Based on 88 opinions finded in 2 websites
Opinions
A very warm welcome, a good selection of ales, lager, cider, proper home cooked food and large portions, we can highly recommend The Swan.
roy b . 2024-03-08
MORE AT TripAdvisor
We went to the swan joining our family after they had a walk to celebrate a birthday. We had a great time, the staff were excellent, our waitress was lovely. The food came and was fresh, well presented, very tasty and extremely large portions, I can recommend all what we had as everyone else loved their dishes too, my partner said his burger was the best pub burger he’d had, I loved my chicken burger and the risotto and parpadelle was stunning. Only a couple of us managed the desserts but can recommend both the sticky toffee and crumble, large portions and beautifully tasting. We will be back!
Missbaxter1984 . 2023-09-29
MORE AT TripAdvisor
This pub is better than it has been for sometime. The new owners have got it right. Good food at value prices and a warm welcome.
Journey802439 . 2023-01-09
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Went to the Swan because we were staying in a local AirBnB for a couple of nights and it was the nearest pub we found. It looks lovely on the outside (a nice red phone box outside very Olde England) and inside was warm and welcoming too. We stayed for food but we’re really disappointed by the landlady, she was OK at first but then seemed to spend most of her time drinking at the bar and being rude to her poor staff, who did their best to make us welcome. The waitress and person behind the bar were brilliant though so it saved the night. Maybe he nicer to your employees if you want people to return?
Valerie Jones . 2022-03-01
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Took my son and grandson for lunch on Sunday. Myself and hubby had Sunday roast and son and grandson had the steak pie. Food was very nice and we all enjoyed it. The pub is very old and traditional so just what we look ke
Kath C . 2019-12-08
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Visited the swan again to still no card machine working same as a Thursday night, it was the night of Dobcross lights turn on really poor service behind the bar,when finally got served asked for a large wine only to be told there was no wine glasses, the same was said on a Thursday night really poor when surly December is there busiest month by far,I will vote with my feet and not use the swan ever again
Bankterrace . 2019-11-30
MORE AT TripAdvisor
What could of gone wrong, went wrong on our visit today! We attended for my grandads 80th birthday. We had a party of 11 and was asked to preorder our meals, which we did on the Saturday evening prior to our visit Sunday evening. When we arrived, we were told that they didn’t have at least 6 out 11 meals. The menu is very limited so it was hard to choose another meal. We then had to reorder and we waited around an hour and 15 minutes to be served. The food was decent however 2 of our party ordered cheese and onion pie which should of come with chips, beans and salad only for it to arrive with no beans with no explanation as to why until asked. We were offered a free round of drinks although we had already ordered 5 mins prior to this. We were given 2 free starters (between 11) which was nice but didn’t cut it. The waitress was very helpful and apologetic and the rest of the staff but it isn’t really the service you would expect especially for such a big occasion.
emilymorrow_ . 2019-11-10
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Love this place. My wife and I go regularly with my 2 young daughters and always receive a warm welcome. The staff are friendly and Alex is a great host. The food is fantastic (especially the fish and chips & cheese and onion pie), and a nice Morretti to wash it all down. All in all a great pub.
Hfthj . 2019-07-06
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Our group of 50 returning from York races had pre-booked food. The quality of food and service was excellent! Alex the landlord was very efficient and helpful and everyone in the group was full of praise for the way the trip ended. Well done The Swan!
Q2315EVdavidm . 2019-05-18
MORE AT TripAdvisor
The welcome we got here was great and the beer was good too. The food was reasonably priced. There was nothing wrong with the food. Nice enough for lunch
Thorny61 . 2019-05-17
MORE AT TripAdvisor
What a gorgeous little pub in a beautiful village. The food is amazing and the gin bar has every type of gin you could possibly want. Good sized function room upstairs where you’re left at peace to do your own thing while the staff are just a few steps away if you need them. Loved my visit here from start to finish
Joanne R . 2019-05-12
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Really don’t have the foggiest idea where the previous good reviews came from...... we didn’t enjoy our experience at all. Saturday night- the place was half empty and it’s now painfully obvious why. No atmosphere whatsoever, but the biggest let down was the food - way way way below average. Serving staff look totally dejected. We will not be returning. Same prices as The Waggon in Uppermill or The Bank in Delph - but light years away from matching them in terms of customer experience.
