Growing up, I had a 'Grandma' and a 'Grandad' (and a Bunica and Bunicul). Nothing unusual there. But one of my mates had a 'Nanny Babs' and a 'Gramps,' which, to my young mind, sounded like the names of sitcom characters rather than actual people.
It got me thinking—how do we end up with these names for our grandparents? And of course, because my ADHD brain couldn't leave it there... do they follow trends like baby names do?
As it turns out, they do!
A new survey from Legal & General has uncovered the most popular grandparent names across the UK, and just like with baby names, there are clear regional favourites.
So, if you've been calling your grandad 'Pops' and wondering if you're alone, you're not. Let's break it down.
Table of Contents
The Most Popular Grandparent Names in the UK
For Grandmothers:
- Grandma is the UK's top choice, used by 27% of respondents.
- Nan (16%) and Nanna (15%) are close behind.
- Regional variations:
- Scotland favours Gran (32%).
- In Belfast, Granny is the standout choice (48%).
- The West Midlands prefers Nan (29%).
For Grandfathers:
- Grandad is the dominant name, with 47% of Brits using it.
- Grandpa is the second most popular at 16%, though more common in:
- Greater London (28%).
- Among Gen Z, who are more likely to use 'Grandpa' or even the more formal 'Grandfather' (11%).
- The East Midlands and East of England are strongholds for Grandad, with 56% and 55% using it, respectively.
Why Do We Call Grandparents What We Do?
Like baby names, grandparent names tend to be influenced by tradition, where you grew up, and ultimately, personal choice.
- Tradition Matters: 45% of Millennials say they stick to traditional names to honour family customs. In Northern Ireland, this jumps to 62%.
- Ease of Pronunciation: In Birmingham (26%) and Manchester (25%), the ability for young children to say the name is a major factor.
- Personal Choice: Londoners (29%) are the most likely to let grandparents pick their own title—whether that's 'Grandfather,' 'Pop-Pop,' or something completely unexpected.
Are Grandparent Names Changing?
Much like baby names evolve over time (no one's giving their baby boy the name 'Gary' these days), grandparent names seem to be shifting too.
- Younger generations are leaning towards Grandpa or even Grandfather in some regions.
- Some families are opting for more playful or unique alternates—because why be 'Grandma' when you could be 'Gigi' or 'Nanny Bubbles'?
Grand Finale: What Will You Be Called?
Despite some shifts, traditional grandparent names are still going strong.
55% of Brits prefer a classic title, and in Newcastle, it's even higher at 66%. But as new generations become grandparents, we might start hearing more creative alternatives.
So, what do your kids call their grandparents? Or, if you're thinking long-term—what do you want to be called one day? Let me know in the comments!
