The Phone Book

Don't be put off by the outside. The people are lovely and the food/beer is fantastic.

The Old Swan was formerly run by a Mrs Pardoe and has the nickname Ma Pardoe's.

It is a Victorian style pub with many of its fixtures and fittings from that era. There is a carpark at the rear in Northfield Road with a small area with tables for those who wish to drink outside or smoke.

Inside, the pub contains 5 rooms downstairs, including lounge/dining areas, a bar and a snug.

The pub brews its own Real Ales, such as Original, Entire, Black Swan and Bumblehole - plus the occasional special seasonal brews. The Swan also sells lagers, fruit wines, spirits and soft drinks and can conjure up a mean cheese cob to eat with your pint of Real Ale.

The current landlord, Tim Newey, dresses in Victorian style and plays the organ at local churches. There is an organ in the lounge, but I have yet to see him play.

The pub also boasts a brilliant menu and you will usually be advised to book in advance for a meal. There is an excellent kitchen and dining areas are in the downstairs lounges and upstairs dining room.

A few local characters can be seen in there including Aynuk of Aynuk and Ayli fame (sadly Ayli died last year [2007]).

A real treat for Real Ale Buffs and Gastronomes - or anyone who just wants to get away from 20th/21st century boozers.