
Ye Olde Man and Scythe
Step into 1251 at Ye Olde Man and Scythe, one of Britain's oldest pubs, steeped in history and legend.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live music adds buzz

Ye Olde Man and Scythe
Best Time
Live music adds buzz

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into 1251 at Ye Olde Man and Scythe, one of Britain's oldest pubs, steeped in history and legend.
"A historic gem with character to burn, friendly staff, and delicious pasties!"

🍻 Chat with the Staff
Bar staff are super friendly and knowledgeable about the pub's rich history. Ask them anything!
🚶♂️ Watch Your Step!
The floors are uneven and original! Be mindful of your footing, especially after a pint. :athletic_shoe:

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 1,061 reviews
Type
Pub
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Earl of Derby's Chair
Inside the pub
See the chair where the Earl of Derby sat before his execution in 1651. A chilling piece of history!

13th Century Architecture
Throughout the pub
Marvel at original beams, flagstone floors, and a lack of right angles. It's like stepping into a time capsule!

Local Brews & Pasties
Bar and food counter
Savor a pint of Flat Cap cask ale and delicious hot pasties. A true taste of Bolton!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Step Back in Time
Ghostly Encounters?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🍻 Chat with the Staff
Bar staff are super friendly and knowledgeable about the pub's rich history. Ask them anything!
🚶♂️ Watch Your Step!
The floors are uneven and original! Be mindful of your footing, especially after a pint. :athletic_shoe:
Oldest pub in Greater Manchester, The Olde Boars Head?
I wanted to get everyone's thought on this. It's been know for sometime that The Old Wellington, built in 1552, in the city centre, is the oldest pub. But is that still the case if the building was fully dismantled and rebuilt in a different location? Also the building didn't…
😋 Don't Skip the Pasties
No full kitchen, but the hot cabinet pasties are surprisingly delicious and a great snack.
🎶 Catch Live Music
Weekends often feature live music, adding to the lively atmosphere. Check their schedule!
What’s the best pub, in terms of sheer excellent pubness, in the country?
Had a nice chat with a barman today, admiring the 16th-century beams and lack of right angles in the pub. Mad old brass stuff, pint mugs dangling from the ceiling. What pub in the UK is the best at being a bloody pub?
Tips
from all over the internet
🍻 Chat with the Staff
Bar staff are super friendly and knowledgeable about the pub's rich history. Ask them anything!
🚶♂️ Watch Your Step!
The floors are uneven and original! Be mindful of your footing, especially after a pint. :athletic_shoe:
😋 Don't Skip the Pasties
No full kitchen, but the hot cabinet pasties are surprisingly delicious and a great snack.
🎶 Catch Live Music
Weekends often feature live music, adding to the lively atmosphere. Check their schedule!
🍹 Try the Rhubarb Cider
This 7% cider is dangerously delicious and very more-ish. Be careful! :wine_glass:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Ye Olde Man and Scythe's incredible history and character, with many praising the friendly staff and good value for money. The traditional ales and delicious pasties are frequently highlighted as positives, though some note the uneven floors and lack of extensive food options.
"If you like your pubs with character you're gonna love this place...has it to burn. History aplenty, friendly staff, good range of beers (Flat Cap cask is spot on) and good value. No kitchen as such but the pasties from the hot cabinet are delicious - genius. Lively bar area but plenty of nooks and crannies, so if you want quiet you can have it. Thoroughly enjoyed it."
Greg Skellorn
"A historic pub dating back to 1251, making it one of the oldest in England. The interior is full of character, with multiple rooms and traditional features. Friendly staff and a good selection of drinks, including local ales. Live music is often featured on weekends, adding to the lively atmosphere. A must-visit for history enthusiasts and those seeking a traditional pub experience"
Patrik Krizek
"Oldest pub in Bolton apparently. I can believe it. Flagstone floor in the corridor. Olde, dark wood, multi room pub. Several cask ales on. Tried Flat Cap, brewed in Bolton. Very nice. Several lagers and ciders and usual bottled beers. Love old historic pubs like this. Didn't try any food."
Jeremy Scott
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ye Olde Man and Scythe is located in Churchgate, Bolton. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options include local bus routes that stop close to the pub. If arriving by train, Bolton station is a short taxi or bus ride away.
Yes, the pub is a well-known landmark in Bolton. Its historic facade makes it stand out. Look for Churchgate, and you'll likely spot its distinctive architecture.
From Manchester, you can take a train to Bolton station, which is a direct and frequent service. From the station, it's a short bus or taxi ride to the pub. Driving is also an option, taking approximately 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Ye Olde Man and Scythe is a public house, so no tickets are required for entry. You can simply walk in and enjoy the atmosphere.
Opening hours can vary, but typically the pub is open from midday through the evening. It's always a good idea to check their social media or website for the most up-to-date hours, especially on public holidays.
There is no admission fee to enter Ye Olde Man and Scythe. You pay for your drinks and any food you order.
While you can't typically book tables in advance for casual visits, the pub has many nooks and crannies. If you're visiting with a larger group or during peak times, arriving earlier is recommended.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the historic interior, including the Earl of Derby's chair, original beams, and flagstone floors. Enjoy a wide selection of real ales and local brews.
Legend says the pub is haunted! Many visitors report a unique atmosphere, and some claim to have experienced paranormal activity. It adds to the mystique!
It's a traditional, historic pub with a lively yet cozy atmosphere. Expect characterful decor, friendly patrons, and a genuine pub experience.
Information on outdoor seating is limited, but the focus is primarily on the unique indoor historical experience. It's best to enjoy the interior charm.
Due to its age and historic nature, the pub has uneven floors and steps. Visitors with mobility issues may find it challenging to navigate.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there's no full kitchen, they offer delicious hot pasties from a cabinet, which are highly recommended. They're a perfect accompaniment to a pint.
The pasties are the main food offering. It's advisable to inquire directly with the staff about specific dietary options available on the day of your visit.
The pub is known for good value. Drinks, especially the local ales, are reasonably priced, and the pasties offer a tasty and affordable snack.
Generally, pubs do not allow outside food. It's best to purchase food and drinks directly from the establishment.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Ye Olde Man and Scythe. Capture the historic beams, the Earl of Derby's chair, and the unique atmosphere.
Focus on the ancient wooden beams, the flagstone corridors, the Earl of Derby's chair display, and the general ambiance of the multi-roomed interior.
While generally permitted, it's always polite to be mindful of other patrons and avoid intrusive photography, especially if people are dining or in private conversations.
Absolutely! The exterior itself is historic and photogenic, showcasing its age and character.











Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit