Some of the oldest bars in the world have stood the test of time, offering travelers a glimpse into history with each drink. These legendary establishments span centuries, surviving wars, revolutions, and countless patrons. Some date back over a thousand years and are still open today, serving drinks in the same spot. Join us on a journey through some of the world’s oldest, most storied bars.
Sean’s Bar – Athlone, Ireland
Sean’s Bar, located in Athlone, Ireland, is often celebrated as the oldest bar in the world. Established around 900 A.D., it’s nestled along the River Shannon, a prime spot for early travelers. The bar has been continuously operational, making it a rare gem in both age and tradition. Sean’s Bar preserves its history with ancient artifacts and a cozy, medieval atmosphere. Its original wattle and daub walls were uncovered during renovations, adding authenticity. Visitors today can enjoy a drink surrounded by centuries of history. Remarkably, it’s still an active pub, welcoming locals and tourists alike.
The Bingley Arms – Bardsey, England
The Bingley Arms in Bardsey, England, is one of the oldest pubs in Britain, with roots dating back to 953 A.D. This historic inn was initially known as “The Priests Inn” and served as a resting place for monks and travelers. Its location near Leeds offered a peaceful retreat for pilgrims over centuries. The inn holds secret tunnels that may have sheltered priests during times of persecution. Today, The Bingley Arms maintains its historical charm with original fireplaces and rustic beams. Amazingly, it still operates as a welcoming pub, rich in stories and old English hospitality.
Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem – Nottingham, England
Located beneath Nottingham Castle, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem claims to have been founded in 1189 A.D. This English bar is partially carved into the sandstone rock, giving it a mysterious, cave-like ambiance. Legend has it that crusaders, en route to the Holy Land, stopped here for a drink. The bar features medieval relics and historic decor, including a chair said to bring bad luck if you sit in it. It is still open and fully functional, providing a truly immersive historic pub experience. Visitors find the old world blended with English pub culture alive here.
The Brazen Head – Dublin, Ireland
The Brazen Head, Dublin’s oldest pub, was established in 1198 A.D. This bar boasts a lively atmosphere where locals and tourists gather for music, drinks, and history. The walls are adorned with records of famous patrons, including writers like James Joyce. Set near the River Liffey, it’s conveniently located for travelers exploring Dublin. The Brazen Head offers a traditional Irish pub experience with hearty food and folk music. It’s still active today, drawing crowds interested in its historical charm and Dublin’s legendary storytelling.
Ye Olde Man & Scythe – Bolton, England
Ye Olde Man & Scythe in Bolton, England, dates back to 1251 A.D., making it one of England’s oldest pubs. It has a storied past, linked to events during the English Civil War. The bar’s decor reflects its age, with vintage furniture and medieval touches. Legend has it that the pub is haunted, adding an eerie aspect to its history. The bar continues to serve patrons in a setting that feels like stepping back in time. Today, it remains fully operational, blending history with an authentic pub atmosphere.
Kyteler’s Inn – Kilkenny, Ireland
Kyteler’s Inn, founded in 1324 A.D. in Kilkenny, Ireland, carries a fascinating history linked to its founder, Alice Kyteler. Accused of witchcraft, Alice’s story gives the inn a mysterious allure. The bar is tucked into Kilkenny’s medieval town center, making it a popular historical spot. Its architecture and decor maintain a medieval feel, with stone walls and dark wood. Kyteler’s Inn still serves as a lively pub, offering traditional Irish food and drinks. It stands as a lasting tribute to its intriguing past and remains open to this day.
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese – London, England
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, established in 1538 A.D., is one of London’s most famous historic pubs. Located in Fleet Street, it has hosted literary greats like Charles Dickens and Samuel Johnson. The pub was rebuilt in 1667 after the Great Fire of London, though its medieval cellars remained intact. Its dimly lit, wood-paneled interior gives it a mysterious, timeless ambiance. Many rooms and narrow staircases make it feel like a labyrinth of history. This iconic pub is still active today, drawing both locals and tourists eager to experience its rich past.
The George Inn – Southwark, London, England
The George Inn, located in Southwark, London, dates back to 1676 A.D. and is the last galleried coaching inn in London. Once a rest stop for weary travelers, it has a long history tied to the city’s transport routes. The inn’s exterior features traditional timber and galleries, giving it a distinctive historic charm. The George has ties to Charles Dickens, who mentioned it in his writing. Today, it serves as a pub under the care of the National Trust, preserving its heritage. The George Inn remains fully operational, welcoming visitors to its historic interiors.
