Hosier Lane

   1) West out of West Smithfield, at No. 24, to 7 King Street (P.O. Directory). In Farringdon Ward Without.

   First mention: "Hosiereslane," 1328 (Ct. H.W. I. 332).

   Other forms : "Hosyereslane," 1332 (ib. 379). "Hosierlane," 1365-6 (ib. II. 92).

   One house in this street has an oak beam still in use, dated 1583 (N. and Q. 11th S. vii. 249).

   There are numerous references in old records to Hosiers living here, and Stow says they gave their name to the lane.

   2) Identified with Bow Lane (q.v.).

   Earliest mention: "Hosihereslane," 1365 (Ct. H.W. II. 88).

   Other forms of name : "Hosierlane," 1394 (Cal. L. Bk. H. p. 413). "Hosyer lane," 1482 (Ct. H.W. II. 583). "Hosier Lane, alias Bowelane," 36 Eliz. (Lond. I. p.m. III. 177).

   So called of the Hosiers carrying on their trade there for a time.