Isabella Mueller Baroness of Stainton le Vale
The Red Lion Pub, a charming and iconic tavern in the heart of Southampton, is more than just a place to enjoy a cold beer or a glass of wine. It is a place where history comes alive, and in an eerie way. One of the main reasons for the pub’s notoriety is the infamous Southampton Plot, a conspiracy against King Henry V in 1415 that took place right here. Three men, Richard, Earl of Cambridge, Lord Scrope of Masham, and Sir Thomas Grey of Heaton, hatched a dangerous plan to kill King Henry V and replace him with Edmund Mortimer, the fifth Earl of March. However, the Earl betrayed the conspiracy, leading to the men’s capture. After their trial, they were found guilty of high treason and led from the pub to Bargate, where they faced their fate and were executed. To this day, numerous people report seeing a ghostly procession leaving the pub and following the same route that these famous conspirators once had to take. It almost seems as if history has never completely faded away! But the Red Lion Pub has more than just a historical background. The building itself is a fascinating puzzle of different eras. In the basement rooms, traces can be traced back to 1148, while most of the main building dates back to the Tudor period. Sometimes it feels as if you are traveling through time when you enter the pub. Particularly striking are the newer elements dating back to the 1950s, and this mixture of different architectural styles and eras creates a unique atmosphere. So the Red Lion is not just a pub, but also a meeting place for ghost stories and unexplained phenomena, a true ghost hotspot, so to speak. In addition to the haunting trio of the Southampton Plot conspirators, there are reports of a mysterious lady in her sixties floating peacefully through the bar. Some guests have also heard the sound of heavy boots echoing through the old cellars. One wonders whether these ghosts are perhaps connected to the events of the past or whether they are simply part of the soul of the place. If you’re ever in Southampton, a visit to the Red Lion Pub should definitely be on your list. Even if you’re not a big fan of spooky stories, you’ll love the historic charm and lively atmosphere of this pub. The walls tell stories that date back to the Middle Ages, and the friendly staff will make you feel right at home. Take a seat at the bar, order a traditional British dish, and enjoy a pint. While you enjoy your meal, you can admire the decor, which cleverly combines old and new elements. From the wooden beams that evoke times gone by to the modern artwork on the walls, there is much to discover. A popular spot in the Red Lion Pub is the area around the fireplace, where many guests like to linger to relax and enjoy the atmosphere. And who knows, maybe you’ll be lucky and see the ghostly lady or hear the eerie footsteps in the cellars. That would certainly be a story you could tell your friends! The Red Lion Pub is a magnet for lovers of ghost stories and paranormal events. The legends surrounding the conspirators are just one of the many mysteries that surround this place. Many visitors report a strange feeling when they enter the pub, as if they have stepped into another time and dimension. Some believe that the spirits of the condemned still wander around, trapped within the walls of the pub, while others sense the presence of guardian spirits or friendly souls. In fact, there are organizations and groups that regularly conduct investigations at the Red Lion Pub and document the paranormal. If you are interested in ghost hunting, you might even want to join one of the night tours led by experienced ghost hunters. These tours offer the opportunity to learn more about the eerie stories and look for paranormal activity yourself. In addition to its role as a historical landmark and haunted bastion, the Red Lion Pub is also an important part of the local community. People from all walks of life meet here to celebrate special occasions and make new friends. Events are often held featuring local musicians or quiz nights. This keeps the pub lively while maintaining a connection to history. The Red Lion Pub is also a great place to meet locals and learn more about the city of Southampton. The bar staff and regulars are happy to share their stories and anecdotes about the area—sometimes even with a touch of the supernatural. It’s easy to get caught up in the conversations and learn more about the little secrets this city has to offer. The Red Lion Pub is undoubtedly a fascinating place that attracts both history buffs and fans of the supernatural. Whether you’re looking for a cozy place to spend a few hours or are simply curious about the ghost stories that whisper within the walls of this old pub, you’re sure to find your place here. Next time you’re in Southampton, don’t forget to plan a visit to the Red Lion Pub. Let yourself be seduced by history and ghosts as you enjoy a refreshing drink and immerse yourself in the past. Who knows, maybe you too will become part of another eerie story.
