Book a table and dine somewhere spooky this Halloween. Or raise a glass with ghosts at a haunted pub.

Norfolk has no shortage of supposedly haunted pubs, hotels and restaurants that you can visit… if you dare. Here are our Top 10, although the county is literally packed with spirits if you believe the history, folklore, and reports of eerie experiences:

Last Pub Standing, Norwich

This pub, named to reflect the fact that it’s the last of 58 original pubs still standing on King Street, is believed to be haunted by spirits tied to Norwich’s violent past. Some stories suggest that its location, close to former city walls and execution sites, might explain ghostly encounters.

They do have a friendly ghost, Mr.Harris, a former Drayman to the pub when it was called The Nags Head. Next time you are there, check out the corner by the door for a man wearing a cap, smoking a pipe and enjoying his pint…

Pub sign for the Last Pub Standing. Photo credit: Nimble.
Outside image of The Adam and Eve pub in Norwich.

Adam & Eve

Norwich’s oldest pub, dating back to the 13th century, is rumoured to be haunted by monks who once frequented the establishment. The pub’s most famous spirit is ‘Sam’ who is thought to be Edmund Sheffield, 1st Baron Sheffield. During Kett’s Rebellion in 1549, Edmund fought for the crown, but was struck down outside the Adam & Eve after falling from his horse. He was taken into the pub where he died from his wounds.

When visiting the Adam & Eve be prepared for sudden hot or cold spots, ruffled hair or a gentle tap, the pub’s last-call bell ringing by itself or the sound of phantom footsteps. Also, keep a close eye on object about the pub or your own keys left on a table, occasionally they will shift or move on their own.

The Buckinghamshire Arms, Blickling

Near the famously haunted Blickling Hall, with its links to Anne Boleyn, this pub is said to experience some of the same paranormal activity as the estate. Diners in the restaurant have reported odd noises and shadowy figures, possibly linked to the nearby hall’s hauntings.

The Buckinghamshire Arms at night. Image: The Buckinghamshire Arms.
The Gardeners Arms pub on Timber Hill in Norwich.

The Murderers, Norwich

Officially named The Gardeners Arms, this pub is linked to the tragic murder of the pub’s landlady’s daughter Millie in 1896. Millie’s spirit is said to linger, with many reports of cold spots and eerie happenings around the pub.

Maids Head Hotel, Norwich

This historic hotel, dating back over 800 years, has seen countless significant events, including visits from royalty. Several ghosts are said to haunt the hotel, could you be lucky enough to see The Jilted Bride who wanders the hallways, The Grey Maid dusting the Reception area, or the phantom of Thomas Anguish, a Merchant and Mayor, who is said to pace the corridors in deep distress, shaking his head before heading toward the restaurant area.

The Maid's Head Hotel in Norwich, viewed from a distance, through autumn leaves.
The courtyard of The Lamb Inn in Norwich. Photo: The Lamb Inn.

The Lamb Inn, Norwich

With its origins in the 17th century, The Lamb Inn is said to host spirits of former patrons and staff, with reports of strange footsteps, objects moving on their own, and unexplained cold drafts.

The pub’s most famous ghost is ‘The Story Telling Landlord’ John Aggas, who ran the Inn in the 1700s. In 1787, Aggas tragically tried to stop a violent dispute between his sister and her abusive husband, Timothy Hardy. Hardy brutally stabbed Aggas through the heart in the cellar. Aggas is a very friendly ghost, so if your see a man sitting by windows entertaining people with tales of fairies and goblins, you could have met John from the 1700s.

The Scole Inn, Diss

Considered one of the most haunted inns in the region. Dating back to the 17th century, this former coaching inn is steeped in history, and over the years, several ghostly legends have emerged. These include mysterious figures, ghostly children, moving objects, cold spots and unexplained noises.

The most famous being Emma ‘The White Lady’, she was brutally murdered by her husband because he mistakenly believed she was having an affair with a highwayman staying at the Inn. Emma appears in a sorrowful state wearing a grey or white dress and bonnet, crying on the grand staircase and in the bar area.

Apparently, if you crave for an eventful night try room 12…

Outside image of The Scole Inn, Diss. Image: The Scole Inn.
Sign on the exterior wall of The Coachmakers, Norwich.

The Coachmakers Arms, Norwich

This pub has ghostly tales linked to a brash highwayman spotted standing quietly at the far end of the bar and a woman in black, who seems to enjoy pushing things off shelves and tables.

Lollards Pit, Norwich

Historically a site of execution for heretics during the 16th century, Lollards Pit is said to be haunted by the tormented souls of those burned alive for their religious beliefs, with locals claiming to see shadowy figures and hear anguished cries.

Outside image of Lollards Pit in Norwich. Image: Lollards Pit.
Doorway leading in to Cinema City in Norwich.

Cinema City Bar & Kitchen, Norwich

Located in Suckling House, which dates back to the 14th century, this has a long history that lends itself to various ghostly tales.
The most famous ghost said to haunt Cinema City is the figure of a woman, often reported in the older parts of the building. Some believe she could be connected to the Suckling family, former residents of the house. People have reported sightings of her dressed in period clothing, especially near the mediaeval hall and the courtyard. Others claim to have experienced strange cold spots, disembodied footsteps, and a general eerie feeling when walking through certain areas of the building.

Oh, and did we mention Andrew’s own experience with a Cinema City spook?

These haunted eateries, bars and inns offer more than just a meal or a bed for the night – they come with a side of spooky experiences – making them perfect destinations for those interested in the paranormal!

Sleep tight…