FIRST IMPRESSIONS: 4/5

The Swan Inn is a 17th-century Grade-II pub and inn is brimming with history and a cozy, welcoming vibe. Located on the edge of the Mendip Hills National Trust area of outstanding natural beauty, a haven for those who are seeking a base for walking and bicycling adventures.

Outside, the terrace is lined with wooden tables covered in sheepskins and blankets. Eyeing a sunny spot, a tabletop for two, I take in the view and feel the warm sunshine. Settling in, I begin to plot my adventure. Beyond, in the garden people gathered at picnic tables, dogs at their feet. The sound of people together again is a balm to my weary soul. Life returning. The sunsets and I retreat indoors.

COMFORT & ROOMS: 4/5

My room, Hillview, sat above the pub at the top of the stairs. There is a view of the surrounding countryside.

The Swan’s newly refurbished rooms are cozy, comfortable, and stylish. Each room is individually decorated with modern-rustic furnishings, and equipped with ensuite bathrooms, organic Bramley toiletries, minibars stocked with local goodies, digital safes, Roberts DAB radios, Smart TVs, and free Wi-Fi.

I appreciate the little touches like a bottle of prosecco and beer each with a tag that reads "On us Welcome back."

Note: If you stay in one of the Signature Plus rooms that are located on the ground floor detached from the main inn, the downside is the rooms face the car park. You can’t open the curtains if you want privacy. If it’s summertime, there are no windows to open to allow for a cool breeze.

If staying here again, make sure you stay in one of the five rooms located in the main building.

FOOD & DRINKS: 3.5/5

The pub's interior is intimate. Nooks with candlelight tables and wooden beams create an intimate atmosphere.

The restaurant focuses on seasonal produce, pub classics, and local beer on the tap. Dinner is a flatiron chicken with local veg and a glass of rosé. Overall, the food doesn’t blow me away but it isn’t bad either. It’s simply classic dishes, locally sourced fresh ingredients, and a nice selection of wines.

The third time I stayed here, the service was exceptionally slow but I believe this was only due to the fact they were short-staffed. Otherwise, the food was lovely as it has been in the past.

Located just 7 miles from Bristol airport and 15 miles from Bristol Temple Meads train station, The Swan is the perfect base for exploring Bristol, Somerset, and not to mention all of the walking, cycling, and dog-walking opportunities in and around the Mendips. Other local attractions include Cheddar Gorge, Wookey Hole Caves, Glastonbury Tor, and Ashton Gate Stadium

Double rooms from £89, year-round. Breakfast included. Free Wi-Fi.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY?

Yes. And dog-friendly too!

THE SWAN INN

ROWBERROW, WINSCOMBE

SOMERSET, BS25 1QL

EMAIL: SWAN@BUTCOMBEPUBS.COM

PHONE: 0193 485 2371