About Ancient Ram Inn
Welcome to the Ancient Ram Inn
Nestled in the quaint market town of Wotton-under-Edge in Gloucestershire, the Ancient Ram Inn stands as a fascinating testament to medieval architecture and centuries of mysterious folklore. Built around 1145, this Grade II* listed timber-framed structure was originally constructed to house workmen and masons constructing the nearby St. Mary's Church.
Over the centuries, the building has served various purposes, including a public house, a private residence, and today, a world-famous site for heritage enthusiasts and paranormal investigators. Visitors are drawn from around the globe to admire its remarkably preserved interior featuring ancient oak beams, stone hearths, and quirky architectural quirks that feel like stepping straight back into the Middle Ages.
Whether you are captivated by timber-framed medieval history or eager to explore legendary English haunts, a visit to the Ancient Ram Inn offers an unforgettable encounter with centuries of Cotswold heritage.
History
Centuries of Heritage
The origins of the Ancient Ram Inn date back to 1145 AD when the land was owned by the local church. The site itself sits at the intersection of two ancient ley lines, and early records suggest that the land may have had spiritual significance long before the current structure was erected.
During the medieval era, the inn served as a home for workers building St. Mary's Church. Later, in the 16th and 17th centuries, it operated as a bustling public house and inn catering to travellers and local merchants in the wool trade that once dominated the Cotswolds.
In the 20th century, the late John Humphries acquired the property and dedicated decades of his life to preserving its historical fabric. Today, preserved by his family, the inn retains its authentic medieval atmosphere without modern alterations, making it a rare survivorship of early English vernacular architecture.