The Old Swan Uppers, Maidenhead

Am very pleased to report that since Malden man’s previous review the beer choice in the Swans Uppers has improved and the knowledgeable landlord of some years standing is now able to select from a much more extended monthly list from the PubCo that manages this property. Still the five hand pumps centrally placed on the wooden bar top, but now, as well as the regular Pride, Courage Best and Brakspears Best there are two rotating guest beers which are changed every 3 to 4 days. These were Youngers 1749 and York Brewery Guzzlers and the forthcoming guest beers are advertised on the wall opposite the bar. Superb internal traditional dark wood beamed interior as described below, but now more becoming as the dark paint has recently been removed from the half wood panelling around the walls and the bar front itself, exposing the lighter original wood. The beers are well kept and good , traditional homemade pub food available as well. With most of the other establishments in Cookham having undergone Gastro makeovers in keeping with the well heeled nature of the local residents, The Swan uppers remains a superb traditional pub alternative a short walk out of the village and is thoroughly recommended if you are in the area, especially if you are walking the Thames path.

A simply lovely historic place, old gnarled timber beams and posts support the very low ceiling in the bar area, two inglenook fireplaces including an old wood burning stove, stone flagged floor, old leaded windows, hops wound around the bar, just gorgeous. Seating comprises upholstered wooden benches and settles, plus stools, cribbage board and shove h'penny board available, a few books on a shelf although one is entilted "Memories of Slough".....John Betjamen was not a former patron then? A rear room was set for dining, bench style seating to the front also. Point to note.......if you need the gents its called "Cobs". As for the name, it seems "Swan Upping" relates to the annual census of the Mute Swan population on various upper reaches of The Thames, a ritual since the 1200's. Interesting point to me as I'm walking the river path. The beer.... 5 on handpump, Pride, Bombardier, GK IPA, Doom Bar, and Brakspears Bitter. Hmm, could be better and a lovely pub like this could have gained a top range rating with a better range plus a local guest. I would however comment that my pint was brim full with no need to request or argue a top up. £2.85 for Doombar is ok to me for here.