The Swan occupies a 15th Century, Grade II listed lodge, formerly known as Bishops
Lodge, in the pretty village of Hoxne. This fine pub is set at the bottom end of the village
green, opposite the village Post Office and Grocery Store, only a short walk from Saint
Edmund's memorial and bridge.
Built in 1480 by the Bishop of Norwich, The Swan has a long history with both the
restaurant and bars aptly reflecting Hoxne's ecclesiastical past with their ornate ceiling beams and ancient wide-planked floors. Throughout the pub and gardens there's an air of peace and rural seclusion. The 17th and 18th century outbuildings adding to the idyllic rural atmosphere of the place.
Both bars and the restaurant have open fires. The 10 foot inglenook fireplace, in the main
bar, is yet another impressive feature of this elegant establishment making it a great place
to spend a cold winter's evening! The back bar is a little more intimate. Painted in a warm and welcoming ochre, with a real fire, it's an ideal place to meet friends and sample a glass
of wine, or ale, from the extensive cellar. The Saint Edmund's day beer festival is held in
the bar during November.
As you would expect with a building of this age there are various reports of ghostly
happenings. During your visit, why not ask David and Jo-Ann to relay a tale or two about
the buildings past and the ghosts they've encountered. Outside, the large gardens run
down to the river Dove with a vast willow tree dominating the lawns. Again there are signs of Hoxne's past with unique local brickwork surrounding the side garden.
There's plenty of seating, with food served outside during the summer months, so you
can take full advantage of the British sunshine! Amid the charming surroundings of The Swan, guests can enjoy an ever-changing menu of expertly prepared home cooked dishes complemented by an impressive range of cask ales from all areas of the country together with an extensive wine list.
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