Cathie-Lancashire . 2019-04-13
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Booked a table for 6 on Saturday evening after the Christmas lights switch on, glad we did book as the place was buzzing and tables looked in short supply. Lovely log fire was just what we needed after a chilly, wet stand outside and the tables looked lovely with bottles filled with fairy lights all very welcoming. Staff were really friendly and good service to say the place was heaving. My Daughter enjoyed a chicken curry my Husband a cheese burger my 5 year old Grandson had chicken goujons, chips and beans and the rest of us had the homemade cheese and onion pie which I have to say was delicious and I would definitely have again. My Grandson had sticky toffee pudding with ice cream the rest of the family was too full and had coffee. For 6 people a round of drinks, mains coffee & a dessert the bill was £86 which we all thought was very reasonable. We will re visit as we all had a great night in this lovely friendly old fashioned village pub
Chris L . 2018-12-10
MORE AT TripAdvisor
This is a great place, staff lovely, food excellent, went Saturday night with the hubby and returned Sunday lunch with friends, well worth the visit, definitely go back, very busy so better to book x
donnatX2338CD . 2018-12-10
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Superb Food, excellent service, friendly and efficient staff, couldn't ask for more, definitely recommend
Gill L . 2018-10-09
MORE AT TripAdvisor
We have been in The Swan a few times since it’s been taken over. We have visited at lunchtime and in the evening for food and just for drinks. The food and service is great (best cheese and onion pie I’ve had!) We always receive a warm welcome. Kids are welcome too and their food is always fresh and tasty. Thanks Alex and team. We will be back (lots more times!)
GrahamsThe . 2018-10-06
MORE AT TripAdvisor
This pub has changed hands a few times over the last few years but I have to say that I think that the new manager Alex is doing a great job.
sunshinekitty3 . 2018-09-19
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Ordered a white wine plus a simple meal from the owner.
dogstar2016 . 2018-09-06
MORE AT TripAdvisor
We were visiting family in Saddleworth and stopped for something to eat and drink at The Swan . Staff were very friendly and food delicious and welcoming after a day walking on the moors . Alex the landlord went above and beyond what was expected . At the end of the evening our taxi failed to arrive , we were all exhausted and in need of dry clothes , Alex stepped in and drove us home ! Fantastic landlord, lovely food and drink in a beautiful location , try it
genny3212018 . 2018-08-27
MORE AT TripAdvisor
We had an early evening meal at The Swan which is under new management. It proved to be a perfect choice for a family celebration. The food was delicious and served promptly. All the staff are efficient and friendly creating a warm and relaxing atmosphere. Dog friendly too.I am sure we will be back very soon. Thank you Alex and your team. We had a lovely evening.
Standedge . 2018-08-02
MORE AT TripAdvisor
We had a lovely and relaxing evening celebrating a family birthday at the swan. Lovely, fresh and varied menu with attentive staff. New management team doing a great job and we’ll be coming back soon!
siansmith1 . 2018-07-28
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Called in today for lunch to try out following the recent change in management.
30SusanD . 2018-07-26
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Great food, staff and in such a beautiful village x you must visit if you want a real country pub with a great atmosphere and home cooked yummy food xxx
Debbieh5971 . 2018-07-21
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Welcoming atmosphere of a local pub, but food worthy of a high end restaurant. Would highly recommend the cheese and onion pie, really tasty and great quality. Can’t wait until the next time :) Well done guys
Lorraine B . 2018-07-18
MORE AT TripAdvisor
I eat regularly at the Swan and have never had a poor meal. The cheese & onion pie is to die for, the best I have ever tasted, the hand cut chips are excellent overall great traditional food. Thursday night is especially good as there is a quiz, and the pub is full and buzzing. Delicious sausages are brought round to the quizzers, it is a great night. Well worth a visit if you are in the area.
Dianadelph . 2018-04-29
MORE AT TripAdvisor
We visited at lunch time and had a great welcome. A table by a real fire was a fantastic treat (it was a very cold day)! The staff were quick and attentive and they happily chatted away to all their customers. Food was excellent and the portion size means you will never leave this place hungry! Fantastic value for money and lovely menu with a great range of produce - hearty northern food to the spice of the east. Deserts are worth a mention and if you only feel a little hungry then skip the main and go straight to desert - believe me you won’t be disappointed.
BelleWales . 2018-02-09
MORE AT TripAdvisor
I visited at lunchtime. The pub was really cosy with a number of different rooms boasting real fires. The atmosphere was lovely; very relaxed and friendly. There was a wonderful warm welcome from staff. The food menu was good, offering a range of delicious traditional dishes. I really enjoyed my visit and will definitely visit again in the future,
Patricia H . 2018-01-21
MORE AT TripAdvisor
We've been lucky to have adopted this pub as our local since moving to Dobcross 8 months ago. It's so welcoming, the staff are lovely and we've never had a problem with the food served. They make an awesome beef madras. Lovely lunchtime menu too. Check it out!
carldon . 2018-01-17
MORE AT TripAdvisor
My meal was nice (curry daily special, although they were unable to offer the vegetarian version offered on their menu), however fellow diners were unimpressed with their meals. A shame as this restaurant came highly recommended, believe it may be under new / fairly recent management.
