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Minerva Inn, Plymouth
The Minerva Inn, located on Looe Street in Plymouth's historic Barbican area, is more than just a pub—it's a living piece of English maritime history. Established circa 1540, The Minerva holds the title of Plymouth’s oldest-serving public house. Today, it warmly welcomes guests with live music three nights a week, including a free-for-all jam session every Thursday that invites musicians of all stripes to showcase their talents. Stepping inside, you'll find a cozy atmosphere where regulars and newcomers alike share tales of Plymouth’s rich seafaring past.
Named after Minerva, the goddess of wisdom, warfare, and the arts, the inn pays homage to its storied roots with each timber and glass pane. Legend holds that its woodwork includes timber from the Spanish Armada, while the spiral staircase boasts a mast from one of its galleons. In the 17th century, The Minerva was a notorious haunt of the Press Gang, who would lure unwitting patrons into naval service through cunning tricks, such as slipping the King's shilling into a drink. Tales of secret tunnels and peepholes used to watch for “recruits” still linger in the pub's lore.
The Minerva also carries a reputation for ghostly encounters, with stories of levitating spoons, jukeboxes that spring to life on their own, and a mysterious figure seen standing at the bar. Even pets seem wary of certain corners, adding to the pub's eerie charm. Alongside its supernatural allure, The Minerva Inn hosts occasional beer festivals and serves an excellent selection of ales, including the local favorite Tribute and a rotating lineup from breweries like Dartmoor, Salcombe, and Timothy Taylor.
With over four centuries of history, ghostly presences, and a vibrant musical scene, The Minerva Inn offers more than just a drink—it offers a true taste of Plymouth's enduring spirit.
Named after Minerva, the goddess of wisdom, warfare, and the arts, the inn pays homage to its storied roots with each timber and glass pane. Legend holds that its woodwork includes timber from the Spanish Armada, while the spiral staircase boasts a mast from one of its galleons. In the 17th century, The Minerva was a notorious haunt of the Press Gang, who would lure unwitting patrons into naval service through cunning tricks, such as slipping the King's shilling into a drink. Tales of secret tunnels and peepholes used to watch for “recruits” still linger in the pub's lore.
The Minerva also carries a reputation for ghostly encounters, with stories of levitating spoons, jukeboxes that spring to life on their own, and a mysterious figure seen standing at the bar. Even pets seem wary of certain corners, adding to the pub's eerie charm. Alongside its supernatural allure, The Minerva Inn hosts occasional beer festivals and serves an excellent selection of ales, including the local favorite Tribute and a rotating lineup from breweries like Dartmoor, Salcombe, and Timothy Taylor.
With over four centuries of history, ghostly presences, and a vibrant musical scene, The Minerva Inn offers more than just a drink—it offers a true taste of Plymouth's enduring spirit.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Plymouth. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Minerva Inn on Map
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Sight Name: Minerva Inn
Sight Location: Plymouth, England (See walking tours in Plymouth)
Sight Type: Food/Drink
Sight Location: Plymouth, England (See walking tours in Plymouth)
Sight Type: Food/Drink
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