When the White Swan was owned by Crown Carveries it was not a great pub. Carvery was the only food sold and it was only good for drinks with friends. However, the new ownership by Stonehouse, who are part of the Mitchells and Butlers group who also own Sizzling Pubs, has revitalised the pub by making the food much better.
On first impressions, the layout is very good but there are no tables for parties of 7 or more. Also, I was very impressed with the cleanliness of the restaurant as all of the tables were regularly polished and the toilets were very clean.
The service and kindness of staff was impeccable. They were always positive and willing to help. The only negative of the service is the self collection of food and the wait for the food, other than instant carveries, could've been better.
The food was great. I had a small carvery which included a generous amount of meat, which you can choose from gammon, turkey or beef, and an endless amount of trimmings. The beef was superbly cooked and tender and I went back for more of the sage and onion stuffing.
I also got to try some of the children's chicken breast burger which was cooked well and was full of flavour and a southern fried chicken wrap which caused an explosion of great flavour in my mouth. On the contrast, the chips and potato based products were not to a good standard due to the fact that they are kept out at self serve stations.
For pudding, I decided to choose a pudding off the children's menu, a bottomless ice cream sundae. For only £2.49 you can get unlimited ice cream, sauce and sprinkles. I managed to eat 6 bowls of ice cream with various flavour combinations before I decided enough is enough.
I definitely will be returning to the White Swan as it was one of the best pubs I have been to. Also, if you have a big appetite, it is a paradise as lots of the meals have unlimited trimmings and salads so you will get a lot for your money.
