Swans Nest Inn, Exeter

There was a good range of Palmer’s ales on when we visited last Monday lunchtime, with the Best Bitter at £3.40 a pint (and a rather good pint it was too). It’s apparently Cask marque accredited, so no surprise that my pint was in good shape. The carvery at the back seems to be the main food option on offer, but they also did a range of good quality sandwiches at around £5 - £6. This pub doesn’t look anything special from the outside, but the interior is quite special, which is a welcome reversal from the pubs I usually visit. This one is also much larger than it looks, stretching a long way back and to the right of the servery. It’s carpeted, and furnished with traditional old settles and good quality tables and chairs. There are some unusual and interesting panels over the bar counter with mullioned glass panes, as well as some superb swan-themed leaded light glazing, especially in the main doorway which catches the sunlight. But for me the best features are the fixtures and fittings, including what looks like antique elaborately carved wooden sideboards, screens, a grandfather clock – and even a throne, and some tapestry. My favourite is the carved wooden fireplace surround. It has some outside seating at the front; a patio area with more seating out at the back, and a large car park to the side. I thought that this was a very good pub indeed, and although I’m unlikely to find myself in Exminster any time soon, if I did I would be delighted to pay a return visit to this pub.