The Swan Inn, Ipswich

Only open from 2pm from Thursday until Sunday, the Swan appears to be a community-focused village local that succeeds where the Cock in Brent Eleigh (just down the road) fails. The Cock may have lots of character, but we found the landlord in the Swan really friendly and welcoming, somebody for whom customer service comes naturally. The interior is one long room with a TV in one corner. A sign indicated that there was a separate pool room at the other end. There are a couple of small tables outside to the front of the pub and the adjacent car park appears to be shared with the village shop. Dogs are welcome, with the pub dog ruling the roost. Locals were standing to allow the dog to sit! Music was playing during our visit, creating a nice atmosphere. Events promoted include bingo nights, a quiz and a pizza van. Greene King Abbot is the regular cask ale. The guest for our visit was Mauldon's Mole Trap, with a third handpull unclipped. Greene King Level Head & Prior Life were on keg, with the cider being Inch's. We were made to feel welcome here, despite obviously not being local.

Official site of The Swan Inn - www.swaninnmonkseleigh.co.uk

Official site of The Swan Inn - www.swaninnmonkseleigh.co.uk