The Skirrid Inn is one of the oldest and most haunted pubs in Wales, with a dark history of hangings, ghost stories, and centuries of folklore. Known for its eerie atmosphere and infamous hanging beam, it’s become one of the most iconic haunted locations in the country.
With over 900 years of history, The Skirrid Inn is Wales’ oldest pub, nestled in the atmospheric hills of Brecon Beacons National Park. Sometimes also known as The Skirrid Mountain Inn, this world-famous pub blends cosy charm with an eerie atmosphere thanks to its dark and interesting history.
We visited during the summer of 2026 on our stargazing and camping weekend in Wales. I planned our trip around the best spots to stargaze for the Perseids meteor shower, and was over the moon to discover that the Skirrid Inn was a mere 15 minutes away from our campsite. It felt like fate!
The Skirrid Inn, to me, was always one of those places I knew were right ‘up there’ in terms of being haunted – it was always a super iconic location for me that had been on my bucket list for so long. That said, I didn’t know much about it until I visited, as I usually choose to do the majority of my research after visiting somewhere haunted. I don’t want my experience swayed by knowing everything beforehand!
It turns out this historic inn has a lot to read up on – some of which you can learn about whilst there, with banners and newspaper clippings all about its dark history.
My Spooky Top 50 Challenge – Scary Skirrid Inn
🖤 Scary Skirrid Inn
📅 12th August 2025
The Skirrid Inn is one of the stops on my mission to visit Britain’s Top 50 Folklore & Superstition Locations. Known for its dark history of hangings and its reputation as one of the most haunted pubs in Wales, it’s long been one of the most iconic locations on my list.
What Is the Skirrid Inn?
The Skirrid Inn is one of Wales’ oldest (and most haunted!) pubs. As it stands today, it dates back to the 17th century – but its history goes back much further, making it around 900 years old. There are even theories that an inn stood on this site as early as the 12th century.
With its thick stone walls, exposed wooden beams, and huge fireplaces, stepping inside feels more like entering a medieval hall than a pub!
It’s named after the nearby mountain, The Skirrid (or Ysgyryd Fawr), which, in turn, translates to shake, split or tremble – referencing the mountain’s jagged appearance.
Despite seeming quite remote amongst the hills of Wales, there’s plenty to do nearby – you’ll find many historic churches in the surrounding area, and Monmouthshire itself is home to five Dark Sky Discovery Sites! It’s only around a ten-minute drive from Abergavenny – the ‘Gateway to Wales’ that sits right on the border.
People travel from far and wide to visit the inn – some looking for hearty food after a long hike in the surrounding mountains and others hoping to investigate the paranormal. By day, it’s a normal pub, serving tasty pub grub and a wide selection of beer. But by night, it’s far more eerie, oozing with dark history and character. Guests brave enough book onto a paranormal investigation, or stay overnight with the choice of three en-suite rooms.
The Skirrid Mountain Connection
The Skirrid Inn (also known as The Skirrid Mountain Inn) is named after the mountain it sits beneath – Skirrid Mountain. Skirrid Mountain isn’t just a dramatic backdrop – it’s part of the reason the Skirrid Inn feels so steeped in folklore. Local legend says the mountain was split in two at the moment of the crucifixion, creating the landslip you can still see today – but other stories claim the split was caused by a powerful bolt of lightning (as depicted on the inn’s sign today) or by the devil himself.
The name ‘Skirrid’ is derived from the Welsh ‘Ysgyryd’, which means to shake, tremble or split.
It’s clear how this landscape feeds into the Skirrid Inn’s reputation. With such a dramatic and historically significant backdrop right on its doorstep, the inn doesn’t just feel haunted because of its past, but because of where it’s set. The mountain, the history, and the folklore all seem to blend together here, making the atmosphere feel that bit more intense.
The Dark History of the Skirrid Inn: Hangings, Courts & Rebellion
The Skirrid Inn is a Grade II listed building which retains many of its historic features, such as an original studded oak front door believed to be some 1500 years old and the actual hanging beam used in executions between the 12th and 17th centuries.
