Colonial Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl

Imagine wandering through a town like Williamsburg, Virginia—famous for its colonial charm and historic streets—at night, with the air thick with stories of spirits and specters. That’s essentially what the Colonial Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl promises: a blend of ghostly tales, historic sights, and local drinks—all wrapped into a two-hour journey.

While I haven’t personally taken this tour, a close look at the reviews, itinerary, and features suggests it offers a pretty fun experience for those who love a little spooky storytelling with their evening libations.

We’re particularly fond of the well-researched stories and knowledgeable guides that bring Williamsburg’s haunted past to life in a friendly, engaging way. Plus, the chance to visit some local watering holes makes this different from typical ghost tours that tend to be all about the history and none of the fun. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that drinks are not included, which can add up if you’re not careful.

That means this tour is best suited for those looking for an entertaining mix of history, ghost stories, and a lively pub atmosphere—perfect for curious travelers, history buffs, or those just out for a spooky good time.

This experience made our article of The Top 4 Drinking Tours In Williamsburg.

Key Points

• Authentic stories backed by thorough research provide a credible spooky experience.
• Visit multiple local pubs for drinks and stories, making it more than just a walking tour.
• Guide quality seems to be a major highlight, with several reviews praising their knowledge and personality.
• Price point at $27 per person offers a decent value, but drinks are extra, so budget accordingly.
• Tour duration of about 2 hours makes it an easy, manageable evening activity.
• Group size is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Overview of the Experience

This tour sets out around 5:45 pm from the historic heart of Williamsburg, starting at 424 W Duke of Gloucester St. Over the next couple of hours, you’ll meander through the streets with a guide who shares both stories of Williamsburg’s dark past and ghostly legends. The tour culminates at the Precarious Beer Project at 110 S Henry St, where the last tale is told, and you can enjoy a drink or local food afterward.

What makes this experience especially appealing is its combination of history and storytelling. The guide’s role is to bring to life the haunted tales associated with Williamsburg’s many historical sites and local establishments.

The Stops: A Mix of Ghost Stories and Local Pubs

The tour features four main stops, each promising a mix of spooky tales and a chance to unwind with a drink. Here’s what you can expect at each location:

The Hound’s Tale

Starting at this local hotspot, you’ll step inside and hear about haunted legends tied to this spot. Several reviews mention that the stories are well-researched, adding credibility to the tales. The stop lasts about 20 minutes, giving you a taste of Williamsburg’s spooky side without feeling rushed.

DoG Street Pub

Next, you’ll visit this historic theatre-turned-pub, where tales of horrifying hauntings are shared. Again, about 20 minutes here, with stories that have been appreciated for their authenticity and engaging delivery.

Berret’s Seafood Restaurant and Taphouse Grill

Here, the stories get a tad more gruesome—perfect for those who enjoy a little macabre detail. The location itself is a favorite among visitors, and some reviews note the stories about this haunted spot are “gruesome and terrifying,” adding a darker flavor to your evening. The tour mentions passing by a historic house of worship as well, sharing its own haunted tales.

Precarious Beer Project

The final stop is a local favorite, where the tour ends with a final story, some drinks, and a lively atmosphere. The bar’s accessibility near the start point makes it a convenient finish, and many travelers appreciate the casual, relaxed setting to wrap up their spooky evening.

The Value of the Tour: What You Get for $27

At $27, this tour offers an affordable way to experience Williamsburg’s haunted side. Included in the price are the professional tour guide, accurate, well-researched stories, and authentic local ghost tales. The stops are all free to enter, and the stories are the main focus—no hidden fees for the storytelling.

However, drinks are not included—a critical point to note, as reviews reveal that many travelers end up spending significantly more on beverages, with some mentioning a total cost approaching $100 when adding drinks, tips, and food. While the price for the tour itself is reasonable, you should budget extra if you plan to sample the pub’s drinks.

