The Swan on The River

This week on Paul Presents the new owner, Dominic chats with Paul about the exciting new vision for the future of the pub in Great Shefford, formally The Great Shefford.

The pub closed its doors 18 months ago.

After a long break, it is happily in the process of being brought back to life this year by the new owner, a local businessman, Dominic Armstrong. 

The emphasis is strongly on being a community pub.

The Swan on the River was  granted further planning permission ( a grade 11 listed building) on 17th October 2025, so work could begin and we gather building work is now going ahead as planned.

Exciting changes are underway at the Riverside Terrace!

The area has been beautifully cleared to make room for a stunning glass balustrade that will showcase the river in all its glory.

Simply the perfect place to sit and watch the local Kingfishers, wildlife and maybe an egret or two, not to forget smile the bacon butties, coffee and cakes, organic meals and much more…!

The former restaurant space is set to transform into the charming Ugly Duckling Restaurant, the decor relaxing, cool and surrounded by  greenery.

Enjoy everything from bacon butties in the morning to delightful coffee and cake throughout the day, and much more!

The new inviting restaurant area will be warm and cosy, encouraging everyone to savour delicious locally produced meals made with healthy organic ingredients, plus a selection of local beers.

They’re also thrilled about plans for a separate dining area upstairs, accommodating about 20 guests, perfect for birthdays and celebrations!

And let’s not forget the exciting new proposed market garden just a short stroll away!

There is plenty more planned-do have listen to the podcast on what Dominic has to say…..

The History

According to the Berkshire Family History Society, The Swan has been serving the community since at least 1752, really finding its charm during the coaching era.

It is a Grade II listed building, originally a cosy home, it was transformed into a vibrant pub in 1847.

In the late nineteenth century, the publican also ran a noteworthy racehorse training yard right from this spot.

 The River Lambourn gently flows along the northern edge of the pub, with serene pastureland to its east, nestled in this beautiful countryside the lovely inn is beautifully positioned along the bank of the quaint River Lambourn, which meanders behind it, embracing the shade of nearby trees and is within the stunning North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (NWD AONB).

Planning applications