1. Ye Olde Black Cross, Bromsgrove
A historic inn with some rather unsettling guests
Dating back to around 1640, Ye Olde Black Cross in Bromsgrove has a history steeped in ghostly tales. Local legend tells of spirits of condemned criminals, alongside sightings of a little girl and a cavalier soldier said to wander towards the bar.
Unexplained images have reportedly appeared on CCTV, and the inn is said to have two haunted rooms. Fancy an overnight stay? Just be prepared for a few unexpected guests!
2. The Mug House, Claines, Worcester
A pint beside the graves… with a ghostly companion
Nestled beside the ancient churchyard in Claines, just outside Worcester, The Mug House is steeped in history and spooky tales. Its most famous ghostly resident, Bert, is said to roam the upper floors, with reports of unexplained footsteps and pint glasses swinging like pendulums.
With its atmospheric setting and eerie reputation, it’s the perfect spot for a pint with a paranormal twist. Just keep an eye on your glass!
3. The Cardinal’s Hat, Worcester
Whispers, unexplained movements and a mysterious little girl
The Cardinal’s Hat is one of Worcester’s oldest pubs, with a reputation for some rather spooky goings-on. Tales include objects mysteriously moving, faint conversations when nobody is around and sightings of a little blonde girl running across the first floor.
Some also report sudden changes in room temperature, with local lore linking the strange occurrences to a Victorian-era fire. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, this historic pub has plenty of stories to spark your imagination.
4. The Fleece Inn, Bretforton
Meet Lola Taplin, the landlady who may never have left
The Fleece Inn in Bretforton is said to be haunted by its formidable former landlady, Lola Taplin, who ran the pub for around 30 years. Local legend tells of plates and sandwich boxes mysteriously being thrown to the floor, with some believing Lola is still making her presence felt.
Fancy a visit? Enjoy a meal, soak up the historic surroundings or catch a folk music event.
5. The Little Pack Horse
Phantom footsteps and the sound of children upstairs
Dating back to the 15th century, The Little Pack Horse is steeped in history and spooky tales. Former staff have reportedly heard two sets of children’s footsteps and faint giggling echoing across the upper floor.
According to local legend, shouting up the stairs and asking the children to be quiet is the only way to stop the mysterious sounds. Could it be the creaks of an old building, or something more supernatural?
6. The Black Boy Inn, Bewdley
Dating back to 1466, the Black Boy Inn on Wyre Hill is one of Bewdley’s historic landmarks. With centuries of history behind it, this old inn offers plenty of atmosphere for those exploring Worcestershire’s past and its ghostly tales.
Combine a visit with a wander through Bewdley’s charming streets and riverside, and soak up the history of this characterful town. From phantom footsteps to mischievous spirits, Worcestershire’s historic pubs are full of fascinating folklore and spooky stories. Why not plan your own haunted pub trail and discover these characterful inns for yourself? Just keep an eye out for any unexpected guests!
Don't forget that this October, discover Bewdley’s historic pubs with our digital pub trail, uncovering fascinating tales along the way. Complete the trail and, if you’re among the first 250 participants, you’ll receive a free limited-edition beer from Bewdley Brewery a true taste of Worcestershire!
Raise a glass to Worcestershire’s ghostly past
From phantom footsteps to mischievous spirits, Worcestershire’s historic pubs are full of fascinating folklore and spooky stories. Why not plan your own haunted pub trail and discover these characterful inns for yourself? Just keep an eye out for any unexpected guests!