If you’re looking for a proper fright this Halloween, skip the ghost tours and head straight for a pint at Wales’ most haunted pub. About an hour’s drive from Cardiff, tucked away in Monmouthshire, you’ll find the Skirrid Mountain Inn, widely believed to be both the oldest and spookiest pub in Wales.
Dating back to the 12th century, the Skirrid has centuries of chilling history behind its old wooden beams. Once used as a courthouse and jail, legend has it that hundreds of prisoners were sentenced to death here. In fact, the original beam where executions took place still hangs behind the bar. It’s said the rope left its mark on the wood – and possibly on the pub itself.
Why it’s considered haunted
Plenty of stories have circulated about ghostly goings-on at the Skirrid. Visitors and staff have reported:
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Hushed voices and loud footsteps echoing down empty corridors
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Doors slamming shut with no one around
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Apparitions, including an 18th century barmaid called Fanny Price
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A general feeling of unease, especially upstairs in the guest rooms
If you’re brave enough, you can even stay the night. The inn has three rooms available, though bookings can only be made over the phone. Many guests have reported sleepless nights and encounters with things that go bump in the dark.
Our visit
We popped in on a crisp autumn day and managed to grab a seat in the modest beer garden out the back. With the sunshine breaking through, it felt more cosy than creepy. Inside though, it’s a different story.
The Skirrid is full of character, with old furniture, uneven stone floors, and that eerie hangman’s rope dangling as a grim reminder of its past. It really does feel like stepping back in time.
If you want to make more of your visit, Llanthony Priory is only a 15-minute drive away. Founded around 1118 by Norman knight William de Lacy, the priory ruins are nearly 900 years old and sit in the dramatic Vale of Ewyas in the Black Mountains. It’s a stunning spot for a walk before heading back for a pint (and maybe a few shivers) at the inn.
Practical bits
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To book a table or stay overnight, you’ll need to ring: 01873 890258
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The Skirrid Mountain Inn is located at Llanvihangel Crucorney, Abergavenny NP7 8DH
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Parking is available out the back, though it is limited
So, will you just enjoy a drink in Wales’ oldest inn – or dare to spend the night? One thing’s for sure: whether you’re after history, atmosphere, or a brush with the paranormal, the Skirrid Mountain Inn is the perfect place to visit this Halloween.
And if you want to know what it’s really like to stay the night somewhere haunted, we’ve already braved it. You can read about that experience here: We braved the night staying at Wales’ most haunted hotel.
