10 Oldest Pubs Around the World That Are Worth a Visit

For centuries, pubs have served as a gathering place for locals and travelers to connect over a pint. Not only are they cozy places to drink beer, cider, or whiskey, but they’re also important community centers. While the concept of the pub may be (almost) as old as time, there are many historic pubs that still exist today, offering insights into our deep-rooted attachment to these spaces. We rounded up some of the world's oldest and most historic pubs – including a meeting place for our founding fathers and a tavern that dates back to 900 AD.

Sean's Bar (Athlone, Ireland) 

This pub dates back to 900 AD, and historians believe that it was frequented by Vikings. At well over a thousand years old, Sean's Bar in Athlone, Ireland, is not only beloved by locals but also holds the Guinness World Record for the oldest pub in Ireland. As the pub has been continuously popular with locals and tourists over the centuries, it has gone through numerous changes and ownerships. Currently, it is owned by the Flanagan family, who are committed to preserving its historic charm while serving copious quantities of beer and whiskey. For more information, visit their website.

Seven Stars (London, United Kingdom)

Originally constructed in the early 1600s, the Seven Stars pub located in Holborn has a completely preserved interior that offers glimpses into centuries past. Now, the pub still has the overall late Victorian interior decor, including wooden paneling, vintage light fixtures, and a cozy fireplace, further adding to its historical charm. Pro tip: Arrive early to secure a seat at this local favorite, as the pub fills up quickly as soon as the workday ends. For more information, visit their website.

The Green Dragon Tavern, (Boston, Massachusetts, USA) 

Dating back to 1654, this tavern is a beloved historic landmark, known for being a popular meeting place for the Founding Fathers and playing a significant role in the American Revolution and Boston Tea Party. Though the pub has undergone several renovations over the years, it still maintains its original charm with walls adorned with historic artifacts and memorabilia, including letters and documents from the Revolutionary era. Today, The Green Dragon Tavern offers a full array of Irish-American fare, including traditional New England seafood dishes, and an impressive selection of beer. For more information, visit their website.

The Merry Ploughboy (Dublin, Ireland)

This family-owned bar, formerly known as Doherty's, is a beloved spot in Dublin that’s been in operation since 1789. A group of musicians known as The Merry Ploughboys bought the pub in 2006, making it the first and only Irish bar owned and managed by musicians. With live music performances nearly every night, the space has transformed into an entertainment hub for Irish music and dancing shows. Though the pub has changed over the years, it still offers a variety of classic hearty dishes such as classic fish and chips and bacon and cabbage. For more information, visit their website.

Zum Franziskaner (Munich, Germany)

A family-run traditional beer hall located in the center of Munich, Germany, Zum Franziskaner is one of the oldest and most iconic pubs in the city. Established in 1363, the hall’s interior features rustic wooden tables and benches, adorned with Bavarian flags and decorations. Menu items like sauerkraut, weisswurst, and franziskaner mustard are complemented perfectly by the range of specialty beers brewed on site, served in the classic Maß, a one-liter mug. For more information, visit their website.

The Brazen Head (Dublin, Ireland)

Located in the heart of Dublin, the Brazen Head is an iconic pub that has been beloved for over 800 years. It is said to be one of the oldest pubs in Ireland (contested by Sean’s bar) and one of the oldest in the world, with its origins dating back to 1198. Additionally, the pub is situated on Bridge Street, the site of the original settlement that gave rise to Dublin. The pub's interior is decorated with traditional Irish fare, including wooden decor and beautiful exposed brick walls. In addition to its very homey atmosphere, The Brazen Head is also known for serving classic Irish dishes and drinks including hearty stews and a great deal of Guinness. For more information, visit their website.

The White Horse Tavern (Newport, Rhode Island, USA)

Located in Newport, Rhode Island, this tavern is a historic landmark that has been serving patrons since 1673. The White Horse Tavern holds a unique place in American history as the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the U.S., as well as ranking as the 10th oldest operating restaurant in the world. With its white clapboard walls, gambrel roof, colonial-style architecture, antique furnishings, and a roaring fireplace, this pub exudes a quaint charm. The tavern is known for its traditional New England fare, with menu items such as Rhode Island-style clam chowder, beef Wellington, and lobster bisque, as well as elevated offerings like caviar service. For more information, visit their website.

Ye Olde Mitre (London, United Kingdom)

This pub dates back to the 16th century when it was used as a tea room for the staff of the nearby Bishop of Ely Palace and is tucked away in an alley by the iconic Hatton Garden diamond district. Today, Ye Olde Mitre retains much of its original charm with low ceilings, wood paneling, and a cozy fireplace. The pub offers a selection of traditional British ales and ciders, as well as classic pub food, including meat pies and tons of toasties. For more information, visit their website.

The Eagle (Cambridge, United Kingdom)

The bar was first established in 1667, making it one of the oldest pubs in Cambridge. Originally called the Eagle and Child, inspired by the coat of arms of the Earls of Oxford, who were the pub's original landlords, the historic pub continues to be  popular with academics, students, and locals. It was at this pub that, in 1953, scientists Francis Crick and James Watson first announced their discovery of how DNA carries genetic information. Today, The Eagle remains a beloved institution, offering classic pub fare, a wide selection of drinks, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with its walls lined with photographs and memorabilia showcasing its fascinating history. For more information, visit their website.

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese (London, United Kingdom)

The Olde Cheshire Cheese is a historic pub housed in the heart of London. This iconic pub from the 16th century has played host to various famous literary figures such as Charles Dickens, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and Mark Twain. The tavern is notable for its maze-like layout with tons of hidden corners and nooks that can make visitors feel as though they've stumbled upon a secret hideaway. The pub is a destination for both locals and tourists, offering a wide selection of ale and other classic pub fare. For more information, visit their website.