Most Haunted Pubs in London
The Travel Pages lists the contenders for the most haunted pub in London, from Jack the Ripper’s murder victims to the ghost of highwayman Dick Turpin.
The Candidates for the Most Haunted Pub in London
London, with its rich and often bloody history, is home to countless haunted locations, and its pubs are no exception. Many historic taverns claim supernatural activity, from ghostly apparitions to unexplained noises. Below are some of the strongest contenders for the title of London’s most haunted pub.
1. The Ten Bells, Spitalfields
Linked to the Jack the Ripper murders, The Ten Bells is said to be haunted by the spirits of his victims, particularly Annie Chapman and Mary Kelly. Patrons and staff have reported seeing a woman in Victorian dress, hearing phantom footsteps, and feeling sudden drops in temperature. The pub’s proximity to the Ripper’s crimes adds to its eerie reputation.
Address: 84 Commercial St, London E1 6LY
Phone: +44 (0)20 7247 7532
Website: tenbells.com
Nearest Tube: Liverpool Street (Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, Elizabeth lines)
2. The Grenadier, Belgravia
Tucked away in a quiet mews, The Grenadier is famed for the ghost of a young guardsman who was beaten to death after cheating at cards. His spirit is said to knock over objects, slam doors, and even leave bloody footprints. Visitors often leave money pinned to the ceiling to appease him, and paranormal investigators frequently visit.
Address: 18 Wilton Row, London SW1X 7NR
Phone: +44 (0)20 7235 3074
Website: grenadierbelgravia.com
Nearest Tube: Hyde Park Corner (Piccadilly Line) or Knightsbridge (Piccadilly Line)
3. The Spaniards Inn, Hampstead
Dating back to 1585, this historic pub is said to be haunted by highwayman Dick Turpin, who allegedly used it as a hideout. His ghost has been seen near the fireplace, and other spirits include a Spanish barmaid and a phantom coach outside. The pub’s old-world charm and dark history make it a hotspot for ghost hunters.
Address: Spaniards Rd, London NW3 7JJ
Phone: +44 (0)20 8731 8406
Website: thespaniardshampstead.co.uk
Nearest Tube: Hampstead (Northern Line) or Golders Green (Northern Line), then a short bus ride.
4. The Viaduct Tavern, Holborn
Built near the site of the old Newgate Prison, The Viaduct Tavern is rumored to be haunted by executed prisoners. Staff have reported glasses smashing by themselves, shadowy figures, and the sound of chains dragging—possibly echoes of its grim past. The cellar, once part of the prison, is particularly active.
Address: 126 Newgate St, London EC1A 7AA
Phone: +44 (0)20 7600 1863
Website: viaducttavern.co.uk
Nearest Tube: St. Paul’s (Central Line)
5. The Flask, Highgate
Highgate has long been associated with ghosts, and The Flask is no exception. A spectral woman in white has been seen in the upstairs rooms, believed to be the spirit of a barmaid who hanged herself after a tragic love affair. Others report a cavalier wandering the halls and unexplained cold spots.
Address: 77 Highgate West Hill, London N6 6BU
Phone: +44 (0)20 8348 7346
Website: theflaskhighgate.com
Nearest Tube: Highgate (Northern Line)
6. The Prospect of Whitby, Wapping
London’s oldest riverside pub, dating back to 1520, has a dark history of pirates, smugglers, and executions. The ghost of Judge Jeffreys, the “Hanging Judge,” is said to linger, along with the apparition of a hanged man outside. The pub’s creaking floorboards and shadowy corners add to its haunted aura.
Address: 57 Wapping Wall, London E1W 3SH
Phone: +44 (0)20 7481 1095
Website: greeneking.co.uk
Nearest Tube: Wapping (Overground)
Conclusion
While many London pubs boast ghostly legends, The Grenadier and The Ten Bells stand out due to their well-documented hauntings and tragic histories. Whether it’s the tortured soldier of The Grenadier or the Ripper’s victims at The Ten Bells, these pubs offer a chilling glimpse into London’s supernatural past. For those brave enough to visit, a ghostly encounter might just be part of the experience.
Your Pick of London Pub Guides
RECENT POSTS
