Ye Olde Man and Scythe
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Ye Olde Man and Scythe

4.6
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Live music adds buzz

CrowdMedium
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Ye Olde Man and Scythe

Ye Olde Man and Scythe

Best Time

Weekends

Live music adds buzz

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(1k reviews)

"A historic gem with character to burn, friendly staff, and delicious pasties!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🍻 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:

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.6 · 1,061 reviews

Type

Pub

♿ Wheelchair accessible

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Earl of Derby's Chair

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

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

Local Brews & Pasties

Bar and food counter

Savor a pint of Flat Cap cask ale and delicious hot pasties. A true taste of Bolton!

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Planning Your Visit

Step Back in Time

Experience a pub that's been serving pints since 1251! This historic gem offers a genuine taste of old England. Be prepared for a unique atmosphere with uneven floors and cozy nooks.

Ghostly Encounters?

Legend has it this ancient pub is haunted! While staff are friendly and informative, some visitors report eerie feelings. Embrace the history and maybe even a spectral guest.

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Live music adds buzz
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter historical exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The pub Ye Olde Man & Scythe was open in Bolton in 1251 and is the 4th oldest pub of the UK and one of the oldest in the world . It is a pretty pub, in great conditions but legend says that it is haunted by ghosts. #yeoldemanandscythe #pub #bolton #manchester #england
konryxx
4 likes • 206 views

🍻 Chat with the Staff

Bar staff are super friendly and knowledgeable about the pub's rich history. Ask them anything! Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Watch Your Step!

The floors are uneven and original! Be mindful of your footing, especially after a pint. :athletic_shoe:

Bu pub 1251’den beri ayakta! Bolton’un kalbinde, 1251’den bu yana ayakta duran Ye Olde Man & Scythe’de bir yudum tarih 🍺 Bugün barda bana eşlik eden: yerelin gururu Bank Top Brewery’nin Flat Cap’i. Her yudumda hem geçmişin mirası hem bugünün craft ruhu birleşiyor. Tarih kokan duvarların içinde modern bir damak yolculuğu. 🍻✨ #BugünBirAradayız #Bolton #YeOldeManAndScythe #HistoricPub #OldestPub...
bugunbiraradayiz
0 likes • 1.8K views
reddit.com

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. Reddit

🎶 Catch Live Music

Weekends often feature live music, adding to the lively atmosphere. Check their schedule! Reddit

reddit.com

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! Reddit

🚶‍♂️ 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. Reddit

🎶 Catch Live Music

Weekends often feature live music, adding to the lively atmosphere. Check their schedule! Reddit

🍹 Try the Rhubarb Cider

This 7% cider is dangerously delicious and very more-ish. Be careful! :wine_glass:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

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

Rich history and character
Friendly and informative staff
Good value real ales

What People Dislike

Uneven floors
Limited food menu

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Instagram

There is no admission fee to enter Ye Olde Man and Scythe. You pay for your drinks and any food you order. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. TikTokReddit

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! TikTok

It's a traditional, historic pub with a lively yet cozy atmosphere. Expect characterful decor, friendly patrons, and a genuine pub experience. InstagramReddit

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. TikTok

Due to its age and historic nature, the pub has uneven floors and steps. Visitors with mobility issues may find it challenging to navigate. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

The pub is known for good value. Drinks, especially the local ales, are reasonably priced, and the pasties offer a tasty and affordable snack. Reddit

Generally, pubs do not allow outside food. It's best to purchase food and drinks directly from the establishment. Reddit

📸 📸 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. TikTok

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. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit

Absolutely! The exterior itself is historic and photogenic, showcasing its age and character. TikTok

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