I LOVE it when you go into a pub not knowing anyone and yet you immediately get involved in light-hearted banter with the locals and the staff.

It may be that you never see them again but, for a short time, you've struck up a rapport with a few strangers it's what pubs are all about.

On first impressions, the Swan didn't look up to much, but once I'd stepped through the doors, I was sold.

The Irish gentleman behind the bar, Marcus (presumably the landlord) had an air of authority about him so much so he gets called a gentleman in a pub review.

He's what a landlord of a pub should be like, welcoming to strangers, ready for some nonsense and all the time you know that it's HIS pub.

They don't make them like that any more.

A pint of Guinness and Heineken cost £4.90 which is about average, and wasn't bad either, even though I hate Heineken.

But you get a lot more for your money when you go to the Swan.

You get a pub traditional in its look and its feel. You get friendly locals who enjoy making conversation which means, in all, you get a warm welcome.

It's very hard to find fault with the Swan, but Marcus's views on sport he follows Man Utd and doesn't like cricket do leave a lot to be desired.

That's not really a good reason not to go there, though, is it?

HJ

January 30, 2003 13:00