The Old Red Crow, nestled in the heart of the City of London, dates back to the 16th century. Originally constructed as a merchant’s house in 1546, it was converted into a tavern in the early 1600s. The building survived the Great Fire of London in 1666, making it one of the oldest structures in the area.

During the 18th century, the tavern gained notoriety as a gathering place for highwaymen and smugglers. It was said that secret tunnels beneath the building were used to transport contraband and aid in quick escapes.

The Old Red Crow has a rich history of reported paranormal activity. One of the most frequently sighted apparitions is that of a young barmaid from the Victorian era, who is said to have been murdered by a jealous admirer. Witnesses have described seeing her ghostly figure moving behind the bar or ascending the staircase.

Another well-documented spirit is that of a Cavalier soldier from the English Civil War period. Staff and patrons have reported hearing the sound of boots walking across the upper floors when the building is empty, and some claim to have seen his full-bodied apparition in period dress.

In the cellar, numerous people have experienced an oppressive atmosphere and the sensation of being watched. Some have reported seeing the shadowy figure of a man believed to be a former owner who died in a fire in the early 1800s.

The Old Red Crow’s most infamous paranormal occurrence is the “Screaming Skull” phenomenon. On certain nights, particularly during full moons, witnesses claim to hear blood-curdling screams emanating from the walls, believed to be connected to a skull allegedly buried within the building’s structure during its construction.