Here at Visit Worcestershire, we have pulled together a list of our favourite boozers which give punters that little extra, from fleeing kings, to ghostly goings on, to the liquid inspiration behind CS Lewis – Worcestershire has a story to tell, so get comfy by the fire and relax into a historic Worcestershire Pub.
1. King Charles House, New Street, Worcester
Why it’s great: The building (dated 1577) is famous as one of the places where the future Charles II fled after the Battle of Worcester in 1651; it retains features of its dungeon under the floorboards and period panelling. A perfect pit stop for a local ale or cider, or traditional pub grub.
2. The Cardinal’s Hat, Friar Street, Worcester
Why it’s great: The Cardinals is Worcester’s oldest inn, with its origins recorded in the late medieval period (first mentions c.1497) it originally served pilgrims visiting the cathedral. With its disjointed little rooms, it still retains its traditional ‘inn’ feel. It is said, that a ghost of a young girl is regularly seen drifting along the second floor in her flowing white night gown. She is apparently prone to mischief and delights in moving objects or even making them disappear! For those brave enough, there are beautiful hotel rooms to stay in, or just pop in for a pint!
3. Olde Anchor Inn, Upton-upon-Severn
Why it’s great: This timber-framed pub, built in c.1601 , is explicitly referenced in Oliver Cromwell’s Civil War dispatches ahead of the Battle of Worcester. Drink where rebels rested, enjoy the low ceilings and little alcoves that are fit for scheming and plotting the rest of your Worcestershire break.
4. The Fleece Inn, Bretforton
Why it’s great: Built originally as a mid-15th-century farmhouse by a yeoman, it was converted into a public house in the mid-19th century and remains largely untouched architecturally. It was the first pub to be owned by the National Trust, but it's run as a local village pub. The pub boasts features including inglenook fireplaces, chamfered beams, and the “Pewter Room” with a centuries-old collection. Reputedly, Oliver Cromwell’s pewter dinner service was swapped here en route to the Battle of Worcester. You can also find a “witch circle” drawn by the previous owner, Lola Taplin, to ward off evil spirits. It is said that the pub is haunted, but you will have to see for yourself!
For all asparagus fans, the pub is home to the asparagus festivities that take place annually, to Morris dancing, live music and the annual meeting of ‘Nigel’s’ (in honour of its landlord, Nigel – and the fact the name is dying out!).
5. The Unicorn Inn, Great Malvern
Why it’s great: This Grade II-listed, 16th-century timber-framed pub is renowned as a favourite haunt of C. S. Lewis, who frequented it with friends like J.R.R. Tolkien after walks in the Malvern Hills. A plaque commemorates this literary link; it is said that after a heavy night in the Unicorn, C.S. Lewis stumbled out and spotted the gas lights (which are still in situ) and dreamed up Narnia.
6. The Mug House, Claines
Why it’s great: The Mug House is a favourite with locals all year round, dating back to the 15th century and uniquely situated within a churchyard on consecrated ground (one of only two such pubs in England). This unique pub has three outside gardens to enjoy and a number of cosy rooms which have a fantastic view of rural Worcestershire. The pub landlord reports, unexplained knocking and glasses shattering. This eerie setting and traditional interior make it a compelling place to enjoy a pint.
7. The King & Castle, Kidderminster
Why it’s great: Located at the Severn Valley Railway train station in Kidderminster, this pub faithfully recreates a refreshment room from a GWR terminus. It’s atmospheric and evocative, especially in winter when the log burner is lit. Listen out for the guard’s whistle and check out the impressive steam trains in action while enjoying excellent local ales or a locally made gin.
8. Ye Olde Black Cross – Bromsgrove
Why it’s great: This pub dates back to 1640 and was originally built as a blacksmith’s cottage at a crossroads. Over time, it transformed into what is now known as the ‘Olde Black Cross’, still preserving features like the low beams and a traditional layout. The pub has a royal link, as it is said King Charles II passed by disguised as a servant as he fled from the Battle of Worcester, and there is rumoured to be a ghostly apparition of royalist soldiers walking between the bar and lounge. The pub also has a darker history, as convicts were held in the cellar and hanged at the crossroads. This year, the pub celebrates its 385th anniversary (2025) and was nominated for Pub of the Year. Cheers to that…