Haunted Pubs of the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds are celebrated for their rolling hills, honey coloured stone cottages, and cosy country pubs. Yet behind the welcoming beams and roaring fireplaces, many of these historic inns harbour secrets far darker than their charming exteriors suggest. Step inside and you might find more than a pint waiting for you as locals and visitors alike tell of shadowy apparitions drifting across low lit rooms, ghostly footsteps on creaking stairs, and the restless spirits of headless soldiers still marching through the centuries.

For those intrigued by folklore and the supernatural, these pubs offer more than just good food and ale. They serve as living storybooks, steeped in mystery, where history and legend intertwine. Whether you are a curious traveller, a paranormal enthusiast, or simply looking for a chilling tale to accompany your pint, the Cotswolds’ haunted pubs invite you to experience a spine tingling side of the region that many overlook.

1. The Fleece Inn, Bretforton

Step back into the 15th century at The Fleece Inn, now lovingly preserved by the National Trust. But beware, the ghost of Lola Taplin, a formidable former landlady who passed away in 1977, is said to linger within its ancient walls. Patrons speak of shadowy figures flitting across the bar, tankards flying from shelves, and rocking chairs creaking into life with no one near them. History and hauntings collide in this atmospheric village pub.

🔗 The Fleece Inn

2. The Ragged Cot Inn, Minchinhampton

Whispers of tragedy echo through the centuries at The Ragged Cot. In 1760, a landlord’s wife and child were killed during a violent robbery, and their spirits are said to wander the inn to this day. Guests report eerie bangs, fleeting shadows on the stairs, and ghostly silhouettes dissolving into the night. For those brave enough to explore its haunted past first hand, The Ragged Cot also hosts atmospheric ghost hunt evenings, which can be booked directly here.

🔗 Ragged Cot Inn

3. The Red Lion Pub, Avebury

Nestled within the ancient Avebury stone circle, dating back some 4000 years, this rustic 17th century inn is the only pub in the world to sit inside a prehistoric monument. Its resident spirit, Florrie, is said to roam near the garden well, eternally searching for a bearded man who wronged her in life. Between the looming stones and the ghostly tales, this setting feels as otherworldly as it gets.

🔗 The Red Lion Pub

4. The Black Horse Pub, Cirencester

Lavender scents drifting from nowhere, green lit apparitions flickering in the shadows, and strange markings appearing in condensation have all been reported by visitors to The Black Horse. With a spectral history that spans decades, this old inn has earned a reputation for unsettling even the most seasoned ghost hunters.

🔗 The Black Horse Pub

5. The King’s Head Hotel, Cirencester

One of Cirencester’s grandest buildings, The King’s Head Hotel serves more than fine food and hospitality. Guests have spoken of faceless monks gliding silently through corridors, heavy doors slamming of their own accord, and armoured figures crossing the ballroom as if still patrolling their medieval posts. History and the paranormal sit side by side within its walls.

🔗 The King's Head Hotel

6. Trouble House Inn, Tetbury

True to its name, the Trouble House Inn has a storied and dramatic past, and a resident spirit to match. Known as the Lady in Blue, she drifts silently through the back rooms, unnerving those who catch a glimpse of her passing. For lovers of legend and the unexplained, this eerie stop is one not to miss.

🔗 Trouble House Inn

7. Ancient Ram Inn, Wotton under Edge

Often described as the most haunted building in England, the Ancient Ram Inn is a mecca for ghost hunters. Built on land believed to be an ancient pagan burial ground, its chilling reputation includes sightings of tiny ghostly weepers, wandering monks, and a host of other apparitions. Paranormal investigators travel from across the world to brave its rooms, and ghost hunts can be booked directly with the venue for those daring enough to test its terrifying legacy.

🔗 Ancient Ram Inn

8. The Black Bear Inn, Tewkesbury

Dating back to the 16th century, the Black Bear is steeped in history and haunted by its darker chapters. The most chilling tale is that of a headless soldier, thought to be a Lancastrian who fell after the Battle of Tewkesbury. Many claim to hear the dragging of chains echoing through the hallways, a spectral reminder of the building’s turbulent past.

🔗 Olde Black Bear Facebook;

From tragic tales and restless spirits to chilling encounters that defy explanation, the Cotswolds’ haunted pubs are as much about storytelling as they are about pints. They offer a rare chance to sip a local ale while sitting at the very heart of centuries old legends. Whether you are planning a spooky pub crawl or a hauntingly memorable weekend getaway, these inns promise an unforgettable taste of the supernatural side of the Cotswolds.

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