Pub gets a new lease of life after owners spend cash on revamp

Punch Taverns and publican, Chris Clayton, the new owners of The Swan Inn, Bedhampton, have spent £152,000 on the pub with the aim of restoring it in the eyes of the community.

Set in the heart of Bedhampton, the boozer has undergone a five-week renovation and has been transformed into a family-friendly hub of the community that local residents and visitors can enjoy.

Chris says the redevelopment has seen the whole pub brought up to date inside and out, giving the pub a whole new look.

Inside, new fixtures and fittings have been installed as well as new toilets and new flooring.

Comforting new soft furnishings complete the new look to give it a homely feel.

Part-owner Chris took over the pub this year and has a wealth of experience in the industry.

He said: ‘I am really excited about the new look of the pub. I’ve worked in the pub industry for many years and could see its potential. I’m delighted it’s now a welcoming and relaxed place to enjoy some food and drink.

‘Thanks to the investment from Punch and the support and training they’ve provided, I have a pub to be proud of.’

On the outside, the Swan Inn has been redecorated with new lighting and new signs have been installed to improve its appearance and appeal to passers-by. New garden furniture has updated the beer garden and it is aimed at being a pleasant place for people to have lunch and drinks in over the summer.

Since the takeover, the pub now offers a wide range of real ales, wines and spirits as well as food that uses seasonal and local produce.

In addition, regular live entertainment and a games area with a pool table and dart board give visitors plenty of scope to relax and have fun.

Niki Plumb, new business development manager for Punch, said: ‘The refurbishment has made a big difference to the Swan Inn and it’s great that this local pub is now restored to its rightful place at the heart of the community.

‘I’m sure that Chris has not only the experience and expertise to develop a successful business but also the enthusiasm to establish the pub as a welcoming place to enjoy a drink and bite to eat. We look forward to providing on-going support to help him achieve this.’

Chris aims to bring in new business and revitalise the pub. He said he is pleased with how the refurbishment has gone.