Police headwear in the UK is one of the most recognisable elements of a British officer’s uniform.
From the classic custodian helmet worn by male constables in England and Wales to the flat caps, and peaked caps seen in other regions and ranks, each hat has a history and purpose behind its design.
The custodian helmet, introduced in the 1860s, is a symbol of traditional British policing and is still used today on foot patrols in many urban areas.
It’s designed not just for appearance but also for practical use, offering some protection and increased visibility.
In contrast, female officers typically wear a bowler-style hat, which is sturdier than it looks and aligns with formal uniform standards.
Traffic officers and higher ranks tend to wear peaked caps, often with a chequered band known as Sillitoe tartan, which helps make police headwear easily identifiable from a distance.
In Scotland, police headwear differs slightly, with flat caps commonly worn instead of the traditional helmet.
Modern policing also includes practical alternatives like baseball caps and protective headgear for specialist roles, such as riot control or armed response.
While some forces are phasing out certain styles for cost or comfort reasons, the iconic look of the UK police officer remains a strong part of the country’s visual identity.
Whether it's seen on ceremonial occasions or during daily patrols, police headwear continues to play a functional and symbolic role in law enforcement across the UK.
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