Disappointing secret

The sign's promising, but the staircase isn't. I was very excited to see this sign at Palace House, once the gatehouse to Beaulieu Abbey in the New Forest. I couldn't wait to climb the starcase and discover the history behind it.

Unfortunately, it was roped off and no one knows why it was built, leaving the sign more exciting than the staircase.

The rest of Beaulieu is really worth seeing, though - great motor museum, lovely gardens and beautiful surroundings, so don't let this little secret put you off.

Free smells

Sign on a Liverpool restaurant. Makes me smile every time.

No parking

I find this No Parking sign in Liverpool very pleasing - there's something of the Monopoly board about it.

Usual toll applies

There's a bewildering list of tolls on this sign on the Old Toll House in the village of South Brent, Devon. Reading this, I think I understand where our complex tax laws come from. I particularly like the catch-all "For every stall exposing article of whatsoever description for sale" - the usual toll, of course, applies. The toll house dates from the late 18th or early 19th century and is a grade II listed building.

Intelligent graffiti

Do you think you're more intelligent than the average person?

The average person thinks they're more intelligent than average.

Sign spotted in London Road, Liverpool.

Proper use of the paper

Surprise venue of last week was Irlam station, which turned out to be a delight. The station, built in 1893, was derelict for 25 years, and opened last year after a £2 million revamp. The restorers clearly had a love of signs and railway paraphernalia, creating a venue worth a visit in its own right. There's a great cafe where you get to sit in seats decked out like third class railway carriages, plus evidence of a sense of humour and a loving touch. Just watch your behaviour when you use the toilet.

Up the library path

I love this innovative path leading to Liverpool Library, doubling as an artistic sign to advertise the tempting books it has on offer.