The UK has a rich history and culture, with legends, myths, and folklore passed down through generations, much of it on the spooky side. We may not be believers in the paranormal, but there’s no doubt some places have a definite atmosphere, and we have just one question.
Would you spend time in one of the UK’s most haunted pubs?
From ghostly sightings to mysterious noises, these 10 pubs are said to be some of the most haunted in the country. So grab a pint and settle in as we go pub-crawling with ghosts in the UK.
The Ancient Ram Inn, Wotton-under-Edge, Gloucestershire
Although it’s no longer a pub, its reputation for being one of the most haunted places in England, lingers on. Visitors to the 2th-century Grade II listed inn report feeling cold spots, hearing footsteps, and even being pushed by unseen hands.
The pub is said to be home to the ghost of a witch who was burned at the stake, as well as the spirits of children who were once held captive here.
Overnight ghost hunting tours can be enjoyed (?) by visiting The Ancient Ram Inn website.
The Skirrid Mountain Inn, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire
Nestled in the Brecon Beacons, the Skirrid Mountain Inn is over 900 years old and one of the oldest pubs in Wales, dating back to the 12th century, and one of the most haunted.
Legend says the pub was once used as a courthouse, where criminals were tried and executed. The ghosts of these unfortunates now linger, causing unexplained noises and giving guests spine tingling chills. Not for those of a nervous disposition!
Stay the night and take part in a spooky ghost hunt or just enjoy a steak and ale pie, more information can be found on the Skirrid Inn website.
The Spaniards Inn, Hampstead, London
Over 400 years old and located in the leafy suburb of Hampstead, The Spaniards is haunted by the ghost of the infamous highwayman, Dick Turpin. His father used to be its landlord, and visitors say they’ve seen Dick’s ghostly figure riding his horse across the nearby heath, roaming the pub and leaning on the bar. If you’re lucky, he might even share a pint with you!
On a less ghostly theme, it was immortalised by Dickens in The Pickwick Papers, and was allegedly the place in which Keats penned ‘Ode to a Nightingale’.
Find out more about this landmark London pub on the Spaniards website. Maybe book a table in the restaurant, although Dick might be a no show!
The White Hart Inn, Edinburgh
In one form or another, this pub on Edinburgh’s Grassmarket can trace its history back to the 1500s. Robert Burns is said to have written the song ‘Ae Fond Kiss’ here on his last visit to Scotland in 1791 and William Wordsworth stayed the night in 1803.
It’s also possible that the ‘body snatchers’ Burke and Hare were patrons, and if that’s not spine-chilling enough for you, the inn is haunted by the ghost of a young woman who was tragically murdered by her lover. Strange noises have been heard, and cold breezes felt, so be sure to bring a blanket.
Follow in the footsteps of Burns and try the White Hart’s award-winning haggis. Despite its spooky reputation, it remains a cheerful dog-and family-friendly pub.
Ye Olde Man and Scythe, Bolton
This Grade II listed inn dates from 1251 and is said to be the 4th oldest pub in Great Britain, and the 5th oldest in the world.
Home to several spirits, including a ghostly dog, the spirit of a young boy and a girl called Jenny, they have CCTV to prove it.
It’s also haunted by the ghost of James Stanley, the Seventh Earl of Derby, who was beheaded outside the pub during the English Civil War. Stanley’s ghostly figure has been seen around the building, and some have sensed a strange presence. The chair he sat in before he lost his head is still there, so if you’re feeling brave, raise a glass to the Earl. But just don’t sit in his chair!
Head over to Churchgate street in Bolton for one of their live music nights, and maybe you can duet with the Earl! More info can be found on their website.
The Red Lion, Avebury
Located on a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of the Avebury stone circle, The Red Lion is a pub with a difference. It’s said to be haunted by the ghosts of ancient Druids who once worshipped at the site.
Many visitors have reported hearing unexplained noises, feeling a sense of unease, and even seeing ghostly figures in the pub and a phantom horse-drawn carriage with its ubiquitous headless horseman in its courtyard.
Or you might meet Florrie murdered by her husband on his return from the English Civil War. First licensed in 1802 The Red Lion is also famous for its 86ft deep well which dates back to the 1600s, into which Florrie was thrown.
Surrounded by the Neolithic stone circle and not far from prehistoric Silbury Hill, The Red Lion is a great place for a lunch and a pint after exploring and dogs are welcome.
The Golden Fleece, York
A Grade II listed building with the reputation of being the most haunted pub in York, you’ll find the Golden Fleece at 16 Pavement at the bottom of the Shambles.
It’s been an inn for over 400 years and has seen its fair share of tragedy and death.
Haunted by a number of ghosts, including Lady Alice Peckett, wife of the owner of the hotel John Peckett, one time mayor of York.
And keep an eye out for One-Eyed Jack in his 16th Century red coat sitting at the bar. Visitors have heard strange noises and felt a chill in the air.
Stay in one of the Golden Fleece’s 4 bedrooms (you might get a visit from Alice in The Lady Peckett room) or just enjoy a meal in their restaurant.
The Mermaid Inn, Rye
We love the picturesque town of Rye in East Sussex. The Mermaid Inn on cobbled Mermaid Street is one of the UK’s most famous haunted public houses. A charming and historic pub that’s said to be haunted by a number of very different ghosts.
Choose from a ghostly lady in white, a phantom monk, or a spectral figure in the upstairs bedroom. If you’re very (un)lucky, you may be visited by them all!
With a Priest Hole, The Giants’ Fireplace Bar, Dr Syn’s Bed Chamber you can stay the night, book a table or take the virtual tour on the Mermaid Inn website.
The Jamaica Inn, Cornwall
With the mist rolling in across Bodmin Moor, it’s easy to imagine Jamaica Inn is haunted by the very smugglers who used to frequent the old coaching inn in the 18th and 19th centuries.
The inn was the setting for Daphne du Maurier’s 1936 novel Jamaica Inn and unearthly footsteps and voices, as well as sightings of ghostly apparitions, have been experienced.
Jamaica Inn is open to ghost hunters both for weekends and late night investigations. Visit the museum, book a stay in one of the famous Haunted Rooms, or make a table reservation via the Jamaica Inn website.
The Grenadier, London
This pub is haunted by the ghost of a soldier who was beaten to death for cheating at cards. Guests have reported feeling a strange presence and seeing the soldier’s ghostly figure in the corner of their eye.
If you’re feeling brave, challenge him to a game of poker or add to the banknotes that cover the ceiling donated by patrons to pay off his debt.
The Grenadier is tucked away in Belgravia on the cobbled road section of Wilton Row. Visit the Grenadier’s website.
So are you willing to visit and take on the spirits, both ghostly and alcoholic?
Where to next?
• Best UK guided ghost walks
• 8 spooky places to see in Haunted Bristol
• Haunted Hotels in Massachusetts