This is what Brits really think about the Cockney accent

The Cockney accent is one of London’s most iconic and proudly working-class voices, traditionally rooted in the East End.

To be a “true” Cockney, legend has it you must be born within earshot of the Bow Bells (St Mary-le-Bow in Cheapside).

The accent emerged in the 19th century among the city’s labourers and market traders, and it evolved as a badge of community, resilience, and wit, often used to subvert authority with humour.

One of its most charming features is rhyming slang. Instead of saying stairs, you might say “apples and pears.” Phone becomes “dog and bone,” while “trouble and strife” stands in for wife.

It’s a playful, secret code, though modern Cockney slang is often shortened, so “apples” will do for stairs.

Famous Cockneys include Sir Michael Caine, whose distinctive drawl has defined countless films, and Barbara Windsor, beloved for her cheeky charm in EastEnders and the Carry On series.

Comedian Danny Dyer also flies the flag proudly, known for his no-nonsense chat and strong East End roots.

More than just a way of speaking, Cockney is a symbol of London grit, quick-witted, straight-talking, and full of character. Long may it echo round the market stalls and pub corners of the capital.

But despite its rich history and heritage, not all Brits think of Cockney rhyming slang so fondly.

According to a recent study conducted by SuomiCasino, an alarming number of Brits surveyed (24%) think the cockney accent “sounds unintelligent”.

And a whopping 22% think the cockney accent is “difficult to understand”... What a load of pony!

Thankfully, more people (26%) think it sounds “friendly”, 15% find it charming, and 9% think it’s attractive.

As for the other 91% of people who don’t find it attractive, we’d like to redirect you to Barbara Windsor, Danny Dyer, and Michael Caine, who are all bona fide sex symbols.

According to the same study, Northern Irish, Scottish, and Welsh are the most attractive British accents.

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