The Oldest Pub in England
Travel Distilled lists the contenders for the oldest pub in England, going back to 947AD… and possibly even longer.
The title of the oldest pub in England is up for debate, with several strong contenders.
The Oldest Pub in England
The Old Ferry Boat (St Ives, Cambridgeshire):
one of the oldest pubs in England
Claiming to have served alcohol since 560 AD, it’s mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1085 and has a strong historical presence. The pub’s charming thatched roof and stone walls contribute to its historic feel.
It offers a range of traditional pub fare, including Sunday roasts, and boasts a beautiful beer garden overlooking the River Great Ouse. Try the Beef and Ale Pie made with Ruddles Ale from Suffolk. They also have gluten-free menus. There are regular Board Game Nights and other events aimed at bringing people together.
The Porch House (Stow-on-the-Wold, Cotswolds):
The Porch House is authenticated by the Guinness Book of Records as England’s oldest inn, dating back to 947 AD. The inn’s name comes from the prominent porch that was added in 1615. This porch, along with the building’s stone walls and timber beams, contributes to its historic charm. Inside, the inn boasts a series of interconnected rooms, each with its own unique character. Some rooms feature exposed stone walls, while others showcase original artwork and antiques.
The Porch House is renowned for its fine dining experience. The menu features a selection of classic dishes, a range of burgers and delicious desserts. They always have gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options.
The George Inn (Norton St Philip, Somerset):
Claims a license to serve ale since 1397 and is considered Britain’s oldest tavern. The inn was originally built as a wool store for Hinton Priory and later became a popular stop for travelers on the route between Bath and London. It has hosted notable figures throughout history, including Samuel Pepys and Judge Jeffreys.
The George Inn is renowned for its charming atmosphere, with its timber-framed structure, open fireplaces, and low-beamed ceilings. The food menu features classic British dishes, made with locally sourced ingredients and done with great flair by Head Chef Aimie Harley, who was voted Salon Culinaire Pub Chef of the Year in 2024. The drinks list includes all the classic coktails and some interesting variations, like an Old Fashioned made with tequila rather than whisky.
In addition to its historical significance, The George Inn also offers comfortable accommodation in its 13 newly decorated bedrooms. This makes it an ideal base for exploring the picturesque village of Norton St. Philip and the surrounding countryside. Or you can sit in the Beer Garden and enjoy the beautiful views.
Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem (Nottingham)
Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem in Nottingham is another contender for the title of England’s oldest pub. It claims to have been established in 1189, making it a fascinating historical landmark.
The pub’s name is linked to the Crusades. Legend has it that King Richard the Lionheart and his knights gathered at this location before embarking on their journey to the Holy Land. The “Trip” in the name refers to a medieval waystation or resting place on a journey, rather than a modern-day trip.
The pub is built into the sandstone cliffs below Nottingham Castle, and its interior features a network of caves and tunnels that once served as a medieval malt house. These unique features, combined with the pub’s historical significance, create a truly atmospheric experience.
Ultimately, the “oldest” title depends on how you define it (continuous operation, original building, etc.), and whether you call it a pub an inn or a tavern, but it all makes for a fascinating debate, best argued over a pint in any one of the places listed.
Best Guide to England
The Rough Guide to ENGLAND covers: London, the Southeast, Hampshire, Dorset, Wiltshire, Oxford, the Cotswolds, Bath, Bristol, Somerset, Devon, Cornwall, East Anglia, West Midlands, Peak District, East Midlands, Northwest, Cumbria, Lake District, Yorkshire, Northeast.
Inside this England travel guide you’ll find:
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