The Three Pilchards is a historic pub located in the picturesque fishing village of Polperro, Cornwall, England. Dating back to the 16th century, this establishment has been a central part of Polperro’s community for centuries. The pub’s name is derived from the pilchard fishing industry that once thrived in the area.

During the 18th and early 19th centuries, The Three Pilchards played a significant role in Polperro’s smuggling activities. The pub served as a meeting place for local smugglers, who used its secluded location and network of tunnels to transport contraband goods.

The Three Pilchards has gained a reputation for paranormal activity over the years. One of the most frequently reported apparitions is that of a former landlord, believed to be from the 19th century. Witnesses have described seeing a man in period clothing moving about the bar area and disappearing through walls.

Another ghostly figure associated with the pub is a young woman in a long dress, often spotted on the upper floors. Some speculate she may have been connected to the smuggling operations of the past.

Staff and patrons have reported unexplained cold spots, particularly near the fireplace and in certain upstairs rooms. Objects have been known to move on their own, with glasses and bottles reportedly sliding across tables or falling from shelves without apparent cause.

Disembodied voices and footsteps are commonly heard throughout the building, especially during quiet periods. Some visitors have claimed to feel a sense of being watched or an inexplicable heaviness in certain areas of the pub.

The cellar of The Three Pilchards is said to be particularly active, with reports of strange noises and an oppressive atmosphere. This area is believed to have been used extensively during the smuggling era, potentially contributing to its haunted reputation.