A well-chosen print can feel personal, thoughtful and lasting. It can celebrate a name, honour family history and add character to a room. Therefore, many people choose surname history prints for birthdays, weddings and anniversaries. We’ve been told often that our gifts offer something for everyone, especially people that are hard to buy for. Music to our ears as we aim to have a selection of gifts for every taste and pocket.

At Hall of Names, our printed gifts collection has become one of our most loved ranges. Many visitors search for a family crest gift. Historically, coats of arms belonged to individuals. And therefore, our prints feature the earliest historically recorded coat of arms associated with a bearer of the surname.

Why Printed Gifts Still Matter

In a digital world, printed gifts often feel more meaningful. They are made to be seen each day, rather than stored away in a drawer. As a result, they continue to bring enjoyment long after the occasion has passed.

A framed surname history print can hang proudly in a hallway, study or living room. It often becomes a talking point when guests visit. It may also inspire conversations about family stories, places and traditions. Plus you can order online, or pop in to see us at our Dunster shop and we can print your scroll while you wait! Dunster is looking particularly glorious at the moment.

Unlike many short-lived presents, a quality print has staying power. It becomes part of the home and part of the memories made there. That said, our prints can also be emailed in digital format – perfect for those living outside of the UK or for customers wishing to print out copies of their own. Just select your desired option from the dropdown menu.

Our Most Popular Family Crest Gifts

Our Prints & Scrolls collection includes several styles to suit different homes and tastes.

Framed Surname History Prints

These remain our bestselling option. Each print includes surname history details and a historically recorded heraldic design linked to the surname.

Customers can choose from oak, antique gold, black or dark and gold frames. Oak offers a warm, classic look. Gold feels elegant and traditional. Black suits modern interiors beautifully. The dark frame with gold inlay always remains a popular choice, and is our best-seller.

Unframed Scroll Prints

Some customers prefer flexibility. An unframed scroll allows the recipient to choose their own frame style later. It also makes gifting and posting simple. Plus of course it only costs £24.99.

Double Coat of Arms Prints

These designs are especially popular for weddings and anniversaries. Two surnames appear together in one personalised print, creating a thoughtful keepsake for couples. View the double coat of arms print here.

Family Crest Gifts for Life’s Important Moments

Family crest gifts work well for many occasions because they feel personal and considered.

Popular choices include:

• birthdays
• weddings
• anniversaries
• retirements
• housewarmings
• Christmas gifts

Because each print is linked to a surname, it often feels more meaningful than a standard present.

Why They Create Lasting Memories

Many gifts are enjoyed once and then forgotten. A framed print is different because it remains visible every day. It can mark a wedding date, celebrate a family name or remind someone of their roots.

Years later, people often remember who gave it to them and why. That is what turns a present into a memory. And, fro a small extra fee, you can add your own wording to a print. For example, if you are giving it to commemorate the achievements of a friend or loved one, you could include their details. Or you might wish to include a special person and a significant date. The possibilities are endless.

Visit Hall of Names

Hall of Names holds records for over one million surnames. We also welcome visitors to our shop in Dunster, where many designs can be viewed in person. Dunster is a beautiful medieval village within the beautiful countryside of West Somerset, on the doorstep of Exmoor. View the Dunster website here.

If you would like to explore symbols and meanings, visit our Heraldry Meanings Dictionary.

If you are searching for family crest gifts with real meaning, browse our printed collection online or visit us in Dunster.

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We’re nearly there — and getting excited! Our new Hall of Names shop in Dunster is almost ready to open its doors. We couldn’t be more grateful for the welcome we’ve already received from the local community.

We’ve met fellow shopkeepers and passers-by. And the friendly spirit of Dunster has made these final stages of setting up feel extra special. As a family-run business rooted in West Somerset, it’s great to feel part of this thriving village. We are at the end of High Street on the traffic lights on the corner.

Local Support, Local Craftsmanship

It’s been a real team effort getting the shop ready. Our stock has arrived, the fixtures and fittings are nearly complete. And we’re now putting the finishing touches to the display. One of those is our brand-new counter sign. It reads: “Welcome to the Home of Personalised Gifts.” (View our personalised gift categories)

Our external and internal signage was designed in-house by Jo and created by the brilliant Dan at Somerset Sign and Print Co. — a local business we were proud to support, as we always try to source locally whenever possible.

And speaking of family help, Wendy’s retired dad has been involved too. He’s been building our beautiful new counter top, which is now the heart of the shop.

A Village That Already Feels Like Home

We’re not even open yet, and already Dunster feels like home. We’ve had so many kind conversations with local residents and shop owners as we’ve been moving in — and we’d especially like to thank those who’ve had patience while we’ve unloaded “bits and bobs” into the space! We have had so many materials, supplies and stock to sort out but we are nearly there!

We’re also grateful to the lovely team at the local parish magazine. They have kindly helped us distribute introductory postcards to villagers. This is a small way for us to introduce what Hall of Names is all about and feel connected.

Rooted in Local Life

This will be our first bricks-and-mortar shop in Dunster. But Hall of Names has long been part of the West Somerset community. We’re proud sponsors of the Williton Rockets football team, who proudly wear our name on their shirts. And we’re passionate about celebrating local names, families, and histories. Come and see a few of them displayed in the shop when we finally open!

Once open, we’ll offer everything from:

• Surname history scrolls
• Hand-painted shields
• Crystal and glass giftware
• Bookmarks, keyrings and other small keepsakes

Every item features the earliest historically recorded coat of arms associated with a bearer of the surname. These are based on our exclusive database of over one million names.

A Proud Addition to Dunster’s High Street

We’re thrilled to soon be joining a high street full of independent character and variety. Whether you’re browsing for antiques, local art, handcrafted gifts, or simply treating yourself in one of the tea rooms, Dunster has something for everyone.

You can discover many of these fantastic local businesses on the Dunster shop listings page. It offers a helpful overview of where to go and what to explore during your visit. Plus there are also helpful links.

We’re proud to be adding our own unique touch to this thriving village. We’ll offer surname history gifts that celebrate the past while creating something personal for the present.

See You at the Dunster Winter Festival?

We might not be open just yet — but we’ll certainly be celebrating at the upcoming Dunster Winter Festival! Taking place this December, the festival promises medieval fun, food and festivities. The photograph below was taken by Nina Dodd of our neighbouring shop Dunster Living.

If you spot someone in a full suit of armour, don’t be surprised — it might just be Wendy’s son Toby. We hope he can be persuaded to dress for the occasion! Fancy a selfie with a knight? You’ll know where to find us.

Not Long Now…

We’re on the home straight. And we can’t wait to open our doors and welcome you into our world of coats of arms, surname histories, and meaningful gifts.

Whether you’re local or visiting, we hope you’ll pop in and say hello. We’re excited to help you explore the story behind your name — and to be part of Dunster’s rich and welcoming community. Now wish us luck unpacking some of our stock!

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