Mandy S . 2018-01-15
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Despite having had a disappointing experience previously since the change of ownership we returned as friends staying with us like the village and wanted to stop off for lunch there. We had a couple of cold starters and there were issues with portion size. Service was ok but overall a very underwhelming experience and we won't return.
362jeff . 2017-11-08
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Attended a surprise party here in the upstairs room. Excellent staff were just lovely and the food served was really good. Good choice of ales and drinks and all round brilliant evening.
Mark H . 2017-10-16
MORE AT TripAdvisor
We visited the Swan on Sunday afternoon during yanks weekend, they were running a special menu which is understandable because of the high turnover. The food was good, it was a little disappointing there was no entertainment on as in previous years but I think this was due to a recent change in management, I'm sure it will be sorted for next year. Lovely unique pub, plenty of history, we are lucky to have it on our doorstep.
MIKECHRISManchester . 2017-09-11
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Had visitors in the weekends from Yanks to Rushcart. Daily combinations of long walks punctuated with beer and food. I regard The Swan as one of Saddleworth's most iconic pubs. Location, interior, feel and beer means its a must when you have visiting guests. However the visits were let down by the food on each visit, and it seemed to get worse. The last visit was one of those where your guests faces and words do not match, they were being well mannered. However watching the reactions and listening to the conversations of other tables, there was an obvious consensus.
ModGrowler . 2017-09-04
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Lovely warm and welcoming pub with a very friendly manager explaining all the new events taking place
Anita H . 2017-08-09
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Yo he visitado el swan en varias ocasiones nunca realmente tenía un problema hasta que un par de noches atrás cuando estaba disfrutando de una comida regular, el Cajún necesita un poco más de condimento. . Todo estaba bien hasta el frente de la casa...
Katie W . 2017-06-23
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Oído mucho de este galardonado pub y después de haber estado en el teatro arriba antes y disfrutamos muchísimo pensamos que esta vez sin probar la comida.
cocinero168 . 2017-06-16
MORE AT TripAdvisor
food is brileant hard to find well worth it,staff very good helpfull pleasent noghthing to much trouble
philip o . 2017-06-04
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Went with my mother for Sunday lunch food was excellent even if we did just have starters staff pleasant will b going back again the dessert my mother had was lovely I liked the way they give u bread with dips while waiting for food
Barbara H . 2017-05-28
MORE AT TripAdvisor
My wife and I called for lunch on the recommendation of a friend - we were not disappointed! This is a lovely venue right on the village square in Dobcross - plenty of parking in adjacent lanes.A very wide-ranging menu with something to suit all tastes, and reasonably priced. The food was excellent, as was the service. Will definitely visit again.
Peter F . 2017-05-26
MORE AT TripAdvisor
The Swan is set right in The Square in Dobcross, Saddleworth. It's a lovely old village pub set right in the heart of this picturesque village. Plenty of car parking on the lanes nearby. We went for lunch. There's a very extensive menu including a 'specials board' and also a lunch-time menu offering slightly smaller portions (which suits me - I'm not a big lunch eater in terms of quantity). This pub has a really lovely atmosphere and the staff were really attentive. There's a well stocked bar with a good range of decent beers. Prices are mid-range and certainly not over the top. I really recommend The Swan - we will go back there again
PeterLF . 2017-03-31
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Good old fashioned pub food. Delicious and exactly what you want when you go to a traditional ale house!
Jemma D . 2017-01-12
MORE AT TripAdvisor
We could not get in at our 1st choice for Sunday lunch and came across the swan inn.The only day they serve food is on a Sunday and is home cooked. It was very enjoyable and we will return.
