Last Chance Saloon

This expression is now a metaphor for the final opportunity to accomplish something or retrieve a situation, and dates from the early 20th century. It originated in the American West during the mid-19th century, where it was not so much the name of any particular saloon or bar but rather a general notice informing travellers that this was the last chance to get a drink before heading out into the wilderness. As a metaphor, as opposed to being the last chance to get a drink, it is now more popular in Britain than in America.