Pall Mall

“This Pall Mall cast iron radiator is of graceful lines yet of sound and sturdy construction. Crane boilers and radiators are literally ‘cast iron’ for any heating specification” — A Crane Company Pall Mall advert (1919)

The History of the Pall Mall

Crane's Signature Radiator

The Pall Mall stands as Crane’s most iconic radiator, representing the pinnacle of the company’s design expertise. Unlike the American Radiator Company, their biggest competitor, Crane did not produce a wide range of radiators. Instead, they focused on perfecting a handful of key models, with the Pall Mall becoming one of the most popular across the UK.

In fact, the Pall Mall is likely Britain’s second most common cast iron radiator, only trailing behind the Neo-Classic. It gained prominence during the rise of Edwardian column radiators in the early 1900s, and its enduring appeal cemented Crane’s reputation in the industry. Many of Crane’s later radiators were inspired by the Pall Mall, with its influence still seen in designs produced today.

4 column Pall Mall radiator.

The Pall Mall: Key Features

The Pall Mall’s design is distinctive, featuring a bead running along the edge of its outer columns, a trait often found in school radiators. Another unique detail is the pinched rim surrounding the columns, especially in the 4 and 6 column versions.

Though it shares some similarities with the Neo-Classic—such as the concave cross braces between each section—the Pall Mall has its own defining features. The “Crane” name is cast prominently into the shoulder of the radiator, just above the bush, while its bleed valve is located at the top corner of the column, rather than embedded in the bush-end like the Neo-Classic.

Overall, the design is sleek and clean, but with more grooves and subtle detailing than other column radiators.

Image: Lifestyle photo of the Pall Mall 4 column. 

Lifestyle image of the Pall Mall 4 column.