Anthony169 . 2016-10-02
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Absolute gem of a place, an olde worlde inn, in a olde worlde setting. An inn oozing character, and a ideal place to have lunch, with delightful food, and friendly staff! Highly recommended!
scottydog4 . 2016-07-24
MORE AT TripAdvisor
We were on a Sunday motorbike ride out and popped in for a light refreshment. Service with a smile and made to feel very welcome, we would definitely go back.
cccchhriss . 2016-05-29
MORE AT TripAdvisor
We descended upon the place, 4 adults and 2 Labradors without booking but were soon seated and sorted comfortably. The service really was excellent....really efficient and very friendly. I ordered a jacket potato, expecting the usual soulless but usually edible choice for someone with a dodgy tum.....what I got was the lightest and creamiest of creations....I ate the lot despite not having felt hungry!!! I had tuna mayonnaise with it which was equally sublime and not at all greasy, the salad was fresh, crispy and varied [pea sprouts and baby leaves, not just a lump of iceberg!]. Then some naughty ice-cream...yumalishus!!! What a delightful time we all had and the crowning glory was the price.....excellent value for money!!! Highly recommended!!!!!!!!
Nina L . 2016-04-17
MORE AT TripAdvisor
I recently visited The Swan, for the first time, with friends for Sunday lunch. We were accompanied by 2 labradors. Stupidly, I hadn't thought to book a table in advance, but all 4 adults and both dogs were swiftly accommodated and made to feel comfortable and welcome. The food was delicious and the salted caramel ice-cream was to die for!The customer service was incredible and the food was good value and excellent food. We'll definitely be going back!! :DThe only teensy little fly in the ointment was the difficulty with parking.
Sarah H . 2016-04-16
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Popped in on a Sunday on the way back from Dove Stones and got the last table. Cosy, traditional pub with real fires and background old blues music.Lovely waiting staff and the food is delicious. I had a very generous portion of rag pudding with chips n mushy peas which was superb. Will definitely go back if I'm in the area.
Hellikopta . 2016-02-07
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Great local produse, well prepared from a exellant menue, the youg lady {front of house} waitress is quite superb & friendly who enjoyes ezplaining the menue with passion & courtesy......the cheese & onion pie is a must the veg is always so fresh & goes down well with traditional local brewed pint of beer, and the puds are to die for. a dining experience that make you go back to & is sure to please all the family. well done {the swan} keep it up. mmg
maurice g . 2015-11-20
MORE AT TripAdvisor
We visited this pub restaurant for the first time last Saturday night, and we really enjoyed it! We felt very welcome, service was brilliant with the staff being very friendly and helpful. We had booked into the theatre above for the last night of the proms concert, this is a great little space, it felt cosy and inviting, a marvellous idea to have this in a pub! Wish more places were like this, the hosts had obviously worked very hard to make it happen and for it to be as successful as it was, and there is a lot of interesting events taking place in the future so although a distance from where we live, will hopefully go back as soon as!
elle T . 2015-09-14
MORE AT TripAdvisor
We visited for Sunday lunch, two had chicken tikka which was as good as ever. However things were spoiled by the roast beef dinner which was very poor. Scraps of beef, rock hard roast potatoes and salty gravy. Didn't complain as in company but if we go again with same result will most certainly send it back. Hope this was a"one off" occurrence.
JohnandEddy . 2015-09-06
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Love coming to The Swan for drinks weekday eves or weekend. Pretty location and traditional pub. Food also very good, have eaten as a couple and with a party, staff always friendly.
Leanne W . 2015-08-28
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Attended my great aunts birthday party here! The location and building are beautiful! The staff were all wonderful and we had so much fun!
jlcauser . 2015-08-14
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Very professional service. Food is very tasty and well presented. Lovely old fashioned pub in a lovely scenic village. Very clean
alison w . 2015-07-29
MORE AT TripAdvisor
I treated my friends to dinner here last month,my third visit. I love this place,lovely open fires,great beers,sofas to sit and read the newspapers etc.But oh,my teeny weeny portion of Cheese Pie,I think I got the very last tiny wedge that would have made even a child's portion look mean! If they never had to enough pie left to warrant an adult portion,I should have been told it was "off the menu", or been charged half?So,as happens more and more to me in the U.K.,yet another dining out venue off my list. I honestly ane truly just rely on Fish+Chip Shop takeaways,MacDonalds and M+S sandwiches for proven quality,value and CONSISTENCY. Noone else seems to care or be able to consistently provide decent dining out.
yammidave . 2015-07-01
MORE AT TripAdvisor
We took our French bulldog who was given a warm welcome by the landlord. While my partner enjoyed a pint of Cumberland ale we decided to grab the last table for late lunch. The portion sizes were big and food tasty. As a vegetarian it was nice to have a couple of dishes to choose from including something from the specials. The bakewell pudding was delish! Really friendly waitress and warm, relaxed atmosphere. Would definitely go back.
