A ‘tired’ Ellesmere Port pub is gracing customers with a new look.
The White Swan on Old Chester Road, Great Sutton , just off the busy A41, has re-opened after a six week joint investment by Robinsons Brewery, which owns 300 pubs, inns and hotels across the north west and is one of the oldest and most respected names in British brewing history.
The refurbishment is said to have been ‘well received’ by locals with soaring sales to prove it.
Originally built in 1850, the White Swan was described as in need of a makeover to bring the pub into the 21st century.
The design team at the family run brewery, which itself dates back to Victorian times, had a vision to transform and create an accessible, female and family friendly pub that had the very best traditional features at its heart.
Licensee David Morris said: “I have been running the White Swan for 11 years now and I am proud to have developed a fantastic customer base within the community.
“My partner Becky and I both agreed that the pub appeared tired and needed a new lease of life to help re-energise the business.”
Internally, the attractive 19th century pub has received a complete overhaul. Trading areas have been opened up whilst still retaining nestled intimate corners which have proved popular.
Externally an extension has been built to accommodate the new disabled toilets making the pub more accessible.
The décor features a rich dark colour scheme, including a full insight into the famous Robinsons’ brewing process showcasing the various hops and grains.
David believes one of the biggest changes to note is the extension of the beer, wine and spirit range.
The bar displays four copper pumps serving Robinsons award-winning real ales and five lagers.
The new exclusive wine menu has been positively received especially with the female clientele.
“In our opening week we exceeded our weekly income by accomplishing our target within the first four days. We even had to order additional bottles of wine,” continued David.
“Our food menu, which is dedicated to serving true pub grub with classics such as steak and ale pie and breaded scampi, has also contributed towards our increase in sales.”
He added: “The reaction from our customers has been fantastic. Whilst the pub now has a contemporary feel, in some ways it’s still very much a traditional pub.
“We’ve retained the White Swan’s darts and dominoes teams and although it’s still early days all signs are looking positive with our sales increasing in all areas and we are seeing some new faces visiting the pub alongside our loyal regulars which is great!”
John Hughes, business development manager for Robinsons Brewery, commented: “David Morris and his team at the White Swan have worked tirelessly throughout the re-development of the pub and I’m delighted to see the success of their hard work paying off.
“David knew exactly what he wanted for his customers. The pub looks terrific and I have every faith that David will continue to run the White Swan to the highest of standards.”