Group Size and Atmosphere

The tour limits itself to 15 travelers, fostering a more intimate, less chaotic atmosphere. Multiple reviews mention the guides’ knowledge, humor, and personable style—major pluses for engaging storytelling. Groups are small enough to ask questions and enjoy the stories at a comfortable pace, making this ideal for those who enjoy a conversational, friendly vibe.

The Guide’s Role: A Key Highlight

Several reviews sing the praises of guides like Tom, William, and Rob, describing them as knowledgeable, funny, and engaging. They don’t just recite stories—they breathe life into Williamsburg’s haunted past. Some reviewers have noted that the guides answer questions enthusiastically, and their enthusiasm makes the stories more compelling.

The Itinerary: Pros and Cons

The itinerary is straightforward, covering four stops with about 20 minutes at each. This pacing allows for storytelling and drinks without feeling rushed. One review noted that some locations, like Berret’s Seafood, were not visited as much as hoped, which may disappoint those expecting more pub hopping.

On the downside, a few reviewers have expressed frustration with the limited number of pub stops—only one actual pub visit is included, despite the tour’s advertised pub crawl vibe. Some also pointed out that ghost stories sometimes felt repeated or hard to hear, especially when a microphone wasn’t used.

Pacing and Physical Demands

The tour involves moderate walking through Williamsburg’s streets, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Most reviews say the tour lasts roughly 2 hours, which is manageable for most travelers, but those with mobility concerns should keep in mind.

Timing and Booking

Starting at 5:45 pm, this tour is perfect for early evening, and booking about 2 weeks in advance is advised to secure a spot, especially during busy seasons. The tour is available with a mobile ticket and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before, making it flexible if your plans change.

Authenticity and the Haunted Tale

What really makes this tour stand out is the careful research behind the stories. Unlike some ghost tours that rely solely on hearsay or legend, reviewers feel that these tales are rooted in history, with some even citing personal experiences and local lore.

One reviewer mentions that guide William shared stories from personal experience, adding an extra layer of authenticity and fun. The crypt beneath the Wren Building was highlighted as a favorite story, showing that the tour doesn’t just skim over the surface but offers genuine, sometimes eerie insights into Williamsburg’s haunted spots.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This haunted pub crawl appeals to travelers who enjoy a good story, local history, and a fun, social atmosphere. It’s well-suited for those who want an affordable, guided introduction to Williamsburg’s spookier side without dedicating an entire day. The combination of knowledgeable guides, authentic stories, and local pub visits makes it a memorable evening activity.

If your idea of fun involves listening to ghostly legends while sampling drinks in historic settings, this tour is likely to satisfy. Keep in mind that drinks are extra, and some locations may be visited less than expected, but overall, it’s a solid option for a lighthearted, atmospheric night out in Williamsburg.

For those who prefer a longer, more in-depth ghost tour, or who want all-inclusive drinks, you might want to explore other options. But if you’re after a balanced mix of spooky storytelling and local tavern ambiance, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable choice.

FAQ

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are not included. You should budget extra for beverages at each pub stop, which many travelers find adds significantly to the overall cost.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable evening activity that provides enough time for both stories and drinks.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 424 W Duke of Gloucester St and ends at the Precarious Beer Project at 110 S Henry St, both in Williamsburg.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
The tour is geared toward adults interested in spooky stories and pub visits, so it’s best suited for travelers 21 and over.

How many stops are included?
There are four main stops, with about 20 minutes allocated at each, primarily for storytelling and a quick drink.

Are the stories based on real history?
Yes, the stories are thoroughly researched, with many reviews praising their authenticity.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

What if I only want to do the ghost stories and skip the pubs?
This tour is designed as a pub crawl combined with ghost stories, so the focus is on both. If you’re not interested in pub visits, there may be other options to explore.

Is there a guide microphone?
Some reviews mention that a microphone would be helpful, especially for larger groups, but it’s not clear if one is provided.

What’s the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 15 travelers, promoting a more personal experience.

Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of ghost stories, or just looking for a fun way to spend an evening in Williamsburg, the Colonial Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl offers a spirited mix of tales, drinks, and local charm. Just remember to bring your curiosity—and your wallet for those extra drinks!