Rinnaponygirl . 2015-06-14
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Traditional village pub come restaurant. Logs burning on the grate. Small old fashioned listed building. Very good home cooked food, friendly atmosphere, Good access but parking not too easy. Never dissapointed here.My favourite Mrs P's cheese & onion pie, heavenly.
aj-ferncroft . 2015-06-05
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Compared with other comments on here, we found the landlords and the waiting staff to be brilliant and very welcoming. The food looked good and great effort had been made in the presentation, but most dishes looked better than they tasted. Maybe we were unlucky with the dishes we had chosen, but none of us had fresh veg offered, which is a bit odd.We went Bank Holiday Monday, when the pub does not normally do food and as a result there were few diners. The Swan offers smaller portions of certain lunchtime dishes, but not on a Sunday or a Bank Holiday Monday. I can understand this on a busy Sunday, but on a day when there were so few covers? It's the same food as the full size dish, just smaller portions, so why not be more accommodating? It just mean that more was paid and half the food went back to the kitchen. What a waste!The cheese and onion pie comes with baked beans as standard and when asked could this be changed, the only veg offer was peas - not very inspiring. Why was no fresh veg offered? The beef with peppercorn sauce had whole not crushed peppercorns which was too overpowering. Black pudding starter came with potatoes (odd mix) and was sat on a dollop of tomato ketchup, described as "odd" from a man who gets through a bottle of tommy k a week. The fish pie was good but again, came with a salad with no option of veg or chips or salad. The Thai curry looked great - the rice was in a popadom flower, but the curry itself was described as "gelatinous gloop - Tesco's is better".The toilets were clean but very dated in style and do not fit the ambiance that the landlords are trying to create. Parking was a nightmare too, so overall I would eat there again, but I would not rush back there. It is more expensive than most other pubs in the area which is not reflected in the quality.
lbj1963 . 2015-05-10
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Beautiful place, very welcoming atmosphere the food is lovely and there are some unusual things on the menu. We have been several times and always enjoyed it. They have a small theatre upstairs and do different theme events with singers, comedians and short plays combined with a meal.
entsbiza . 2015-05-06
MORE AT TripAdvisor
We visited on Mothers Day as we had been a few weeks prior and the food and service was good. This time however something seemed different. We ordered drinks and food and had a bit of a wait (wasn't busy either) but we were in no rush so not a problem. My husband had ordered a starter off the specials of tandoori chicken - he said it wasn't nice - it was just like it had one of those cheap 'rub' style coatings on it....we were hoping it was just a 'blip' we were then served our mains - the lamb roast dinner was given to my husband who ordered beef and it was only on tasting it he realised he had the wrong meal! The salmon was tiny and came with lots of salad and about 2 new potatoes! To be honest the meals were not that nice at all - the roast potatoes were hard, the meat was average and the vegetables were tasteless. Also the yorkshire pudding was too well done. Also we were not asked if we wanted any sauces at all with any of the meals (we had kids with us too) and were not asked once in the 2 hours we were there if we need any more drinks. We were all quite shocked as like I say the last time we visited it was much better - it was as if the chef had changed or something. Then on to the desserts which again were average - the jam roly poly was stodgy and had very little jam! I am not a picky person but just feel that it is such a shame compared to the prior visit. As there are many other nice places in the area I doubt we would go back.
Lou17Manchester . 2015-03-17
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Went for a meal here last nigh. Food was lovely very tasty and plenty of it. The homemade vegetable crisps were gorgeous. Service was very good and very friendly. Will definitely go back to go through their lovely menue .
carsim06 . 2015-03-15
MORE AT TripAdvisor
This is such a lovely pub to go to for a meal. It definitely beats the standards of "pub food". All the food is presented so eloquently, and is served quickly and efficiently. I strongly recommend the Gammon, which is such good value for money with a good sized meat, plenty of chips and a very generous amount of garden peas. They definitely don't hold back on getting you full up!Going in for a general drink is just as nice. The locals are friendly and talkactive, the staff are a delight to converse with, and it is also a very dog friendly pub, which is a great addition. Nothing to fault at all, happy to call this my local! :D
Claudia T . 2015-02-26
MORE AT TripAdvisor
I should have known what to expect when reading the menu as the list of dishes was far too great to be achievable in a pub kitchen on a busy lunchtime. Very little was fresh with the veggies a real disappointment as some were overcooked to the point of disintegration. The 'chips' weren't chips at all but new potatoes fried and reheated, and the steak and mushroom pie qualified for contravening the trade descriptions act as no sign of any mushrooms at all. By way of response to my comment i was told 'all the mushrooms must be in the remaining portion of the pie'!!!Why do landlords think they can get away with second rate food when the ambience and location deserves better
Calotypist . 2015-02-21
MORE AT TripAdvisor
The Swan is a delightful local pub with a range of real ales and plenty of space to dine (booking Essential). The food is fantastic, and there is a small Theatre upstairs where a range of plays and music is often performed. A real gem in the heart of the beautiful Pennines. Keep up the good work Tim and Michael, see you again soon.
