Ambitiously refurbished and re-launched as a self-proclaimed gastropub, The Swan is a pretty 19th-century inn perched alongside the tiny river Lambourn. Sit on the terrace by the water’s edge with
a pint of locally brewed Butt’s ale and a plate of mixed antipasti or a Barkham Blue ploughman’s with homemade chutney and pickled onions. Inside, puffy banquettes line a red-bricked dining room
that blends rustic tones with touches of luxury – a theme continued on the plate. A salad of salmon, beetroot and potato is enlivened with lemongrass and ginger dressing, pheasant is cooked two
ways, and locally sourced steaks are served with impressively stacked chucky chips and a grilled tomato. Alternatively, drop by for a plate of sarnies with coleslaw and crisps. Service is down to
earth and friendly, and the wine list aims for value rather than ostentation.