The Swan, Ash Vale

Nice pub for food - not really a place to go if you just want a drink due to the constant crush of people at all times of the day.

The staff are young, plentiful and very friendly - you cannot fault them.

The food is good value, plentiful and has an upmarket feel about it for the price.

The beer garden is great for kids and as it is next to the canal, good for boats or Swan spotters or ramblers. Plenty of off-road parking.

There is always a new guest ale or two to sample here.

As a non-smoker, I would prefer that the eating area outside the pub was non-smoking and that the smokers area was located at the otherside of the beer garden away from the kids but I guess I am in the minority on that one.

2 Jan 2010 01:50

The Cricketers, Guildford

I visited on New Years Eve with my wife . This was a ticketed entrance day due to the date and the availability of a band - fair enough. The car park was mostly empty and there were very few people in the pub so I decided to go in and listen to the band and welcome in the new year.

It was past 2300 hrs and I requested two tickets. However, I was bluntly told that the event was fully sold out and asked to leave by the landlord!

So what you might think - but wait, I am in my 50's, I held my wedding party at this pub and had visted on many occasions to eat. If not a daily regular I am at least one of the better clients.

And as it was past 2300 hrs, the landlord new that I wouldnt be able to get to another venue before midnight so why was I bluntly turned away? Why was there still a sign outside the pub advertising the evening and tickets?

BTW - the food at this pub has gone down hill steadily over the past 12 months in line with the prices going up.

Personally, I recommend that if you find yourself in this area and need a decent pub to eat, go on to the Swan at Ash Vale where you will get much better beer and a very, friendly welcome!

2 Jan 2010 01:34