Flying the Union Flag is a simple way to show pride, but many people are unsure about the rules. The good news is that proper etiquette is straightforward once you know the basics. This guide explains how to display the Union Flag respectfully, from getting the orientation right to understanding where it should sit when flown alongside other flags.
Whether the flag is being flown at home, outside a business, or during a public event, a few key conventions help ensure it is treated with dignity. Below is a practical, easy-to-read overview based on established UK flag protocol.
What is the Union Flag?
The national flag of the United Kingdom is the Union Flag, often also called the Union Jack. Its design brings together the crosses of St George, St Andrew and St Patrick, reflecting the history of the nations within the Union. The current version dates from 1801, and because of its asymmetrical design, it can be displayed the wrong way up. According to UK protocol, the flag is recognised by long-established custom and practice rather than a specific Flag Act.
Union Full Mast gold finial bob weight
The two most important Union Flag etiquette rules
1. The Union Flag should always be displayed in a dignified way.
It should not appear in a position of lesser importance than another national flag, and it should never be used casually as a table covering, seat cover, or draped across barriers and platforms.
2. It should also be kept clean and in good condition.
Flying a damaged, faded or soiled flag is considered disrespectful. When a flag is no longer fit for display, it should be disposed of in a respectful and dignified manner.
When and how to fly the Union Flag
In the UK, the Union Flag may be flown on any day of the year. Government buildings are encouraged to fly it regularly, and private individuals can also display it without needing permission in most cases, although flagpole rules may still apply.
Flags are usually flown from sunrise to sunset. They can also be flown at night, provided they are properly illuminated.
When raising and lowering the flag, a respectful approach matters. It should be hoisted smartly and lowered carefully, without letting it touch the ground.
Before flying the flag, check that it is clean, untorn and correctly attached. Small details like this make a big difference to respectful presentation.
If the aim is purely decorative rather than ceremonial, bunting or other lower-status decorative flags are usually a better choice than using the Union Flag loosely or informally.
Position of honour: flying the Union Flag with other flags
When displayed with other flags, the Union Flag normally takes the position of honour. In the UK order of precedence, Royal Standards come first, followed by the Union Flag, then the host nation flag, other national flags, and then regional or local flags.
If the Union Flag is flown with the flags of other nations, each flag should be the same size or at least the same width, and each should be flown from a separate flagpole of equal height wherever possible. As a rule, the senior British national flag should be raised first and lowered last, unless all flags are moved together.
England and Union Flags with flagpole on rooftop
What are the common mistakes to avoid?
The most common mistakes are flying the flag upside down, displaying it when it is worn or dirty, or placing it in an inferior position next to another flag. Keep those basics in mind and you will be following the spirit of Union Flag etiquette: simple, respectful and dignified.
How to tell if the Union Jack Flag is Upsidedown
In the half of the flag nearest the flagpole, the wider white diagonal stripe should sit above the red diagonal stripe. If that wider white stripe is below the red one, the flag is inverted.
