Bolton's Oldest pub, 4th Oldest Pub in Britain, 5th oldest in the world and proudly serving a wide range of Ciders and Real Ales since 1251
Ye Olde Man and Scythe in Bolton has one of the bloodiest pasts of any pub on our list. Its name was first recorded in 1251, making it one of the longest-running establishments in the UK. A cursory glance on Youtube throws up a series of Most Haunted-style clips of moving shadows and terrified paranormal professionals.
James Stanley, the seventh Earl of Derby, was executed outside the premises in 1651, and is said to haunt the pub today.
Well, that is until 2016, when the story got even weirder. Chinese artist Lu Pinguyan claims he stole the ghost in an act of protest against England’s colonialist past. Landlord Richard Greenwood even wrote to the artist to demand the late Earl’s safe return.
It seems Stanley is back at the gaff, however, as another ghost sighting was recorded in 2018. Then again, it could have been a different ghost.
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Excellent historic pub, some of the walls date back to the 13th century. Reputedly haunted. The pub is located on Churchgate, the site of the Bolton massacre of 1644 and execution of the Earl of Derby in 1651 - family of the Earl of Derby owned The Man and Scythe pub at the time. Low beamed ceilings, interior divided into smallish rooms, good real ales served on tap by staff with character!
Friendly and ancient pub with a fascinating history and a lively present! Adored excellent hot local Carr's pasties being for sale at the bar. Good cider, well priced and cosy without being gentrified. Love reading all the historical snippets about the place but no sign of the reputed ghosts... The events they have on look good as well-we need more pubs like this!
Ye Olde Man & Scythe is the oldest pub in Bolton and one of the ten oldest public houses in Britain. The earliest recorded mention of its name is in a charter from 1251, which means that it is over 770 years old. The oldest room in the pub contains a display including the original chair that the Earl of Derby supposedly sat on before being taken outside to be beheaded; its inscription reads "15th October 1651 In this chair James 7th Earl of Derby sat at the Man and Scythe Inn, Churchgate, Bolton immediately prior to his execution". The pub has been modernized over time, but the charm still remains. The staff were wonderful and the Real Ale was good condition. Highly recommended for a visit, if you are in the area.
What an absolutely cracking pub that this is. It just has that classic old pub feel to it that can be hard to find these days. It’s a very old building and it looks so nice inside. Abit like a inn during the bygone days. I would recommend it to anyone looking to wet their whistle with a nice cold alcoholic beverage.
Very historic pub in Bolton, if you come here you're generally expected to order cider, though there are many alternatives available. Their most popular drink is cloudy Thatcher's which should be consumed with caution. Regular live music and jam nights along with the authentic old pub interior make for a welcoming place for young and old!
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Opening Times
Mon | 11:00 – 23:00 |
Tue | 11:00 – 23:00 |
Wed | 11:00 – 23:00 |
Thur | 11:00 – 23:00 |
Fri | 11:00 – 00:30 |
Sat | 11:00 – 00:30 |
Sun | 12:00 – 23:00 |
Sorry, we don't have any menus listed at the moment.