Swan Inn, Bristol

Blackthorn _ left this review about Swan Inn

A good-sized pub, hotel and restaurant in Thornbury’s High Street, it was very busy on our recent Saturday afternoon visit, with most tables taken in all areas of the pub. The pub has clearly been extended and redeveloped over the years, with what may well at one time have been an open passageway to the rear of the pub now forming a divider between the two front rooms, and an area beyond this that was at one time presumably outside, but now forms something of an interior courtyard.

The main bar area seems to be at the front on the left, and this was fairly traditional in appearance with a few chunky black beams on a whitewashed ceiling, some nondescript grey carpeting on the floor and pale green wood panelling on the lower part of the walls, with rough white plasterwork up above. A large stone chimney breast was off to one side, with plenty of horse brasses adorning the black mantle, although the fire itself was not in use. The room to the right was of a similar size and broadly the same in terms of décor as well, with the addition of some wallpaper and pictures on the wall. This looked to be more geared up for dining with the tables all laid up with menus and cruets. Chequered tiling was in the passageway that divided the two, and this led to an internal courtyard as mentioned, with old flagstones on the floor, a wrought iron staircase to an upper level, as well as an unusual and attractive curved glass window looking back in to the bar that was rather reminiscent of an old shop front.

Beers on tap were London Pride and Otter Ale, whilst ciders were well represented with a trio from Thatcher’s with their Gold, Haze and Rascal, along with Blackthorn and Old Mout Berries & Cherries.

On 8^th February 2024 - rating: 7
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