Pubs and inns are synonymous with the UK and have been used as meeting places for strangers, friends, locals, and travellers for centuries. While thousands of pubs are spread across the UK, here are a few of the most iconic ones.
Ye Olde Fighting Cocks
The Ye Olde Fighting Cocks pub can be found in St. Albans and is widely regarded as one of the oldest pubs in the country that is still in operation. While the age of the pub is still up for debate, many believe its foundations can be dated back all the way to 793.
While the building was built around the 11th century, it has been a staple in St. Albans since its doors opened. It is the perfect place to sit with your Vaporesso and a pint after a long day of adventure.
The Prospect Of Whitby
Found on the banks of the River Thames, The Prospect of Whitby has the claim to fame of possibly being the oldest pub on the riverside, dating back to 1520. Back in the day, it was the preferred watering hole of sailors, crooks, and the riff-raff of London, but nowadays, it is highly popular with everyone in the area, locals and tourists alike.
It was also where Charles Dickens and William Turner preferred to have a drink or two, and with its rich history, it is a must-visit for anyone in the area.
The Turks Head
Found in the famous town of Penzance, The Turks Head supposedly opened its doors in 1233. It is named after the Turks, pirates from North Africa, who invaded Penzance and the surrounding areas around the same time.
The pub had a tunnel that ran underneath it to the harbour, making it the preferred spot for shady sailors, pirates, and smugglers. While the clientele has obviously changed, the pub still serves up delicious freshly caught seafood and even better pints.
The Old Bridge Inn
With some of its oldest records dating back to 1307, the Old Bridge Inn has a strong claim to being named the oldest pub in Yorkshire. Found on the gentle shores of the River Ryburn, this ancient inn has changed very little in its seven centuries of existence.
With a hearty menu and a warm atmosphere, the Old Bridge In is the perfect place to spend a cold Winter’s afternoon.
The Compasses Inn
Found in Chicksgrove, the Compass Inn has been a Wiltshire staple since the 14th century. The stone building still has many of its original features and takes you back in time from the moment you step over the threshold.
Even when you look past the history and beautiful ancient architecture, you get a pub that prides itself on creating delicious food and serving up fresh glasses of local ales and ciders.
The Royal Standard Of England
The Royal Standard of England is said to be the oldest “free house” in England, with many records dating it back around 800 years. First named “Se Scip”, or the Ship, its current name was given to it by Charles II in the 1663 in honour of supporting his father during the Civil War.
Nowadays, it is almost the stereotypical country pub, packed with old antiques and architecture, and it serves up some of the best ales and traditional pub food you could find.
The Old Ferry Boar Inn
Not to be mistaken for being located in the St. Ives, The Old Ferry Boat Inn can be found in St. Ives in Cambridgeshire. This is another pub with a strong claim to being the oldest in the UK, with alcohol being served on the premises supposedly since 560.
Much like some other pubs in the country, the Old Ferry Boat is said to be haunted by a ghost named Juliette, who has been said to have wandered the grounds since 1050.
The Porch House
Not to be mistaken for being located in the St. Ives, The Old Ferry Boat Inn can be found in St. Ives in Cambridgeshire. This is another pub with a strong claim to being the oldest in the UK, with alcohol being served on the premises supposedly since 560.
Much like some other pubs in the country, the Old Ferry Boat is said to be haunted by a ghost named Juliette, who has been said to have wandered the grounds since 1050.
The Bingley Arms
A man named Samson Ellis supposedly began brewing beer in the now-named Bingley Arms all the way in 953. Found just north of Leeds, the pub was once named the Priests Inn, as it is perfectly located on a popular path between Kirkstall Abbey and York.
It was supposedly used as a hiding place for Catholic priests and is another pub with a few ghosts that call it home, as well as a ghost dog.
These are not only some of the most iconic pubs in the UK, but also some of the oldest. Their popularity is a testament to their longevity, and if you are ever in the area of any of them, you should make the time to stop, have a beer or two, and take in the history and stories surrounding you.
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