hint of your rock ‘n’ roll leanings with this fun hand-shaped knocker. The quirky look will ensure your door stands out on the street.
Buy now £35.99, NOTHS
Dunelm Heart Gold Door Knocker
They say home is where the heart is, and that certainly rings true with this sweet knocker. Shaped like a heart and finished in a gleaming gold colour, it’s made from long-lasting cast iron and can be fitted with common screws and bolts you’ll find in any DIY shop.
Buy now £12.00, Dunelm
Oliver Bonas Bird Gold Metal Door Knocker
An elegant piece of doorstep art to hang on your door, this sweet bird-themed knocker will look as though he’s pecking at the ‘wood’ plate. Details make this design shine, from the bird’s feathers to the fine lines on the leaves. Made with pure brass and a protective coating.
Buy now £39.50, Oliver Bonas
Maher London XFORT Door Knocker with Door Viewer Polished Chrome, Victorian Style
Blending old and new, this Victorian-style urn knocker has space for a peephole so you can verify your caller’s identity after they’ve knocked. It comes with all the fixings needed to get it into position and a one-year guarantee for peace of mind.
Buy now £12.99, B&Q
Willow & Stone Brass Mythical Dragon Door Knocker
Whether you’re inspired by 2024’s Chinese zodiac creature or just enjoy the thought of something more ferocious than a lion guarding your door, this striking dragon knocker offers a taste of something very different. Made from a solid piece of brass and symbolising strength and luck, it’s a head-turner that’ll get your neighbours talking.
Buy now £192.00, Willow & Stone
Adams & Mack Ring Door Knocker – New Design
This simple design will work for a range of front door styles, whether you live in a city townhouse or a country cottage. Inspired by a willow wreath and weighing just shy of 1kg, it offers a reassuring confident knock.
Buy now £148.00, Adams & Mack
Verdict
A sign of nobility and trust for centuries, there's nothing more classic than a lion head - well, when you're talking door knockers at least. The level of craftsmanship from the Yorkshire Foundry's design speaks for itself, and the extra wreath attachment is the cherry on top.
