British laws that seem absurd but actually exist in the UK

[post_page_title]No beating or shaking carpets, mats, or rugs[/post_page_title]
This is another strange law that comes as part of the Metropolitan Police Act of 1854. A particular section in this act makes it illegal to beat carpets, mats, and rugs in the streets of London.

So if you want to clean your carpets and rugs, you better find another, less public way to get it done. There is one exception made for doormats, but those are only allowed to be beaten before 8:00 in the morning.