The Red Lion Inn: A Haunted Gem in Avebury’s Ancient Landscape

Tucked away in the picturesque village of Avebury in Wiltshire, England, The Red Lion Inn stands as a testament to both the charm of rural hospitality and the eerie mysteries that lie beneath its historic walls. Voted one of the "10 most haunted pubs in the world," this Grade II listed building is famous not only for its cozy ambiance and welcoming atmosphere but also for the ghostly occurrences that have been reported over the years. What makes The Red Lion even more unique—and perhaps a little more chilling—is its location, surrounded by the ancient Avebury Stone Circles, which are more than 4,000 years old. Steeped in history and folklore, The Red Lion Inn is a place where the past and present collide, and where visitors can find themselves swept up in both its supernatural allure and its historic charm.

A Storied History

The history of The Red Lion Inn dates back centuries, with the building originally constructed in the 17th century as a farm. Situated in the heart of Avebury, a village renowned for its mysterious Neolithic stone circle—one of the largest of its kind in the world—the inn has witnessed the unfolding of significant historical events. The inn began its journey as a pub in 1802, a transformation that allowed it to become an essential part of the village’s social life.

Avebury itself is a site of monumental importance. The Avebury Stone Circles, older than both Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Giza, have long been the subject of fascination and mystery. These ancient stones, which once formed a vast ceremonial site, continue to draw archaeologists, historians, and tourists from all over the world. The proximity of The Red Lion to these prehistoric structures only adds to the pub’s aura of intrigue. Over time, the pub has become an integral part of the Avebury experience—both for those seeking the cozy warmth of a traditional English inn and for those hoping to catch a glimpse of the paranormal.

Ghostly Legends and Unexplained Phenomena

The Red Lion Inn’s haunted reputation stems from the numerous reports of ghostly sightings and eerie occurrences. One of the most famous tales is that of the ghostly coach and its four phantom horses. Witnesses have claimed that, around the stroke of midnight, they can hear the unmistakable sound of clattering hooves and the rattling of a coach approaching the inn. This sound is said to echo through the cobblestone streets, creating an unsettling atmosphere as the horses gallop towards the building.

But when curious onlookers rush to the window to investigate, there’s no one to be seen. The sound fades into the night, leaving only a lingering sense of unease. This ghostly procession is just one of the many paranormal events associated with The Red Lion, adding to the pub’s reputation as a place where the supernatural thrives. Some have even suggested that this mysterious coach may be linked to the ancient history of the area, with some speculating that it is a manifestation of the spirits tied to the nearby stone circles.

Beyond the ghostly coach, other supernatural occurrences have been reported at The Red Lion. Patrons and staff alike have claimed to hear unexplained footsteps in empty rooms, voices whispering from the shadows, and cold drafts in places where no windows or doors are open. Several individuals have also reported feeling a sudden chill, an eerie sense of being watched, or an overwhelming sense of dread while in certain parts of the pub. Whether these experiences are tied to the energy of the ancient stone circles or are simply the result of the inn’s long and storied history remains a topic of much debate.

The Avebury Stone Circles: A Connection to the Supernatural?

The location of The Red Lion Inn—within the shadow of the Avebury Stone Circles—is undoubtedly a key factor in its haunted reputation. These stone circles, constructed more than 4,000 years ago, have long been associated with mystical and spiritual significance. They are thought to have been used for ceremonial and religious purposes by Neolithic peoples, although their precise function remains a mystery.

Over the centuries, these ancient stones have inspired countless legends, many of which involve ghosts, spirits, and otherworldly forces. Some believe that the stones are a source of supernatural energy, a belief that is only strengthened by the ghostly phenomena that have been reported at The Red Lion. The stone circles’ proximity to the inn suggests that they may be connected to the paranormal occurrences in the area, with some theorists even suggesting that the spirits of those who once used the stones may be lingering in the landscape, their restless souls tied to the land.

Visitors to Avebury and The Red Lion often speak of a palpable sense of history and mystery in the air. Many who have ventured into the stone circles at night report strange sensations or feelings of being drawn to certain stones. The connection between the Avebury Stone Circles and the spirits of the past is one that has persisted for generations, and The Red Lion Inn—sitting at the heart of it all—has become a focal point for those seeking a direct link to the supernatural world.

A Pub Like No Other

Despite its haunted reputation, The Red Lion Inn continues to be a beloved pub and an important part of the Avebury community. Its rustic charm, crackling fires, and traditional fare make it a welcoming place for both locals and tourists alike. Visitors often come to enjoy the pub’s historic atmosphere, but they also come for the stories—the tales of ghosts and strange occurrences that seem to be woven into the very fabric of the building.

Whether or not one believes in ghosts, there’s no denying that The Red Lion Inn offers a unique experience. For those who are open to the supernatural, it’s an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of those who may still linger in the pub’s shadowy corners. For others, it’s a chance to enjoy a pint in one of England’s most historic and mysterious locations, knowing that they are sitting in the heart of a place where the past never quite lets go.

Conclusion: The Enduring Mystery of The Red Lion Inn

The Red Lion Inn in Avebury is not just a pub—it is a living piece of history, steeped in the mystery of the ancient stone circles that surround it. With its haunted reputation, strange occurrences, and connection to the distant past, The Red Lion continues to draw visitors who are both intrigued by its eerie tales and fascinated by its historical significance. Whether one is a skeptic or a believer, there’s no denying the unique charm of this ancient inn, where the past lingers on in the most unexpected ways.