England is home to some of the oldest and most historic pubs in the world, each with its own fascinating stories, medieval architecture, and legendary patrons. Many of these pubs date back hundreds of years, some even claiming origins as far back as the 8th century. Whether built into ancient caves or frequented by kings and knights, these historic taverns are must-visit destinations for history lovers and beer enthusiasts alike.
Here’s a look at the top 10 oldest pubs in England, each offering a glimpse into the past.
1. Ye Olde Fighting Cocks (St. Albans, Hertfordshire) – 793 AD
🏆 Claim to Fame: Once held the Guinness World Record for England’s oldest pub.
Why Visit?
- Originally a medieval pigeon house (dovecote) before becoming a pub.
- Said to have tunnels connecting it to St. Albans Cathedral, used by monks.
- Legend claims Oliver Cromwell stayed here during the English Civil War.
🍺 Must Try: A classic English ale by local Hertfordshire brewers.
2. The Bingley Arms (Leeds, West Yorkshire) – 953 AD
⛪ Claim to Fame: A Saxon-era inn, originally called “The Priests’ Inn”.
Why Visit?
- Thought to be a resting place for monks and priests traveling between monasteries.
- Contains hidden priest holes, used during the persecution of Catholics.
- Cozy, medieval atmosphere with log fires and historic wooden beams.
🍺 Must Try: A pint of Yorkshire bitter.
3. Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem (Nottingham) – 1189 AD
🛡️ Claim to Fame: Said to have been a stop for Crusaders before their journey to the Holy Land.
Why Visit?
- Built into sandstone caves beneath Nottingham Castle.
- Contains a haunted model ship known as the “Cursed Galleon.”
- Offers a medieval tavern feel with dimly lit rooms and old stone walls.
🍺 Must Try: A locally brewed Nottingham ale.
4. The Royal Standard of England (Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire) – 1086 AD
📜 Claim to Fame: First mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086.
Why Visit?
- Used as a hiding place for Royalists during the English Civil War.
- Features oak beams, low ceilings, and a roaring fireplace.
- Has been featured in films and TV shows due to its authentic medieval look.
🍺 Must Try: A pint of locally brewed cask ale.
5. The Porch House (Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucestershire) – 947 AD
🏡 Claim to Fame: One of England’s oldest continuously inhabited buildings.
Why Visit?
- Originally a monastery before becoming a pub.
- Inside, you’ll find medieval fireplaces, wooden beams, and cozy nooks.
- A great stop if you’re exploring the Cotswolds.
🍺 Must Try: A traditional Cotswold cider.
6. The Old Ferry Boat Inn (Holywell, Cambridgeshire) – 560 AD (claimed)
👻 Claim to Fame: Possibly England’s oldest inn, with legendary ghost stories.
Why Visit?
- Said to have been serving ale since Saxon times.
- According to legend, the ghost of a young woman named Juliet haunts the inn.
- Located next to the River Great Ouse, offering a peaceful riverside setting.
🍺 Must Try: A local craft ale while enjoying the riverside views.
7. The George Inn (Norton St. Philip, Somerset) – 1397 AD
⚔️ Claim to Fame: A coaching inn used during the Monmouth Rebellion.
Why Visit?
- Features original medieval timber and stone fireplaces.
- Once served as a meeting place for Royalist soldiers.
- A beautiful historic pub in the Somerset countryside.
🍺 Must Try: A pint of Somerset cider.
8. The Angel Inn (Lymington, Hampshire) – 1100 AD
👑 Claim to Fame: King Richard II was said to be a visitor.
Why Visit?
- Located in the New Forest, an area once used by Norman kings for hunting.
- Has original medieval beams and a rustic, countryside feel.
- A great stop after exploring the coastal town of Lymington.
🍺 Must Try: A local Hampshire pale ale.
9. The Adam and Eve (Norwich, Norfolk) – 1249 AD
📖 Claim to Fame: Originally served medieval stone masons working on Norwich Cathedral.
Why Visit?
- A classic English pub with a strong sense of local history.
- Still maintains its 16th-century brickwork and historic charm.
- Located in the heart of Norwich’s historic district.
🍺 Must Try: A Norfolk craft beer.
10. The Bear Inn (Oxford) – 1242 AD
🎓 Claim to Fame: One of Oxford’s oldest pubs, tied to the city’s famous university.
Why Visit?
- A favorite drinking spot for Oxford students for centuries.
- Inside, you’ll find a collection of thousands of old ties from past patrons.
- Offers a traditional pub atmosphere in the heart of Oxford.
🍺 Must Try: A classic English porter beer.
Final Thoughts: The Best Old Pubs in England 🍻
England’s oldest pubs are more than just drinking spots—they are pieces of history, each with centuries-old stories, unique architecture, and famous visitors. Whether you want to step inside a medieval coaching inn, explore haunted pub legends, or sip ale where knights once drank, these historic pubs offer an unforgettable experience.
✅ For history lovers: Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem or The Bingley Arms.
✅ For a cozy countryside visit: The Porch House or The Angel Inn.
✅ For ghost hunters: The Old Ferry Boat Inn.
✅ For city explorers: The Bear Inn (Oxford) or The Adam and Eve (Norwich).