06/03/2026
Tucked right in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake sits one of Canada’s oldest (and arguably most spirited, literally) pubs — the Olde Angel Inn.
Dating all the way back to 1789, this place started as a coach house when NOTL was still called Newark — the first capital of Upper Canada. Over the years, it welcomed some pretty big names — we’re talking John Graves Simcoe, Prince Edward (yes, Queen Victoria’s dad), and even explorer Alexander Mackenzie.
Casual little drop-in spot, no big deall.
BUT THEN - history got a little spicy.
During the War of 1812, the Inn was burned down in the chaos of battle — only to be rebuilt in 1815, giving us the same structure (and maybe the same lingering energy) that still stands today.
Legend has it that a Canadian militia officer, Captain Colin Swayze, met a tragic end right inside the Inn. Instead of retreating with the troops, he stayed behind, supposedly waiting for his true love. When American soldiers stormed the building, he hid in a barrel in the cellar and was discovered in the worst possible way.
Ever since then? People say he never left.
Reported activity includes:
• Footsteps in empty rooms.
• Objects moving or being rearranged.
• Phantom conversations and laughter.
• The occasional full-on apparition of a soldier.
And here’s the kicker - It’s said that as long as the British flag flies outside, Captain Swayze remains peaceful. Take it down? Well, let’s just say things might get a little more active.
So next time you’re in Niagara-on-the-Lake, grab a drink, soak in the history, and maybe listen a little closer when the room goes quiet.
Because at the Olde Angel Inn, you might not be the only one there.
Book your overnight stay here: https://oldeangelinn.com/