When is a Phone Box Not a Phone Box?

The plain truth is that these days, in the UK at least, a phone box rarely has a phone within. They have become so iconic that many remain in situ. They’re often re-purposed as community book exchanges (Grrr. No photo!), or as a community planters – spotted in Bath with Becky herself, and Anabel, aka The Glasgow Gallivanter, who wants her own photo of it.

Also in Bath, transformed into a doodle-fest, courtesy of Sam Cox aka Mr. Doodle.

Here’s one in London that’s become a cash point.

Or, saddest of all, an un-re-purposed box that seems to serve no purpose whatever, except as a recipient of graffiti and unwanted stickers.

For Becky’s #SimplyRed.

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Author: margaret21

I'm retired and live in North Yorkshire, where I walk , write, volunteer and travel as often as I can.

56 thoughts on “When is a Phone Box Not a Phone Box?”

  9. I saw a couple during my recent travels but did not look any closer than noticing…it was more difficult to find the red post box, but as it turned out there was one close to our hotel! Sometimes things which are bright red become part of the landscape and I don’t see them because they are in plain sight….

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  10. I’ve seen a number of of book swap phone boxes, also internet access points, but never a planter – what a great idea! And I love the doodled one, though that last one is a sad sight. Hopefully someone will come up with a use for it.

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  15. Margaret, thank you for this delightful look at such a beloved symbol of British life. I especially love how communities are finding creative ways to repurpose them. From emergency defibrillators to tiny libraries, they continue to serve in the most charming and meaningful ways. A beautiful reminder that heritage can adapt without losing heart.

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  16. The box with plants growing happily out of it wins. We even have a few UK phone boxes in some backyards here in NZ, perhaps an ethereal direct line?.

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