The Swan is a cracking little pub on the edge of Lewes town. It’s vibrant and busy, traditional and inclusive, quirky and individual. When we took over the pub in 2009 we didn’t have a particular agenda or plan for the pub. It’s current incarnation has developed organically over time, catering for the needs of the local community.
In it’s bones the Swan is a traditional, old-fashioned two barred public house. It’s low ceilings, wonky walls and open fire are every bit the country pub of yesteryear. The earliest known recorded reference to the Swan appears in the Lewes Journal 1760, which tells the story of a stranger from foreign shores who arrived at the Swan looking for shelter and refreshment. He was set upon by ruffians, beaten and robbed.
I assure you things have changed. Visitors can expect a warm and friendly welcome. In the winter the fires are roaring, in the summer the vast, award winning garden is an absolute delight. We serve food all day, have a vinyl only music policy, purvey delicious well made drinks and are proud of the buzzy, jovial atmosphere which encourages conversation, merriment and mirth.
We truly believe we preside over a true community gem which caters for all. On any given day you can see office workers, walkers, young families, students home from uni, groups of friends, birthday celebrations, retirement parties, head wettings, bonfire society meetings, tourists and staunch regulars all happily rubbing shoulders and having fun.
For many people (ourselves included) the pub represents a way to loosen up and enjoy a little of the silliness, exuberance and emotional openness denied to us in day to day life. We love the warmth, laughter and random non-sensical conversation that hours spent in a pub can bring. Pubs have a unique capacity to bring people together from all walks of life, a good pub can be the beating heart of a community and we firmly believe that drinking in pubs is good for your health. So do the right thing, support your local. And if you happen to be in the vicinity of Bell Lane/ Southover high street come and raise a glass at the Swan.
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