Are these the most haunted pubs in the UK?

Britain does not shy away from the more macabre and unsettling aspects of its history. In fact, a host of tourist attractions – such as the London Dungeon and its Edinburgh counterpart – are what make it so attractive. So it’s no surprise that some of the country’s historic pubs also celebrate their dark side. From the heart of London to rural Scotland, these haunted pubs are reputedly patrolled by ghostly inhabitants – some mischievous, others unnerving. Step inside if you dare.

Drovers Inn in Stirling

Set against the dramatic backdrop of Loch Lomond, Drovers Inn exudes eeriness from the get-go, with rustic stone walls, flickering candlelight and a taxidermied bird peering out from the bar with a watchful eye. The inn is said to be home to the spirit of a young girl who drowned in the lake, and overnight guests claim to have felt a cold, ghostly touch or a lingering icy draft in their rooms. You’ll find information about spooky events that happen around the 18th^vol-century pub, including on the menu, and the staff are also happy to share their ghostly tales.

Grace Neill Bar, County Down

Established in 1611, the Grace Neill Bar is one of the oldest pubs in Northern Ireland, and its namesake, Grace Neill, is said to have stayed here long after her death in 1918. Traditional interiors with dark wood paneling set the tone, and although the venue has recently undergone partial renovation, Grace’s spirit can most often be felt in the original interiors and staircases of the bar. Be sure to listen for her otherworldly footsteps – often heard on the floors above.

Golden Fleece, York

It would be easy to miss this small, unassuming two-story tavern hidden among York’s medieval streets. However, it is said to be home to 15 ghosts, including Lady Ann Picket, who can often be heard climbing the creaky stairs, and Geoff Monroe, a Canadian aviator whose malevolent gaze apparently follows guests from the third floor. The historic building has a cozy antique lounge and four bedrooms for overnight guests – so if you’re feeling up to it, you can lie down and wait for the pub’s ghostly inhabitants to make their presence known.

Sutton Arms in London

Expect a friendly welcome at this old drinking school near the Barbican, where pub-goers are said to be greeted by a mischievous spirit. Known as Charlie, the red-haired ghost smiles at unsuspecting guests before disappearing. His presence is fleeting, so for a chance to spot him, sit at his favorite table in the corner of the bar. Stained glass ceilings and craft beers are a big part of the pub’s appeal, but it’s the prospect of spotting Charlie that will make your visit unforgettable.

Skirrid Mountain Inn in Abergavenny

Blood-curdling whispers are part of the party at the former Monmouthshire courthouse, which is now one of the oldest pubs in Wales. Rising above the staircase is an original hanging beam with rope markings that remind visitors of its sinister past. There are also nightly ghost hunts, during which Ouija boards and other specialized equipment reveal the presence of Fanny Price, a former housekeeper who died here in the 17th century.^vol age. And if that’s not enough, head to the surrounding forests, which are said to be equally haunted.

Whistle Binkies in Edinburgh

This famous bar and music hall is less than forty years old, but its spooky occurrences date back much further. In the 17th century, this cavernous underground space housed the city’s poorest inhabitants and criminals in a series of stone chambers. Today it is said to be frequently visited by a pair of poltergeists lurking in flowing cloaks – allegedly responsible for tampering with door handles and even trapping staff in the basement. Their ominous footsteps echo throughout the strange place, and private rooms in the caves offer the chance for close encounters with the specters.

Crosskeys Inn, County Antrim

This charming white stone cottage dates back to 1654 and is the oldest thatched pub in Northern Ireland. Its walls are decorated with eclectic ornaments that pay homage to the generations of guests who have passed through the wooden latched doors. There is also said to be a resident here – a tall, shadowy male figure often seen hiding in corners or walking past yellow-framed windows at dawn. With performances of traditional Irish music and fine whiskey, it’s the perfect place to toast the evening – and the spirits.