The Bingley Arms

The Bingley Arms is an old pub in Bardsey, Leeds, which was originally called The Priests Inn.[1]

It is claimed to be the oldest pub in Britain, with a known history dating back to AD 953 and evidence suggesting it could date to AD 905. It is also said that it served as a safehouse for persecuted Catholic priests and also as a courthouse from around AD 1000, from which offenders were taken to the pillory across the road.

The pub is said to have been a scene of supernatural activity.[2] Apparently, ghosts of a musketeer, young girl and dog have been spotted at the pub.

Today the pub acts as a popular restaurant and is a former winner of the Yorkshire Evening Post Restaurant of the Year Award.

The beer garden is home to a yew tree which is said to pre-date the Bingley Arms itself.

Notes

  1. ^ Bingley Arms Website
  2. ^ Sona Web Blog