The Ghosts of the Chownings Tavern

Walk down Duke of Gloucester Street in Colonial Williamsburg, and you’ll find no shortage of charm. The past feels alive here, from costumed interpreters to the smell of colonial-style food wafting through the air. But for those who know where to look—and listen—the past may be too alive. One such place is Chowning's Tavern, one of Williamsburg's most beloved and haunted taverns.

The History of Chowning's Tavern

Established in 1766 by Josiah Chowning, this historic tavern quickly became a favorite gathering place for locals, travelers, and political figures. Taverns in colonial America served as more than watering holes—they were the heart of the community, where news was shared, deals were made, and revolutions were quietly plotted.

Chowning’s Tavern was no different. Known for its traditional alehouse atmosphere, it became a hub of colonial life. Over the centuries, it continued to serve visitors, eventually becoming part of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation’s efforts to preserve and recreate the 18th-century experience. Today, it operates as a functioning tavern, offering food, drink, and even nightly Gambols—interactive evenings of song, storytelling, and games.

Death and Tragedy at Chowning's Tavern

While there are no widely documented records of violent deaths occurring directly in the tavern, the stories that have emerged over the years suggest that not all was peaceful within its walls. Like many buildings of its time, Chowning's would have witnessed the harsh realities of colonial life—illness, violence, and political unrest.

It’s also believed that, as with many taverns of the era, fights occasionally broke out, sometimes ending badly for those involved. Drunken brawls, political disagreements, and personal vendettas could have easily escalated into tragedy, leaving emotional imprints on the building itself.

Why Is Chowning's Tavern Haunted?

While the historical record may be thin on specific deaths, the cumulative energy of centuries of human activity seems to have left a paranormal mark on the tavern. Some believe that the spirits of former patrons, staff, or even Josiah Chowning may linger here, attached to the lively atmosphere they once enjoyed.

Another theory suggests that the tavern’s proximity to other haunted locations, including the nearby Peyton Randolph House and the Williamsburg Gaol, may contribute to its activity. Paranormal energy, after all, doesn’t respect property lines.

The Ghosts and Hauntings of Chowning's Tavern

Paranormal activity has long been associated with Chowning’s Tavern, one of Williamsburg’s most iconic and historic establishments. Guests and employees alike have described the eerie sensation of hearing footsteps echoing through empty hallways and the unmistakable sound of chairs scraping across the floor—despite no one being there. After hours, when the tavern should be quiet, some visitors have reported hearing ghostly laughter, faint singing, and hushed conversations as if long-departed patrons are still enjoying a colonial evening.

Perhaps most unnerving are the sightings of apparitions dressed in 18th-century attire. These ghostly figures are often seen drifting silently through the tavern or appearing momentarily before disappearing into thin air. Witnesses have described them as translucent and oddly calm, their presence sending chills down the spine of even the most skeptical observers. Cold spots are another common occurrence, with sudden drops in temperature and unexplained breezes startling guests in areas with no windows or open doors.

Adding to the mystery are reports of poltergeist-like behavior. Plates have slid off tables untouched, glasses have tipped over without cause, and candles have been known to extinguish themselves in rooms with no wind. Whether these disturbances are the mischievous antics of a lingering spirit or echoes of a bygone era, Chowning’s Tavern remains one of Williamsburg’s most haunted—and fascinating—locations.

Visiting Chowning's Tavern

Chowning's Tavern is open to the public as part of Colonial Williamsburg’s dining experience. Guests can enjoy authentic colonial fare and beverages, often served by staff in period costumes. The tavern hosts Gambols in the evenings, where guests are entertained with colonial music, games, and storytelling.

While you may not be guaranteed a paranormal encounter, the rich atmosphere and haunted history make every visit memorable. Chowning’s Tavern is a featured stop on our Ghost City Tours of Williamsburg for those seeking an even deeper dive into Williamsburg's haunted side.

If you’re planning to visit Williamsburg and are looking for great food, good drinks, and maybe even a ghost or two, stop by Chowning’s Tavern. You can even purchase tickets for our Haunted Pub Crawl in Williamsburg and visit this, and more haunted bars. And if you really want to uncover the spooky stories behind the laughter and music, join us after dark on one of our ghost tours—you never know who you might meet.