The Swan
The Swan
52 High Street
BRIDGNORTH
WV16 4DX
Tel: +44 (0)1746 713901
The Swan is thought to be the oldest local inn, dating from 1392 when the building was owned by Hugo, Earl of Stafford and later the Duke of Buckingham. It is an historic pub, which can boast connections to Oliver Cromwell and is situated close to the popular Severn Valley Railway.
Several historical documents have mentioned The Swan over the centuries. In 1492 it was referred to as a hospice in the High Street called ‘Le Swanne’, and in 1558 an 80-year lease was granted to a tenement called ‘The Swanne’.
Oliver Cromwell was said to have visited The Swan and you can still see the gun holes in the building, which were said to have been used by his bodyguards.
The building was fortunate to have survived the great fire of 1646 that destroyed most of the town and rendered 300 families homeless; but it partly burnt down a few years later some time between 1647 and 1650. It was then rebuilt nearer the High Street with the addition of stables.
It was divided into two tenements about 1700 and appears on a list as being first licensed in 1690, although ale was sold many years before this.
In 1748 it was referred to as ‘‘The Old Swan’ as a tribute to its ancient standing.
Ales and Malts
The Swan serves a variety of traditional beers including the cask ale Bass. They also offer a choice of red and white wines.
Food
The Swan serves a range of tasty meals and snacks, from hot and cold sandwiches to delicious main meals including its hearty mixed grill and lighter Leek & Gruyere Parcel.