If you’re looking for a chilling yet charming spot to get into the Halloween spirit this October, look no further than York’s oldest pub, Ye Olde Starre Inne. With its rich history and eerie atmosphere, it’s the perfect place for anyone who enjoys a pint with a side of ghostly intrigue. And this year, visitors can also indulge in a limited-edition Halloween beer, making it an experience to remember.
Ghostly Goings-On
Ye Olde Starre Inne isn’t just York’s oldest pub, dating back to at least 1644; it’s also one of the most haunted! This iconic pub is steeped in supernatural tales, from mysterious lights flickering on their own to chairs moving unexpectedly, not to mention the strange noises that echo through the night. These spooky happenings are all part of the pub’s unique charm.
One of the pub’s most chilling stories dates back to the English Civil War, when its cellars were used as a makeshift hospital for wounded Royalist soldiers. Some say that even today, the harrowing cries of these long-gone soldiers can still be heard echoing from the depths below.
And then there’s the tragic tale from World War I, when a soldier promised his sweetheart they would reunite at Ye Olde Starre Inne after the war. Sadly, the soldier never returned, and both lovers are said to roam the bar, forever searching for one another.
Not all ghosts at Ye Olde Starre Inne are human, though. Two black cats are frequently “spotted” darting through the rooms, though no one has ever managed to pet them! Legend has it these spectral cats were entombed in the walls centuries ago to protect the building from fire and misfortune. Dogs visiting the pub often growl at a particular wall – could they be sensing something that we can’t see?
A Spooky New Brew
To celebrate Halloween in style, the Ye Olde Starre Inne has launched a special seasonal beer that’s as dark and mysterious as the pub itself. Blood Hound, a 4.4% ABV chocolate blood-orange stout, blends the rich, velvety taste of chocolate with a zesty twist of blood orange. Brewed in collaboration with Greene King and Nethergate Brewery, this indulgent stout promises a deliciously haunting experience for those brave enough to try it.
Available exclusively at the pub until the end of October, Blood Hound is the perfect pint to sip as you soak up the spooky stories and eerie atmosphere. General Manager John Arnold says, “It’s always a great atmosphere at the pub, especially this time of year. We love celebrating Halloween here and the heritage of the pub. We look forward to welcoming our guests this October and encourage beer lovers to try a pint of Blood Hound while it’s here.”
Visit Ye Olde Starre Inne This October
Whether you’re drawn by the ghostly tales, the historical charm, or just the chance to enjoy a pint of Blood Hound, Ye Olde Starre Inne is the perfect Halloween destination. Step into this centuries-old pub, and who knows – you might just encounter a ghost or two!
For more information or to plan your visit, head to Ye Olde Starre Inne. But beware, once you step inside, you may never want to leave…
