4 Ancient Pubs That Serve Up Charm in the English Countryside

No leisurely road trip through the Cotswolds would be complete without a stop or two (or five…) at an old English pub. Dating back to Roman times, the oldest “tabernae” were resting places and watering holes for the soldiers, workers and other travelers associated with the expansion of the empire into England.

In the fifth century, when Anglo-Saxons replaced the Romans, ales replaced the wine and “taverns” began to offer weary travelers lodging, as well as refreshment. The first attempt to regulate the increasingly-popular alehouses came from King Edgar in 957. Good try, Eddie.

After the Norman conquest in 1066, as cities and churches proliferated, inns began to appear along busy roads as monks from nearby monasteries established “hostelries” to provide bed and board to pilgrims and travelers, who, of course, would also partake of the local ale. By the mid 14th century, private and monastic taverns, inns and alehouses were formally regulated and taxed and by the mid 16th century there were more than 16,000 such establishments across England and Wales.

By the late 17th century, a new kind of establishment was born. Public Houses (pubs) were alehouses that were open to everyone, but without the muss and fuss or room and board. Eventually, the term “pub” came to describe most alehouses, taverns and inns as well. Pubs were important news, social and commercial centers and the heyday of English pubs lasted until the early 19th century, when politics and regulation changed the landscape dramatically.

So. How old are England’s oldest inns? Many claim to be over 1000 years old. According to legend, an inn in Cambridgeshire has been serving alcohol since 560. Do we believe in legend? One hundred percent. I’m a traveler, not a fact-checker. But if you want verifiable, the oldest inn with proof is The Porch House, certified as dating from 947.

Back to the Cotswolds. You need a car to really explore the villages and countryside and there are a few ancient pubs in the area that make for a lovely day trip.

The Porch House: Officially England’s oldest inn, visitors can still get a pint and a room here. In adorable Stow-on-the-Wold, this pub is worth a visit. While you’re there, check out the 16th century “witch’s marks” carved into one of the stone fireplaces – said to ward off evil spirits.

The Kings Arms: While you’re in Stow, check out the Kings Arms. A baby in comparison to the Porch House at only 500 years old, it’s still a gloriously old traditional pub. And you’re in the neighborhood anyway.

The Eight Bells Inn: Just up the road in Chipping Campden, you’ll find the Eight Bells Inn, founded in the 14th century and with much of it’s original hostelry vibe intact. Ask about its secret tunnel and have a pint with locals and travelers alike.

The George Inn: My husband and I stayed at the George Inn, which has been hosting guests since 1397. Off the beaten path, but near Bath and Stonehenge, it was the perfect spot for our last few days in England. Awarded Inn of the Year in 2024 and 2025, and boasting an award-winning chef, it’s simply a must-visit. Norton St. Philip oozes charm, and you might even catch a game of cricket from pub’s sunny outdoor seating area.

Sources
https://www.historic-uk.com/Blog/Twelve-Oldest-Inns-In-England/
https://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/The-Great-British-Pub/
https://www.history.co.uk/articles/the-history-of-british-pubs

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