The building has been a public meeting house from the very beginning, but during its history, it’s also been an alehouse and courthouse. At the time, it wasn’t unusual for inns like this to be used as local courts, particularly in rural areas where official buildings were limited. Between 1100 & 1485, the first floor was used as a courtroom, complete with the Judge’s retiring room. It’s believed up to 180 people were hanged here on site, meeting their fate at the bottom of the stairs. It’s said people were condemned in the courtroom, then led outside the room and straight to the hanging rope – and their death.
This wasn’t unusual for medieval Wales. Regions like Monmouthshire were often caught up in conflict, particularly during Welsh uprisings, when the area was under English control. At the time, justice was swift and brutal, and in periods of unrest, punishments were harsh. It wasn’t uncommon for executions to take place almost immediately after sentencing.
You can even see the original hanging beam to this day, still on display within the inn, as well as the base of the stairs where the remains were placed.
One of the most famous judges condemning prisoners here – and one of its most famous ghosts to this day? Judge George ‘Hanging’ Jeffreys. Best known for presiding over the Bloody Assizes in the 17th century, his legacy is as brutal as the stories surrounding the inn. He earned his nickname for the sheer number of death sentences he handed down, with hundreds executed during the Bloody Assizes alone.
The Hanging Beam
The hanging beam is one of the most infamous features of the Skirrid Inn, and it’s still on display today. It’s now been moved to a lower level, but the historic wooden beam still bears rope marks worn into the wood over time. It’s pretty grim.
It’s a small detail, but one that makes the inn’s history feel very real. It might take a moment to spot the marks, but once you do, it feels all the more unsettling. Standing beneath it and looking up to where the rope hangs today, I couldn’t help but think about how many people were executed in this very space, some for minor crimes like sheep stealing.
It felt incredibly out of place, especially compared to hanging pits and execution sites at darker places like haunted jails and historic spots around the UK. This otherwise cosy and warm pub, with its friendly staff and crackling fireplaces, feels completely at odds with a hanging rope and beam casually on display behind the bar.
It’s also this feature that sits at the centre of many of the inn’s ghost stories, with reports of strange activity often focused around the beam and the space surrounding it.
Skirrid Inn Ghost Stories: The Most Haunted Pub in Wales
The Skirrid Inn is often considered one of the most haunted pubs in Wales, with reports of multiple spirits seen throughout the building. What really sets it apart, though, is the sheer number of experiences reported here over the years. There have been so many reports that the inn is often featured in the media, and you can even see some of these newspaper clippings on display throughout the building.
Most Haunted, of course, visited in 2003 (season two, episode five), in an episode that also included a visit to the nearby St Michael’s Church. During the episode, they experienced drops in temperature, knocking sounds, and unexplained noises, particularly around the staircase and bar area. Most notably, the door to the Prisoner’s cell opened on its own, and the burglar alarm was triggered in Room 3 – despite not being set that evening.
Even the owners themselves have experienced a fair share of unexplained phenomena. Sharon has felt something tugging on her leg during the night (especially unsettling when you learn that, in some cases, relatives would pull on the legs of those being hanged to end their suffering). Elsewhere, Geoff once spotted a ‘coachman-like character in a tricorn hat’ that caught his eye in the porch before disappearing.
And, of course, there are reports of general poltergeist activity. Both staff and guests have reported objects moving of their own accord, from tables shifting across the floor to glasses being thrown and even money flying through the air.
Though he’s sceptical, Geoff still maintains the local tradition of leaving out the Pwcca Cup every night – a special tankard filled with ale to appease the devil.
The Hanging Judge
One of the most well-known spirits that haunts the pub belongs to ‘Hanging Judge’ George Jeffreys, who sentenced many to their death here at the inn when it was used as a courthouse. His dominant male presence is often seen as a shadowy figure around the upper floor, which was the former courtroom area. People also report cold spots, the feeling of being watched and a strong, oppressive atmosphere when he’s around.
