The United Kingdom, with its rich history and ancient buildings, is a treasure trove for ghost stories and paranormal activities. For those intrigued by the supernatural, there are pubs, inns, and public houses that not only offer a drink but also a chance to experience a ghostly presence. This article delves into some of the most haunted pubs in the UK where you can immerse yourselves in tales of ghosts and haunted rooms. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, these venues promise a thrilling night out.
The Ancient Ram Inn: England’s Most Haunted
The Ancient Ram Inn in Wotton-under-Edge is arguably the most famous haunted pub in England. This 12th-century building is steeped in history and has long been associated with paranormal activity. John Humphries, the previous owner, spent decades documenting supernatural occurrences and trying to understand the spirits that inhabit the inn.
Visitors to the Ancient Ram Inn have reported an array of ghostly experiences, from cold spots to full apparitions. The most infamous room is the Bishop Room, where countless guests have felt a menacing presence. Some have even fled in the middle of the night, refusing to stay until morning. Legends tell of witches, ghostly children, and a high priest, making it a perfect place for those interested in ghost hunting.
If you visit on a Saturday or Sunday night, you might even join a guided ghost hunt organized by local paranormal groups. The Ancient Ram Inn offers an unparalleled glimpse into England’s dark and mysterious past, making it a must-visit for ghost story enthusiasts.
The Skirrid Inn: Echoes of the Past
Perched on the edge of the Skirrid Mountain in Llanvihangel Crucorney, Wales, the Skirrid Inn is one of the oldest pubs in the country. Dating back to the 12th century, it has a history filled with tales of crime and punishment. This historic England building is said to be haunted by the spirits of those who met their fate here.
One of the most frequently spotted ghosts is that of John Crowther, a convict who was hanged from a beam in the inn. The noose marks can still be seen today, and visitors often report feeling an eerie presence near the ancient wood. Another spirit said to haunt the pub is that of Fanny Price, a local woman who died of tuberculosis in the 18th century. Guests have reported feeling cold hands touch them or hearing a woman’s voice when no one is there.
The Skirrid Inn offers ghost story events throughout the year, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights. The combination of its chilling past and the inn’s authentic atmosphere makes it a fascinating place to hear ghostly tales and maybe even experience something otherworldly.
Viaduct Tavern: Spirits Among Spirits
Nestled in the heart of London, the Viaduct Tavern on Newgate Street is not just a place to enjoy a pint but also to encounter the supernatural. This Victorian pub, which stands near the site of the notorious Newgate Prison, is said to be haunted by the souls of former prisoners.
Bartenders and customers alike have reported unexplained phenomena, such as objects moving on their own and sudden drops in temperature. The pub’s basement, once used as prison cells, is particularly active with paranormal occurrences. Some have claimed to hear the sounds of chains rattling or disembodied voices whispering in the dark.
The Viaduct Tavern hosts ghost story nights, especially on weekdays from Monday to Thursday, where patrons can listen to eerie tales about the pub’s haunted history. For those interested in the macabre history of London, the Viaduct Tavern offers both a fascinating and spooky evening.
Jamaica Inn: Smuggler’s Haunts
Located in the windswept landscape of Bodmin Moor, Cornwall, the Jamaica Inn is famous for its smuggling history and its hauntings. Built in 1750, it has been a refuge for weary travelers and a hotbed for illicit activities. The inn is so renowned that it inspired Daphne du Maurier to write her novel "Jamaica Inn," which cemented its place in popular culture.
The ghost stories here are as rich as the inn’s history. Guests have often reported hearing the footsteps of a man who walks the corridors before vanishing into thin air. Some believe this is the spirit of a murdered smuggler seeking revenge. Others have seen the apparition of a young woman who appears in old-fashioned clothing and then disappears.
The Jamaica Inn offers regular ghost story nights, where you can hear about its haunted past while enjoying a meal or a drink. The events are usually held on weekends, making it an ideal destination for a spooky getaway. The combination of its isolated location and its eerie history makes the Jamaica Inn a top spot for paranormal enthusiasts.
Red Lion: Spirits in the Cellar
Situated in Avebury, Wiltshire, the Red Lion is a public house with a long history of hauntings. Built in the 1600s, it sits in the center of the Avebury stone circle, adding to its mystical allure. The pub is famous for its resident ghost, Florrie, who was brutally murdered by her husband in the 17th century. Florrie’s spirit is said to wander the inn, particularly around the cellar and the well where her body was disposed of.
Guests and staff have reported seeing her apparition, often dressed in a white gown, and hearing the sounds of her weeping. The Red Lion hosts ghost story nights where visitors can learn more about Florrie’s tragic end and other spectral sightings.
The pub’s location within the Avebury stone circle adds an extra layer of mystery, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in the paranormal. The ghost story nights are typically held during the quieter hours from Monday to Thursday, providing an intimate setting for sharing spooky tales.
From the Ancient Ram Inn to the Skirrid Inn, the Viaduct Tavern to the Jamaica Inn, and the Red Lion, the UK is home to some of the most haunted pubs in the world. Each of these historic establishments offers a unique blend of history, paranormal activity, and spine-chilling ghost stories that make for an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned ghost hunter or just looking for a thrilling night out, these pubs provide the perfect setting for a ghost story night.
As you venture into these haunted pubs, you’ll find yourselves immersed in the rich tapestry of tales that have been passed down through generations. The eerie atmospheres and firsthand accounts of ghostly encounters will leave you questioning what lies beyond the veil of our everyday reality. So, gather your courage, and step into these historic haunts for a night of paranormal intrigue and supernatural storytelling.