Michael H . 2014-12-19
MORE AT TripAdvisor
We visited for lunch at end of November just before the excellent xmas menu starts but this place is a great country type pub. Welcoming, great food and great beer. I just love the cheese and onion pie!
Corneliusfudge . 2014-12-14
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Great meal today at the swan even better as we could take the dog. Would recommend to anyone looking for a great meal.
Diane3455 . 2014-11-16
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Had an amazing evening - great food, great service great atmosphere! The staff and management were so welcoming! The locals were really friendly and I met some great characters! Would recommend The Swan to anyone.
MalcolmD73 . 2014-10-08
MORE AT TripAdvisor
We have visited the Swan on several occasions for Sunday Lunch, normally with family or friends that come to visit.We ordered our starters and mains, the pea and ham soup was more pea with a tiny bit of ham, it came with a slice of bread which had obviously been sat under the heat lamps as it was dry. The other starters of black pudding tower with very pleasant by all accounts.The mains were a cheese and onion pie, a couple of roasts and a burger.The burger was not great, a dry lump of over cooked meat, the bun disintegrated when you touched it as that too was dry. Needless to say the bun was left and I tried to force the meat down as I didn't want to offend the in-laws who were treating us to this lunch.Sorry to say but I won't be returning to The Swan again, I also think a lot of people have given up as it's normally busy on a Sunday lunch but was very quiet on this occasion.If you find my review helpful please click the button below. Thanks.
vaso99 . 2014-10-06
MORE AT TripAdvisor
The Swan Inn or the Top House as it is locally known, occupies a prominent position in Dobcross village square, Dobcross being one of a series of villages which make up the district known as Saddleworth which lies 15 miles East of Manchester on the edge of the Peak District National Park. The building dates from the 1700s and is typical of the stone built structures in this part of the country. One of the former landlords was part of the Wrigley family who after emigrating to the USA became part of the Wrigley chewing gum empire. The Swan Inn also featured in the 1979 film Yanks which starred Richard Gere and Vanessa Redgrave. The Swan Inn has had several landlords in the past who have provided food on the premises, however the current owners have taken things to a new level, and following considerable internal renovations re vamped the menu to appeal to a wide range of tastes. A group of seven of us ate there recently and having all enjoyed three courses each, were amazed that the price was less than 25 pounds per head (excluding drinks). A further attraction to the Swan is the mini theatre productions which are periodically held in the upstairs function room. Early booking is recommended as the maximum capacity is around 60 persons.
bodkinAmman . 2014-09-08
MORE AT TripAdvisor
As locals, both me and my husband agreed that; even though we live near a superb pub - The Navigation, in Dobcross, we would do our bit to support the new landlords when they took over the Swan. We would easily spend £40 - £50 on a Sunday afternoon, and, go up to see the shows during the week and have a meal there too. We would take our two dogs with us, especially as the landlords advertise as 'dog friendly' , and sit in the corner of the newly refurbished room away from people; however, on this particular day, we were told in a none too polite manner that we would have to go and sit outside because one of our dogs had farted... I ask you!!!!! You would think that; seeing as the landlords have two dogs of their own, they would possibly understand that dogs, much like humans, fart..!!!!! We were nowhere near the eating area either!So, off we went to sit outside in the cold and drizzle, unfortunately, the landlord had allowed us to buy two more pints before he told us to go outside, otherwise I would have left without buying another! I had to do the 'walk of shame' past all the other 'none farting' dogs in the pub, and, we have not been back since due to the totally unwelcoming atmosphere that the pub now has. The new landlords should maybe put a sign on the door to inform people what and what isn't allowed before they go in... ie; children are welcome as long as they're completely silent and don't budge an inch while they're in there, dogs allowed as long as they don't fart, people allowed as long as they.. Don't sit at the bar, make any noise (especially laughter!!) and don't outstay their non existent welcome for more than 30 seconds just in case they're harassed to drink up and leave..!!! Maybe it would be easier to make a much more concise and succinct sign saying what IS allowed...!!!! What a shame to see that the new landlords have forced so many locals to avoid going in their pub now due to their attitude towards them.
