The White Swan
Henley in Arden, Warwickshire, England.
While the inn that exists today was constructed during the mid 16th century, it is thought that a hostelry has stood on the site since at least 1352, with documentary evidence confirming that it was in use six years later.
It is said that the 18th century poet William Shenstone wrote about the White Swan, eulogizing: “Whoever has travelled life’s dull round, Wherever his stages may have been, May sigh to think he still has found, The warmest welcome at an inn.”
However, its most notable famous former patron is undoubtedly Samuel Johnson who is reputed to have worked on his famous English dictionary (originally published in 1755) while staying at the inn in 1776.
A more unsavoury aspect to the history of this remarkable building is that it was used as a courthouse during the latter half of the 1800s, with public hangings taking place in the courtyard (the hotel’s restaurant is known as The Gallows). As such, it is no surprise that many people claim that the place is haunted.
See the Historic Hotels in Warwickshire index
It is said that the 18th century poet William Shenstone wrote about the White Swan, eulogizing: “Whoever has travelled life’s dull round, Wherever his stages may have been, May sigh to think he still has found, The warmest welcome at an inn.”
However, its most notable famous former patron is undoubtedly Samuel Johnson who is reputed to have worked on his famous English dictionary (originally published in 1755) while staying at the inn in 1776.
A more unsavoury aspect to the history of this remarkable building is that it was used as a courthouse during the latter half of the 1800s, with public hangings taking place in the courtyard (the hotel’s restaurant is known as The Gallows). As such, it is no surprise that many people claim that the place is haunted.
See the Historic Hotels in Warwickshire index
Online Booking and Reviews for The White Swan, Henley in Arden
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