The Haunted Pubs of Old London

If you’re into ghost stories, historic London, or just love a good pub crawl with a twist, this Haunted Pubs of Old London tour might be right up your alley. While I haven’t joined it myself, plenty of travelers seem to enjoy the mix of storytelling, historic sights, and atmospheric pubs. The tour promises a fascinating look at London’s darker side, all while wandering through some of the city’s most intriguing neighborhoods.

What grabs most people are the knowledgeable guides—like Arthur, who’s received glowing reviews for his fun personality and deep historical insights. And of course, the atmosphere of the pubs—many are centuries old and come with their own ghostly legends. That said, it’s not a perfect experience for everyone; it involves walking around in the dark, and some sites require a fair bit of standing or outdoor exploring. Overall, if you’re a fan of ghost stories, history, and a little bit of pub-hopping, this tour is likely to be memorable.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is primarily focused on history and storytelling. It’s not a haunted house experience or a spooky scare-fest—more of a walk-through of London’s eerie stories. And if you’re traveling with children or have mobility issues, it’s worth noting that this isn’t the best fit. But for adults who enjoy a mix of history, ghost lore, and a cozy pub atmosphere, it could be just the right adventure.

Key Points

• Expert guide: The tour benefits from a knowledgeable, engaging guide who’s passionate about London’s history and ghost stories.
• Atmospheric stops: Multiple historic pubs with intriguing tales, some haunted by ghosts or linked to dark events.
• Historical insights: The tour covers notorious sites like plague pits, old prisons, and historic streets that reveal London’s darker past.
• Walking experience: Expect to walk up to 10 minutes at a time, exploring outdoor areas as well as inside pubs.
• Weather considerations: The tour takes place rain or shine, so dress appropriately for the weather.
• Age and mobility: Not suitable for children under 18 or those with mobility impairments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring London’s Haunted Side: What the Tour Offers

The tour kicks off at Barbican Underground Station, a central spot that’s easy to find. From there, it’s a walk through the historic streets of Smithfield, an area famous for its centuries-old market and bloodstained past. The guide begins by sharing the secrets of the neighborhood, setting a creepy tone for the journey ahead.

Visitors’ First Stop: The Haunted Pub with a Friendly Ghost

Your first pub visit is more than just a traditional watering hole. This place is said to be haunted by a friendly ghost, and you’ll get to enjoy a complimentary half-pint of traditional English beer or a non-alcoholic drink. The stories about this pub are engaging, and many guests find the ghost tales particularly charming rather than frightening.

The Grim History of Plague Pits and Black Death

One of the most compelling parts of the tour is a visit to one of London’s most notorious plague pits, dating back to the Black Death. Here, the guide shares chilling details about the grim fate of those buried there, and the area’s dark history. If you’re curious about how London coped with such a devastating event, this stop offers both historical context and a sense of the city’s resilience.

The Charterhouse Monastery and the Monks’ Fate

Next up is a visit to the Charterhouse monastery, where you’ll hear about the grisly fate of the monks. The stories add a layer of intrigue to the site, which is also notable for its connection to London’s religious history. The guide’s storytelling makes these old stones come alive with stories of murder, secrets, and supernatural whispers.

More Great Tours Nearby

Smithfield: Blood, Criminals, and Filming Locations

Smithfield itself is a character in this tour. Once a notorious site for bloody executions, it was also a criminal hotspot during Dickens’s time. Today, it’s a lively market area that’s been featured in films like Skyfall, Snatch, Sherlock, and V for Vendetta. The guide highlights these modern cultural connections while sharing tales of past violence and justice.

The Resurrection Men and Haunted Pubs

A fun (and creepy) highlight is a pub once frequented by resurrection men, body snatchers who moved corpses for medical study. Rumors of ghosts of victims haunt this place, and the stories give an extra edge to the pub experience. It’s a great example of how dark history and lively pub culture can intertwine.

