Most haunted pubs to visit in Worcestershire this Halloween

From poltergeist-type mischief to baby cries filling the rafters of a pub on the same day each month, these Worcestershire-based pubs have been at the centre of paranormal activity over the centuries. 

Dr Paul Lee, who is part of the Scientific Study of Anomalous Phenomena, has studied the hauntings of pubs across the county and detailed spine-crawling ghost accounts in his latest book - UK Haunted Hospitality.

We have compiled a list of the most haunted pubs in Worcestershire, according to his book and the terrifying tales associated with each one. 

The Cardinal's Hat - Worcester

Where: Friar Street, WR1 2NA

HISTORIC: The Cardinal’s Hat is the oldest pub in Worcester. Pic. Jonathan BarryBeing the oldest pub in Worcester, it is no surprise that it has its fair share of hauntings. 

The most notable is a young girl in a white dress that often runs across the first and second floors and is blamed for many acts of ghostly mischief.

It is believed she may be the daughter of a former landlord who died on the first floor of the property when a fire broke out. 

The Oak - Upton Snodsbury

Where: Worcester Road, WR7 4NW

A baby crying followed by a scream can be heard throughout the pub on a specific date each month. 

It is believed that in the past, the baby's mother became so frustrated with her child's teething that she killed her baby by throwing it out of a window.

Ye Olde Talbot - Worcester

Where: Friar Street, WR1 2NA

Ye Olde Talbot in Worcester. (Image: Street View) A young woman can sometimes be seen lurking around the halls of Ye Olde Talbot and escaping out of one of its windows. 

A black cat is also usually seen at around 10 and 10.30am that looks what many have described as a "bundle of steel wool" that has previously frightened the bartender's dog.

The Crown and Sandys - Ombersley

Where: Main Road, WR9 0EW

The Crown and Sandys in Ombersley. (Image: Street View) Over the years, Poltergeist-type mischief has occurred across The Crown and Sandys, including a barman hearing his name called and footsteps in the cellar and in room three of the pub. 

A local legend, which fortunately has nothing to substantiate it, recalls the murder of three prostitutes in room three and the disappearance of the wealthy German guest who took them there. 

The Royal Oak - Evesham

Where: 5 Vine Street, WR11 4RE

Head chef, Carl Fox, along with manager Renata Goliszek from The Royal Oak. (Image: Carl Fox) There have been reports of an old grey sitting next to guests and a tall, slender shape walking down the stairs of The Royal Oak in Evesham.

The landlord has also recalled being pushed out of the way by an unknown source while visiting the seller. 

The Fleece Inn - Bretforton

Where: The Cross, WR11 7JE

The Fleece Inn in Bretforton. (Image: James Dobson/National Trust) The same family owned the pub from 1848 until 1977, and the last of their number, Lola Taplin, is believed to haunt this pub. 

Along with moving objects, the pub's clock is said to stop at 3am, when Lola passed away.

A few things have also been noted to be thrown around, and the pub is also known for having witch circles.