Julie W . 2014-08-31
MORE AT TripAdvisor
we are regular visitors to the Swan and always enjoy a friendly welcome and the atmosphere in the place since the developments is excellent. Take time to try out some of the shows in the upstairs theatre which are generally well organised and performed and the food is good quality, wholesome fare
Frank P . 2014-08-20
MORE AT TripAdvisor
I recently visited this pub after vowing not to go again due to a bad experience with the landlords. I went trying to keep an open mind and within minutes we were already being told off for sitting at the bar. This pub has lost all character and personality due to the pompous and pretentious landlords that run the establishment. Soon there will be more rules than customers. If you would like an enjoyable relaxing evening do not go here you will be very disappointed.
Saddleworthlocal . 2014-08-12
MORE AT TripAdvisor
The meal that we had was expensive, plain and not good. There was very little choice. We were being rushed continuously by the landlord, who seemed to have a right old attitude.He started off being quite friendly, but when we complained about one of the meals, he went berserk. He is quite a big fellow, and my wife found him very intimidating. This was all in front of other diners in the pub. The drinks are also expensive, and we noticed that the wine had gone up by about 80p since our last visit. We have lived around the village for many years, and this is the worst experience that we have had there. All our friends used to go in, but many have now moved to other establishments. As one of your other reviewers commented, this is no longer a nice local village pub.This is now about 2 lads making as much money as possible.
dobcrosslocal . 2014-07-14
MORE AT TripAdvisor
The last time that I visited the Swan was about 3 years ago. I lived in Saddleworth at the time. The beer was good, and we had a very nice meal. Run by an Irishman, if I remember rightly. But the important thing for me, was that there was a good atmosphere, and a good mix of locals, some of whom were real characters. A real village pub. Not any more.!The pub as turned into a designer type destination pub. What! in a village, I hear you say.The whole place seems to have lost its character and characters.The majority of customers looked as though they had been shipped in from Cheshire.The staff were very dismissive when I mentioned the change. In fact there was a rather camp gentleman behind the bar who was down right rude. The minute we walked in, we were told that we couldn,t stand at the bar. We asked if we could have a slight variation to one of the dishes on the menu, ( due to an allergy my wife had ) and he was not only sarcastic, but more or less told us to go elsewhere. The food , when it did eventually come, was at best average. My meal weaved its way back to the kitchen to be warmed up. I did speak to a nice local couple on the way to the toilets, who told us that the general feeling around the village, was that the pub had been spoilt. They talked of dogs, children and families not being made welcome. Locals being barred I was also told that the food is better at the other local pub. Thats where I will be heading the next time.
john b . 2014-06-26
MORE AT TripAdvisor
When everyone turned up at the Swan in fancy dress last week, full of life and fun, trying to get the beer walk going again, the landlord was as miserable as sin. What an extremely unwelcoming and grumpy landlord. Am boycotting that pub.
Bill B . 2014-06-24
MORE AT TripAdvisor
The two of us popped in to have our tea after ringing to book. Friendly, quick service. Lovely food.
Eski . 2014-05-23
MORE AT TripAdvisor
The service was great food very tasty staff welcoming and helpful good menu decor warm and inviting would recommend a visit while on a drive out
Ed J . 2014-05-16
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Great traditional pub offering a selection of good cask beers - and great locally sourced food in home cooked style - plus a few more exotic specials
Nick752 . 2014-05-11
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Invariably has a range of upto 5 real ales from the Marston's stable of beers. Always in tip top condition, warm welcoming pub with added attractions of theatre, music, comedy tonights in a small intimate upstairs room. Well worth a visit.
Philip S . 2014-05-04
MORE AT TripAdvisor
After arriving in oldham staying with friends, one of them who worked here told us about Thursday night quiz nights! Omg so much fun!! With being mostly English orientated there's 6 different sections.. but it's still a good laugh.. :) we've also eaten here, lovely hearty pub food!! We now go there every week for quiz night :) being from Australia pubs are so different here! Much more welcoming and cosy!! :)
KaylaJason . 2014-04-28
MORE AT TripAdvisor
This was a pub this was a pub that did home cooked food this was a pub that was good for a pint this was a pub that was amazingEverything above has now goneBeers is average. Food is over priced and not hearty home cooked foodDon't dare stand at the bar as you'll be told to moveAnd if the landlord doesn't like your conversation he will tell you to stopA local pub that is now just a building that serves foodBad for parkingBad for customer service
RJ-JMR . 2014-04-27
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Have been here a couple of times now, strongly recommend the specials menu. Hosts are wonderful, nothing too much trouble and the food excellent. Can't wait for our next visit!