Some visitors have described the space as feeling particularly heavy, especially when standing near where the courtroom once stood. Others have reported sudden drops in temperature and an overwhelming sense of unease, as if something is watching from just out of sight. Given his reputation for handing down harsh sentences, it’s perhaps not surprising that his presence is often described as one of the most intense within the inn.
Fanny Price
Former landlady Fanny Price is also a famous spirit that resides at the Skirrid Inn. In fact, her grave can be found in St Michael’s Church’s graveyard, which is practically next door! So we have proof that she did exist, although we don’t know her exact date or cause of death. She died relatively young, in her 30s. She is thought to have died in the 1870s in the smallest bedroom at the inn, likely from tuberculosis.
She’s most spotted in and around Room 3 (quite possibly the room she died in) and is known to be much more friendly and gentle compared to George Jeffreys’ spirit! She’s often associated with the scent of lavender and the sound of rustling fabric.
Another male spirit that haunts the inn could be Harry Price – a relative of Fanny. He’s been spotted marching along the cobbles outside the inn or can be heard banging inside the chimney.
The Condemned Prisoners
Much of the reported phenomena is thought to come from the spirits of those condemned here at the Skirrid Inn. The staircase – where you’ll find the rope and hanging beam – experiences the most unexplained phenomena, from tugging at clothing to disembodied footsteps on the staircase. People also report the sensation of being choked…
Even today, experiences like this are still being shared. One person in my Facebook group, Haunted & Hidden Britain, described spending the night at the inn and encountering several cold spots, along with a deeply uneasy atmosphere in one of the upstairs rooms. They said they couldn’t sleep at all, and even years later, returning during the day and passing the hanging beam still made them feel unsettled.
From poltergeist activity to infamous ghosts like Fanny Price and Hanging Judge Jeffreys, it’s no wonder the Skirrid Inn has a reputation as one of the most haunted pubs in Wales.
My Experience at the Skirrid Inn
Walking into the Skirrid Inn for the first time felt like stepping back in time. Pushing open the large, heavy oak door, I was met by the scent of tasty traditional pub grub and people drinking and chatting around wobbly wooden tables. It felt exactly how you’d imagine an old medieval inn or castle.
It’s one of those places where everyone knows it’s haunted, and people really lean into that. From leafing through the guestbook signed by Derek Acorah himself to reading the many newspaper clippings throughout the building, there was a definite sense of excitement, knowing we were standing somewhere really historic and important.
We visited during the day for a quick drink, then settled there for dinner the following evening when it was a little quieter. Both times had that unique atmosphere of wondering if we would see or experience anything spooky. I loved it in particular, just knowing that I was visiting somewhere so iconic on every ghost hunter’s bucket list!
The food was genuinely really tasty, and the staff were friendly too. I’d love to come back one day to do an investigation and stay overnight.
We didn’t experience anything spooky this time around, but we had only stopped for a visit. We did take some time to walk around and explore, though, and we both found it absolutely fascinating. Hauntings aside, it’s a place rich in history, and it was so great walking around each room and thinking about all the history that had taken place there.
It’s also the type of place where there’s an interesting tidbit or ancient artefact around every corner – there was always something to spot and learn about, from the prisoner’s cell to the Famous Grouse plaque behind the bar.
The hanging beam itself (and rope) is certainly an eerie spot. It felt especially strange that, even on a busy day with lots of people around, we were the only ones really interested in seeing it. And when we did, it kind of felt like the rest of the world had fallen away. Even with groups of people both inside and outside in the pub garden, no one really seemed to pass by us as we took it all in. It meant we really had a moment to ourselves and to take in the atmosphere. It definitely felt sad and solemn.
Even without experiencing anything paranormal, it’s the kind of place that just feels haunted through and through. It’s easy to see why it’s considered the most haunted pub in Wales.
Spooky Tips for Visiting
From ghost investigations and paranormal experiences to hearty food after hiking the surrounding hills, the Skirrid Inn is well worth stopping for. Here’s everything you need to know before visiting:
Location: The Skirrid Inn is located just outside Abergavenny in Monmouthshire, South Wales, at the foot of Skirrid Mountain. It’s easy to find and well signposted.
