The Old Nag's Head

The Old Nag’s Head in Manchester’s city center has been serving customers since the 18th century and has accumulated a haunting reputation to match its age. The pub’s primary ghost is that of a spectral barmaid, seen wearing period clothing from the Victorian era. She appears to be going about her duties, pulling pints and wiping tables, seemingly unaware that she is no longer among the living.

Witnesses describe encountering the ghostly barmaid during quiet hours, particularly in early mornings and late evenings after closing. She appears solid and real until someone attempts to speak to her, at which point she either vanishes instantly or slowly fades away. Some staff members have reported seeing her so frequently that they’ve become accustomed to her presence, occasionally greeting her out of habit.

The pub experiences additional paranormal phenomena including the sound of footsteps on the upper floors when the building is empty, glasses moving on their own, and the feeling of being watched from dark corners. The cellar is particularly active, with deliverymen and staff reporting cold spots, unexplained shadows, and the sensation of walking through invisible barriers. Some witnesses have reported hearing a woman humming old folk songs when no source can be identified. The Old Nag’s Head’s position in central Manchester, on a site with centuries of history, may contribute to its haunted atmosphere. The spectral barmaid has become something of a mascot for the establishment, with regular customers sharing their own encounters and experiences.