Part of our Best Pubs in London microsite. Is your local listed?
Why 'The Swan' on landlocked Bayswater Road? Well, two reasons. The lakes and ponds of Kensington Gardens are just over the way, making this an excellent choice for a post-amble pint. But, more satisfyingly, this pub stands on the banks of the River Westbourne — a 'lost river' that once flowed from Hampstead Heath to the Thames in Chelsea. It's still down there as a sewer, but don't let that put you off your pint.
This is a place with history. Bayswater — the watering place of Bayard, where the Westbourne crossed the old highway — was possibly on the site of the pub. It was preceded by the famous Flora tea rooms, which stood hear for hundreds of years, as mentioned on a history board:
Not sure about that Tyburn connection, though. Criminals were much more likely to be coming from the east. Plus... why would the gaolers risk a prisoner escaping, by taking him to the pub.
Given the history (or legends) the pub's interior is suitably decorated with old prints of the area, which never seem tacky like they might in a West End drinking hole.
This is a Fuller's house and serves the usual competent if unlively selection of ales, mixed with a decent menu and wine list. It's a neat little space. A trio of discrete areas effectively make this three pubs in one. Upstairs, a recently redecorated restaurant has views out onto the park. Oh, and the free wifi's bloody good, too.
A pleasant place to swan into, if you find yourself in Kensington Gardens and fancy a pint.