Getting There: The easiest way to reach the Skirrid Inn is by car, just a short drive from Abergavenny town centre, with parking available on site. If travelling by public transport, Abergavenny train station is the nearest, followed by a short taxi ride.
Nearby: The inn sits right at the base of Skirrid Mountain, making it a great stop if you’re planning a hike. Abergavenny itself is just a few minutes away, with plenty of shops, cafés, and historic spots to explore. I’d also recommend visiting the beautiful St Issui’s Church (complete with its own doom painting inside) and St Martin’s Church – the most crooked church in Britain!
Opening Times: The Skirrid Inn is open daily, with food served at set times throughout the day. Opening hours can vary slightly, so it’s best to check ahead if you’re planning a visit.
Accessibility: Due to the building’s age, some areas of the inn may be uneven or more difficult to access. It’s worth checking ahead if you have specific accessibility requirements.
Cost: Food and drink are reasonably priced for a traditional pub setting. Overnight stays are available, with rooms varying depending on size and availability.
Special Events: The Skirrid Inn is well known for its paranormal reputation and has been featured on shows like Most Haunted. While it doesn’t operate as a dedicated investigation venue, the atmosphere alone makes it a popular stop for ghost hunters.
Extra Tips: Take some time to look around, as there are plenty of historic features and details hidden throughout the building. The hanging beam is easy to miss if you don’t know where to look, so keep an eye out. Even if you don’t experience anything paranormal, the atmosphere alone makes it worth the visit.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Skirrid Inn
If you’re thinking of visiting this iconic inn, here are some frequently asked questions to help you prepare for your trip.
Is the Skirrid Inn Haunted?
The Skirrid Inn is haunted by the spirits of Hanging Judge Jeffreys, former landlady Fanny Price, and condemned prisoners. It’s also home to plenty of poltergeist activity and unexplained phenomena.
How Old Is the Skirrid Inn?
The Skirrid Inn is around 900 years old. As it stands today, it dates back to the 17th century, but it’s believed an inn has stood on this site as early as the 12th century.
Can You Stay Overnight?
If you’re brave enough, you can stay in any of three ensuite rooms at the inn – two with four-poster beds and one cottage bedroom. Alternatively, many ghost hunts offer overnight experiences with dinner included.
What Is the Story Behind the Skirrid Inn?
The Skirrid Inn is one of the oldest pubs in Wales, with a history that stretches back centuries. Over the years, it’s been used as a courthouse, where prisoners were tried, sentenced, and executed on site, with the hanging beam still visible today.
It’s also home to stories of brutal medieval justice and hauntings linked to figures like Judge George ‘Hanging’ Jeffreys and former landlady Fanny Price. It’s this blend of history, legend, and reported paranormal activity that has made the inn one of the most haunted places in Wales.
Final Thoughts from a Morbid Tourist
Out of all the haunted pubs I’ve been to, The Skirrid Inn is right up there as one of my favourites. You can feel the history as soon as you step inside, and it’s just as warm and welcoming as it is eerie. The hanging rope and beam are a real standout feature, and it’s no surprise people come from far and wide to see it in person.
Sadly, I haven’t yet stayed overnight or experienced a paranormal investigation there, but it’s a must-visit for drinks and dinner. With its genuine history – not just spooky stories – it’s easy to see why it’s so popular with both ghost hunters and history buffs. It’s also the perfect spot to include on a dark tourism weekend in Wales.
Discover More Haunted Places in the UK
If you’re drawn to dark history and haunted locations, here are a few more places to explore across the UK:
Bodmin Jail | Clophill Church | Delapre Abbey | Hellfire Caves | Jamaica Inn | Kelvedon Hatch Secret Nuclear Bunker | Museum Of Curiosities | The Skirrid Inn
The Skirrid Inn
www.skirridinn.com
Llanvihangel Crucorney, Abergavenny, NP7 8DH
Free to visit, but definitely stop for lunch/dinner and a drink. Reasonably priced food, with mains ranging from £10-£15.
Toilets on site, free car park out back and dog-friendly bar area. Limited accessibility with uneven floors and dim lighting.
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