brambles2014 . 2014-04-20
MORE AT TripAdvisor
After working in The Swan as a lad and as a resident of the local village, I was horrified when i went to The Swan with friends for drinks. We were chased out of the pub at 11:05pm, and harassed for our glasses, TWICE in one minute.They treated us like riff-raff....their suitable clientele park in inappropriate places on the road, blocking local access for residents, god forbid a fire engine needs to get past!!I will be telling people not to go in, even for the toilet.....
c0ncerned_resident . 2014-04-08
MORE AT TripAdvisor
dined here on a Thursday night /surprisingly busy for mid week but you can see why imeadiatlylovely warm cosy atmosphere very friendly and attentive staff owner taking time out to be a good hostfood is lovely home cooked traditional pub food good portions well presented and promptly served good choice both the regular dishes and the specialswill be coming back soonstraw bear
strawbear . 2014-02-06
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Visited a couple of times on lead up to christmas. Must admit I loved the cheese and onion pie. Great home cooked food with big servings coupled with some good ale this is a place to try. Friendly staff
Corneliusfudge . 2013-12-15
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Cosy little pub in a beautiful tiny village ,recently renovated,but sorry not for me,fairly busy midweek tea time,service good.But typical pub grub you could easily make at home,too big a menu ,a problem I find in many of similar establishments.Come on lads you can do better than this,you have had the balls to take it on when it was dead on its feet,and done a nice job,but your menu is tiresome,you can get that anywhere,especially at home .Think out of the box ,try something different,have some imagination,the bar has little choice,the menu too much.Disappointed.
John W . 2013-09-23
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Doing our best to make the most of a rare outbreak of English Summer, we found this pub via Google and weren't disappointed with it as a choice for an afternoon pub lunch.Set in an idyllic spot, and with the premises kept in lovely condition, The Swan offers a reassuringly familiar range of tried and tested pub classics and a friendly welcome.Across the board, we were all delighted with our meals, with the prawn pasta (a daily special when we visited) getting particular praise. Considering that we weren't much more than half an hour outside city centre Manchester, not much over £50 for a main, dessert and drinks for 4 people is, frankly, stupendous value for money, with the fare very much putting the 'sausage factory' two for a tenner chain pubs to shame. Service was efficient and attentive.One suggestion I'd make would be to add something a little more adventurous than the ubiquitous San Miguel as the premium lager option on tap, although I appreciate brewery ties can come in to play here.Overall, we had a delightful meal in a great pub, at a great price. What more can you ask for?
289Tom . 2013-07-19
MORE AT TripAdvisor
This pub is superbly situated in one of the most iconic spots in Saddleworth. It has always seemed popular but there was always something not quite right with the layout that a succession of owners never got to grips with. It was dingy, pokey and felt crowded even when it wasn't. Yes, a great atmosphere if what you want is propping up the bar.A few months ago the new licensees did what has been needed for years; knocked down the wall next to the bar and immediately transformed the place.
iamian16 . 2013-07-14
MORE AT TripAdvisor
This is another place in Saddleworth that I like to visit. Quaint little village and the the pub is definitely a main factor here. Cosy rooms with wood burning fires and well kept ales (so the hubby says!). A must visit if you're in the area.
Jessica M . 2013-05-21
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Oh what a treat, what a lovely place to have your lunch, open fire, lovely decore, and a warm and friendly welcome from the people who run it, to the lovely girl waitress. The food is traditional like cheese and onion pie chips and beans, my partners favourite! I like the specials chicken with tarragon and mushroom sauce was just delicious. There was five of us today and we all had different. I wanted to try it all. Please give it a go you will not be disappointed. Great value for money too
Allison W . 2013-02-26
MORE AT TripAdvisor
My friends and I called into the Swan recently. The welcome we received from whom I assume is one of the owners was warm and genuine and that made us feel welcomed. The Swan in recent times has been on a bit of a downer. My last visit when the pub was run by different people was tired, drab and very untidy. On my recent visit the pub has been cleaned up. It looks bright and is tastefully decorated. Our intention was to only call in for a pint but we were asked if we would like to look at a menu and are we glad we did. We opted for the Rag Pudding, chips and mushy peas that was very tasty, with proper chips and a great Rag Pudding. Our pub lunch was excellent and our whole experience from entering the pub to leaving was very enjoyable. I only hope the continuity continues because the people who run the Swan certainly know how to run a pub!!!
mancunian78 . 2013-02-19
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Similary restaurants in North West
259 Opinions
1941 Opinions
It was a sat afternoon was reasonably busy , service and food excellent it di get busier later in the afternoon , will be going again
337 Opinions
Food is amazing especially the mega wrap!!! Service and the people are lovely.