The Swan Inn – Swinbrook
The Accommodation
Winding down a country lane, inhabited by pheasants, woodpeckers and deer and crossing the old stone bridge over the clear waters of the River Windrush, with its banks covered in great swathes of daffodils in spring and changing colour with the seasons, it’s easy to wind down, relax and imagine yourself transported back in time, visiting this lovely village pub and inn with rooms, once Swinbrook’s mill, and steeped in aristocratic history.
Owned by the late Dowager Duchess of Devonshire whose family used to live in Swinbrook, and run by Archie & Nicola who also run The King’s Head in Bledington. The inn is delightfully comfortable, stylish, and warm with open log fires, fresh flowers, old polished tables, and engaging family photographs of the Mitford’s dotted around the flag-stoned rooms.
Coming here to drink and enjoy the award-winning restaurant and menu that’s fresh, seasonal and with produce that’s very much local with friendly staff is always a joy. Just behind the pub The Swan’s old forge has a number of charming, hide-away rooms and a riverside cottage for guests all made up with crisp white linen, soft muted colours, thick towels and deeply comfortable beds for a perfect stay. Drift off to sleep with sounds of the wooded countryside around. Bring a torch as only stars and an outside lantern light the way to your room.
Taking time to have lunch or an evening meal here is a must – menus are seasonal and change often and The Swan makes sure all their produce used is sourced locally wherever possible. Drop in anytime for a drink by the cosy fires or by the bar but do remember to book if you would like to stay for a meal!
Children and dogs welcomed.
The Village and Location
The village of Swinbrook is a gentle, quiet Cotswold village just a few miles from Burford with winding lanes, lovely stone cottages, and small village green. It feels almost as time has stood still. However, do set aside time to discover the small parish church of St Mary. Inside are two, rather quirky and characterful three decked monuments to the wealthy Fettiplace family, who in the 17th century were the biggest landowning families in Oxfordshire and Berkshire and owned a splendid manor house in the village which is no more. Also inside the church see the 15th century choir stalls and brasses of John Croston and his three wives.
In the green and peaceful graveyard lie three of Lord Redesdale’s six daughters, Mitford sisters, Unity, Nancy and Jessica. They lived at the nearby village of Ashall at the lovely Asthall Manor for a while and then moved to Swinbrook House in the village.
Things to Do Near Swinbrook
- Walk along the banks of the River Windrush
- Explore National Trust’s splendid Lodge Park
- Put on walking boots and discover the Sherborne Estate
- Visit Cotswolds Wildlife Park and feed the penguins
- Take a trip out to lovely Kelmscott Manor, home to William Morris
- Have afternoon tea and choose a rug or fine wool jacket from the Cotswold Woollen Weavers in Filkins
Village Perfect For:
