Haunted York England Pubs

Ghosts and Paranormal Activity in one of England's Oldest Cities

Nov 24, 2007

Hauntings and apparitions are present in many inns and public houses such as The Golden Fleece, The Black Swan, The Roman Bath and The White Swan

Public houses (pubs) and inns are rich in history in York. Many of them have been the scene of ghost sightings and unexplained happenings. York has been voted the world’s most haunted city by the Ghost Research Foundation International (GRFI) and based on the number of sightings, it is easy to understand why.

The Cock and Bottle Skeldergate York

It is believed the ghost of George Villiers, the second Duke of Buckingham, haunts this pub because his house once stood at that location. He lived during the reign of Charles II and was known to have many affairs with women. In fact, the nursery rhyme “Georgie Porgie” was all about George. His ghost is described as a man with long black wavy hair, large nose and wearing an embroidered outfit. He seems to be spotted by women only and has been known to fondle them.

The Black Swan Peaseholme Green York

Built in the 15th century as a family residence, this is the oldest pub in the city. Quite often, the ghost of a young lady in a long white dress can be seen staring into the fireplace. The spirit of a young man dressed in a bowler hat and Victorian era clothing is seen waiting for someone. Both of these apparitions are found in the bar area. On the main staircase, patrons have spotted the lower part of a man’s body.

The Golden Fleece Inn York

This is another old inn and it once belonged to the Merchant Adventurers in the early 16th century. These merchants operated the wool trade on the River Ouse. Two centuries later, the inn became the residence for John Peckett who was the mayor of York. The yard at the rear of the building is named after his wife, Lady Alice Peckett. Her ghost can be seen wandering the halls and staircases inside the inn. Other apparitions can be seen moving furniture. During World War II, a Canadian pilot fell out of an upstairs window. His ghost can be found in the bedroom where he stayed.

The Old White Swan Goodramgate York

This pub dates back to the 16th century and once was subdivided into several buildings. Quite often, patrons have seen several ghosts seated around an open fire engaged in conversation and laughter. It is believed these men were part of a secret society. Chairs are often rearranged into a circle overnight. Tables and chairs are sometimes seen moving. In one of the guest rooms, which is not rented to the public, furniture has been said to become airborne and crash. Guests have heard footsteps, muffled voices and seen a fire that re-ignites.

The Olde Starre lnn, Stonegate York

The basement was once used to house wounded soldiers during the Civil War. Screams and cries can be heard which are believed to be those of soldiers who underwent amputations. Two black cats are known to haunt the pub. The ghost of an old woman has been spotted on the stairs. Only children can see her.

Snickleway Inn Goodramgate York

Upstairs, a spirit is not seen but when she is around, people can smell lavender. In the basement, a ghost tampers with the beer taps. A young girl in Victorian clothing has been seen sitting on the steps. It is believed she was killed when a horse cart carrying beer ran over her on the street just outside the pub. She is known to be friendly, but the ghost in the basement has been termed as evil.

Punchbowl Public House York

At one time, the inn was a house of ill repute. The ghost of a young lady can be seen running room to room. It seems that this lady was assaulted and strangled by a drunken customer after she spurned him. There is also the spirit of a man who was the landlord of the house during the 19th century. He burned to death in a fire and seems to haunt the cellar and one of the bedrooms.

The Roman Bath St Sampson’s Square York

There were Roman baths once located in the basement. Patrons have heard the sound of water splashing and footsteps. One time, there was a bright light followed by the brief appearance of an apparition. Another time, a painter who was working in the entranceway felt the presence of a spirit; he promptly left and never came back.

Many ghost tours are conducted nightly at York. You never know what you may see. From a secret society to a lady of the night to injured soldiers, they have all been seen or heard. Be careful where you spend the night or have an evening of food and drink!

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The copyright of the article Haunted York England Pubs in Ghosts & Hauntings is owned by Maureen K. Fleury. Permission to republish Haunted York England Pubs must be granted by the author in writing.