The White Swan, Hoddesdon

A former coaching inn with a fine ,original exterior and a substantial pub sign.The interior runs mainly parallel the road to either side of the entrance and is all low beams,wood floor with a section raised in flag stones.Towards the rear there is a modest carpeted section with the feel of a restaurant and a huge inglenook with a wood burner,while outside there are a few benches,some undercover and the allocated spot for smokers,who are not allowed to gather at the front.The atmosphere is of a local boozer,there are high tables in most of the front sections and some fruit machines.However enough original features remain to give some interest.No flatscreens or muzak a real plus,there is a facility for a drop down screen and projector in the restaurant area if needed. The signage talks a lot about a wide range of real ale,and there are two banks of four handpumps.However the selection is mundane ,on my trip GK IPA was doubled up ,with GK Abbott,Doom Bar and Tetley Bitter (£3.10,in decent shape)the other choices.London Pride seems another regular ale,according to the price list.There is a regular quiz and occasional live music. The food offering until 3.30pm(6pm Sat,4pm Sun)is reasonably priced pub grub,lots under £5,little over £6 with a Sunday roast £6.95. One of the better pubs in Hoddesdon,which isn't saying much,which would be greatly improved by a better real ale choice.However it's worth popping in for the authentic feel, and some original features.