The Swan on The River
The new signs are up with the lovely new name of The Swan on The River!
Have listen to Dominic, the new owner, on Paul Presents, as he shares his exciting vision for the future of our pub in Great Shefford, formerly known as The Great Shefford.
Miranda and Dominic, who also call Great Shefford home, manage a charming little farm on the Lambourn.
Now that the freehold of the building is secure, everyone is thrilled that it can finally avoid any more uncertainty.
It’s being lovingly refurbished with a community focus at its heart.
The pub’s doors have been closed for the last 18 months.
After a long wait, they’re so happy to see their pub being brought back to life this year by local businessman Dominic Armstrong.
Community really is at the heart of their plans.
The Swan on the River received further planning permission for its transformation (as it’s a grade II listed building) on 17th October 2025, and they hear that work is now finally moving ahead as hoped.
Exciting changes are unfolding at the Riverside Terrace!
The area has been beautifully cleared to make way for a stunning glass balustrade that will allow everyone to soak up the views of the river in all its glory.
It’ll be the perfect spot to sit back and enjoy watching local Kingfishers and wildlife, maybe catch a glimpse of an egret or two, and don’t forget to savour those delicious bacon butties, coffee, cakes, organic meals, and much more…!
The former restaurant space is ready to transform into the delightful Ugly Duckling Restaurant, with a cosy and relaxing decor surrounded by lush greenery.
From bacon butties in the morning to delightful coffee and cake throughout the day, there’s something for everyone!
The new inviting restaurant area will be warm and cosy, encouraging everyone to enjoy delicious meals made from locally sourced, healthy organic ingredients, plus a selection of local beers.
They’re also thrilled about plans for a lovely separate dining area upstairs, perfect for about 20 guests, ideal for birthdays and special celebrations!
And let’s not forget the exciting new proposed market garden just a short stroll away!
There’s so much more on the horizon—be sure to listen to Dominic’s podcast for all the juicy details!
Here’s to laughter, conversation, candlelight and the smell of delicious food to the clink of glasses by the riverside – they can’t wait to welcome you back.
The History
According to the Berkshire Family History Society, The Swan has been a cherished part of the community since at least 1752, really coming into its own during the coaching era.
As a Grade II listed building, it was originally a cosy home before being transformed into a vibrant pub in 1847.
In the late nineteenth century, the publican also ran a notable racehorse training yard right from this very spot.
The River Lambourn peacefully flows along the northern edge of the pub, with serene pastureland to its east.
Nestled in this beautiful countryside, the charming inn is beautifully positioned by the quaint River Lambourn, embraced by the shade of nearby trees and surrounded by the stunning North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (NWD AONB).
Check out the planning applications
Great Shefford
Great Shefford is a lovely and welcoming rural village in West Berkshire, nestled in the beautiful Lambourn Valley and surrounded by open countryside and farmland.
With a rich history reflected in its traditional buildings, parish church, and close-knit community, life here combines the tranquility of village living with handy connections to nearby towns and local services—making it a warm and inviting place to live, visit, and be part of.
The village boasts a strong sense of community, supported by local organisations, events, and volunteers who cherish its character and spirit.
From community gatherings and local initiatives to the stewardship of shared spaces, Great Shefford remains an engaged parish that values its heritage while looking toward a bright future.
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