The White Horse Tavern – Newport, Rhode Island, USA
The White Horse Tavern in Newport, Rhode Island, was founded in 1673 A.D., making it the oldest bar in the United States. This colonial tavern has served as a meeting place for early American patriots. Located in Newport’s historic area, its structure maintains the colonial aesthetic with wood paneling and fireplaces. It’s known for its historical significance and classic American dining. The tavern still operates as a restaurant and pub, embracing its long-standing heritage. Visitors come for both its food and the rich history embedded in its walls.
Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar – New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, established around 1772 A.D., is a famous New Orleans landmark. Located on Bourbon Street, it’s one of the oldest structures in the city. The bar is rumored to have been a front for pirate Jean Lafitte’s smuggling operations. With its candle-lit, rustic interior, it offers a unique atmosphere unlike any other on Bourbon Street. Its structure has remained largely unchanged, giving it an authentic historical feel. Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar is still open, offering visitors a glimpse into New Orleans’ colorful past.
The Olde Angel Inn – Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada
The Olde Angel Inn, founded in 1789 A.D., is one of Canada’s oldest continuously operating inns. Located in the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, it has deep ties to the region’s colonial history. The inn is known for its vintage decor, including wooden beams and brick fireplaces. The Olde Angel Inn is reputedly haunted, adding to its allure among visitors. It still serves traditional pub fare and local beers, maintaining its historic atmosphere. The inn remains active, drawing patrons looking for a mix of history and classic hospitality.
The Eagle – Cambridge, England
The Eagle, established in 1667 A.D., is a historic pub located in the heart of Cambridge. Known for its RAF bar, where World War II pilots left graffiti, it carries a rich history connected to Cambridge University. The pub is famous for being the place where the discovery of DNA was first announced by scientists Crick and Watson. Its interior has retained much of its original charm, with wood-paneled walls and cozy seating. The Eagle still serves as a popular spot for students and tourists alike. It remains an active pub, celebrated for its ties to history and science.
Zum Franziskaner – Munich, Germany
Zum Franziskaner, located in Munich, Germany, was established in 1363 A.D. This iconic beer hall has a long tradition of serving Bavarian food and drinks. Its spacious interior and old-world decor offer an authentic German beer hall experience. Zum Franziskaner is beloved for its classic Bavarian dishes and welcoming atmosphere. Situated near Munich’s bustling Marienplatz, it’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The beer hall is still open today, preserving Munich’s brewing heritage in a historic setting.
The Old Ferry Boat Inn – Holywell, England
The Old Ferry Boat Inn in Holywell, England, is one of the oldest pubs in Britain, dating back to 1400 A.D. Located near the River Great Ouse, it has long been a stop for travelers and locals alike. The inn is steeped in legend, with tales of ghostly hauntings linked to a young woman buried on the property. Its quaint, historic interior includes exposed beams and a cozy, rustic ambiance. The inn’s riverside location makes it a peaceful retreat for guests. It remains open today, serving traditional English fare in a setting filled with centuries of history.
The Sheep Heid Inn – Edinburgh, Scotland
The Sheep Heid Inn, established in 1360 A.D., is Scotland’s oldest surviving pub. Situated in Edinburgh’s Duddingston village, it’s known for its rich history and unique charm. The pub features traditional decor, including a vintage skittles alley, which has entertained patrons for generations. Its name, “Sheep Heid,” reflects Scotland’s pastoral heritage, as shepherds were among its earliest visitors. The inn has been frequented by royalty, including Mary, Queen of Scots. The Sheep Heid Inn is still open and active, offering Scottish dishes and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and tourists alike.
The Olde Bell – Hurley, England
The Olde Bell in Hurley, England, dates back to 1135 A.D., making it one of the oldest coaching inns in the world. Located in the picturesque village of Hurley, it originally served as lodging for monks. Its medieval architecture, complete with wooden beams and stone floors, provides an authentic historical ambiance. The inn’s location near the River Thames made it an important stop for travelers and pilgrims. The Olde Bell has been modernized while preserving its historic charm. It continues to operate as a hotel and pub, drawing visitors for both its comfort and rich heritage.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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