The Oldest Church and Its Ghostly Secrets

You’ll also explore the grounds of London’s oldest surviving church, which has its own spectral legends. The guide describes the church’s haunted corners, which have appeared on film and have a storied past of their own.

Exploring a Haunted Hospital and the Black Dog of Newgate

The tour continues with a walk through the grounds of a haunted hospital, known for its ghostly residents, and the site of Newgate Prison, famously associated with the legend of the Black Dog—an ominous spectral figure. These stories add to the eerie atmosphere and make for striking storytelling moments.

The Most Haunted Pub and Ending at the Old Bailey

The tour wraps up at Londons’ most haunted pub, home to three different ghosts. After a few final stories, you’ll end near St. Paul’s Cathedral, feeling like you’ve just stepped out of a London ghost story yourself.

What the Experience Feels Like

The tour’s pacing is relaxed but engaging. You’ll be walking on cobbled streets, standing in pubs filled with centuries of history, and hearing stories that make you look at London’s familiar sights in a new, darker light. The guide, like Arthur, is praised for his hilarious and jolly personality, making what could be a spooky walk into a fun, educational outing.

Guests mention that the storytelling is lively and informative, often making history feel accessible and even amusing. Rebecca from Arizona said, “Arthur was a fantastic tour guide! We actually went on a second tour with him because he was so good.” The reviews highlight that the guide’s deep knowledge makes a big difference, turning a simple pub crawl into a captivating experience.

Practical Considerations

This tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours and involves some outdoor walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Since it takes place rain or shine, dressing for the weather is advised. The group size tends to be manageable, and the tour is suitable for adults who enjoy stories about London’s darker past, ghost legends, and historic pubs.

Price and Value

While the price isn’t explicitly listed here, considering the length, content, and the inclusion of drinks and stories, it seems to offer good value for those interested in a unique, story-rich experience. The tour’s focus on history, ghost lore, and atmospheric pubs makes it a compelling choice for anyone wanting a different perspective on London.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, fans of ghost stories, or those looking for an evening walk that combines culture with a bit of spooky fun. It’s best suited for adults who enjoy storytelling and exploring historic sites by foot. If you’re after a lively, engaging guide and don’t mind walking outdoors, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding.

However, it’s not suitable for children under 18 or for travelers with mobility challenges, as it involves walking and outdoor exploration. Also, if you’re hoping for a scary, haunted house experience, this tour’s more about storytelling and atmosphere than jump-scares.

Final Thoughts

The Haunted Pubs of Old London offers a fascinating peek into the city’s shadowy past with a friendly, knowledgeable guide leading the way. For those who enjoy historic tales, ghost stories, and a pint in atmospheric pubs, this walk promises a memorable evening. The mix of storytelling, historic sites, and lively pub atmospheres makes it stand out from standard walking tours.

While it’s not geared toward children or those with mobility issues, it’s a solid choice for adult travelers seeking a different kind of London adventure. The stories stay with you long after the tour ends, and the guide’s enthusiasm makes it all the more fun.

If you’re keen to see a different, darker side of London with a healthy dose of fun and history, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. Just be prepared for a fair bit of walking, and dress for the weather—you’ll thank yourself when your ghostly tales come alive.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for adults over 18 due to the historical and ghost stories and walking involved.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 3.5 hours, covering several historic pubs and sites.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially since it’s a popular experience, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential, and dress for the weather since parts of the tour are outdoors.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to walking and outdoor areas.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll get a guided walk, stories, and a complimentary half-pint of traditional English beer or a non-alcoholic drink at the first pub.

What if it rains?
The tour takes place in rain or shine, so be prepared for wet weather if needed.

The Haunted Pubs of Old London offers a well-balanced mix of history, ghost lore, and pub culture, led by passionate guides who bring the stories to life. Whether you’re a history fanatic or just love spooky tales, it’s worth considering for an evening that’s a little different from the usual sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here: