10 of the World’s Oldest Pubs: A Journey Through Time
The world is filled with unique and historic establishments that have served as meeting points for generations, telling stories and preserving traditions. Among these are the oldest pubs, which stand as living testaments to human history and culture. These ancient venues have served countless travelers, local residents, and even royalty throughout their centuries-long existence. From England to Italy and beyond, let's explore 10 of the world’s oldest pubs and the fascinating tales they hold.
Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, Nottingham, UK - 825 Years Old (1189 AD)
Dates from: 1189 AD, 825 years old.
Claim to fame: Commonly accepted as England's oldest pub, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem traces its roots back to 1189 AD. The underground caves beneath the pub, built during the 12th century, have housed a drinking establishment since the time of the Crusades. While the main building was constructed later, the larger caverns below still serve as the pub's drinking rooms today.
Sean’s Bar, Athlone, Ireland - 1114 Years Old (900 AD)
Dates from: 900 AD, 1114 years old.
Claim to fame: According to Guinness Book of World Records, Sean’s Bar is the oldest bar in Ireland. Renovations in 1970 revealed the bar’s original walls were made of wattle and wicker, indicating its origins in the 10th century. Despite multiple renovations, it has been recorded for every one of its owners throughout its history, including a notable stint by Boy George in 1987.
The Brazen Head, Dublin, Ireland - 816 Years Old (1198 AD)
Dates from: 1198 AD, 816 years old.
Claim to fame: Famously mentioned in James Joyce’s Ulysses, The Brazen Head is one of the oldest pubs in Ireland. Established in 1198 AD as a coach house, it has evolved over the centuries and has been frequented by many notable figures such as James Joyce, Jonathan Swift, and even reportedly Robin Hood.
Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, New Orleans, USA - 292 Years Old (1722 AD)
Dates from: 1722 AD, 292 years old.
Claim to fame: Said to be the oldest structure used as a bar in the United States, Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar’s history is marked with intrigue. Once owned by notorious pirates Jean and Pierre Lafitte, who used it as a base for their smuggling operations, it has since been transformed into a unique bar that intertwines pirate legends with New Orleans traditions.
Old Ferry Boat, Holywell, St Ives, UK - 614 Years Old (1400 AD)
Dates from: 1400 AD, 614 years old.
Claim to fame: This riverside inn is believed to be haunted by the ghost of a jilted teenager named Juliet, who is said to have hanged herself and was buried on the site. The bar was later built on top of her grave, and a seance in the 1950s claimed to have contacted her spectral presence.
Ye Olde Man Scythe, Bolton, UK - 763 Years Old (1251 AD)
Dates from: 1251 AD, 763 years old.
Claim to fame: Nicknamed the “prince hostel” due to the many royal patrons who frequented it, Ye Olde Man Scythe has a dark history, having served as a crucial venue for trials and executions, most notably during the English Civil War. Despite several renovations, its cellar remains largely intact as a relic of its rich history.
Zum Riesen Mittenberg, Germany - 864 Years Old (1150 AD)
Dates from: 1150 AD, 864 years old.
Claim to fame: I nnertalled as the “oldest inn of Germany,” Zum Riesen Mittenberg has hosted many distinguished guests, including Emperor Frederick III, King Ludwig of Bavaria, and even the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley. However, its dark history includes several witch trials, and many landlords were sentenced to death as a result.
Al Brindisi, Ferrara, Italy - 914 Years Old (1100 AD)
Dates from: 1100 AD, 914 years old.
Claim to fame: Officially recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest “osteria,” Al Brindisi has welcomed valuable customers such as the Venetian artist Titian and Pope John Paul II. Famous astronomer Copernicus lived above the bar and often frequented it, even before he proposed that the sun was the center of the universe.
Cave Bar, Petra, Jordan - 2000 Years Old (14 AD)
Dates from: 14 AD, 2000 years old.
Claim to fame: Not technically the oldest operating bar, but set in one of the oldest locations, The Cave Bar is carved into a 2000-year-old Nabataean tomb. This unique establishment in Petra offers a one-of-a-kind drinking experience, celebrated for its stunning ancient architecture.
The Bingley Arms, Leeds, UK - 1061 Years Old (953 AD)
Dates from: 953 AD, 1061 years old.
Claim to fame: The oldest pub in England, The Bingley Arms was initially known as The Priest’s Inn, serving as a rest house for monks traveling between abbeys. It served as a safe haven and concealment point for Catholic priests during the period of the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII.
Conclusion
These 10 pubs represent the best of what the world has to offer in terms of historical significance, cultural depth, and sheer age. Each one tells a story of the evolving societies and customs that have shaped our world. Whether you're a history buff, a vintage enthusiast, or simply a lover of a good pint, these establishments are worth a visit. They are more than just bars; they are living testaments to human ingenuity and survival.