While the world’s oldest bar is a hotly-contested title, there’s no denying that “oldest pub” is an equally sought-after accolade, shared by many boozers scattered around the British Isles.
We have listed 15, who claim to be the oldest watering holes in Britain, each with the documents to prove it.The UK’s publicans take the history of their premises extremely seriously, and fiercely contest each others’ claims to fame.
From centuries-old liquor licenses to name-checks in the Domesday book, scroll through to see which pubs make the best cases for being Britain’s oldest boozers.
Thorpe Hamlet, Norwich, NR3
Adam & Eve is a city centre pub in Norwich, England. It is located on Bishopgate, close to Norwich Cathedral, the Great Hospital and Norwich Crown Court. It is widely claimed to be the oldest pub in the city, with the earliest known reference made in 1249
Bardsey, Leeds, LS17
Located in the beautiful village of Bardsey, The Bingley Arms is no ordinary pub. It’s the original English pub - officially the oldest in Britain - dating back over 1000 years to a time when Vikings were conquering parts of the country and before England
Drymen, Glasgow, G63
If you are walking the West Highland Way, Rob Roy Way or lazily exploring the delights of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, you’ll soon discover there are few places more welcoming than The Clachan Inn on the beautiful village square of Drymen,
Stow On The Wold, Gloucestershire, GL54
We’ve carefully selected our bar range to ensure wide variety combining high quality, to suit all tastes. We have spirits, beers and wines from all over the world.The bar is open from 11am to 11pm every day but you can pop in for a coffee from 8am.
London WC2
Established in the 13th Century, The White Hart Inn on Drury Lane claims to be London’s oldest pub. Historical records show its first license was granted as early as 1216, and its place in the capital’s history makes it a hit with tourists.
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