The Swan in Clewer is more than a pub it’s a symbol of what community power and purpose can achieve. Saved from the brink of redevelopment in 2019, The Swan has been reborn as a thriving, co-owned community venue that also uniquely houses a sixth-form college. The pub is now a vibrant hub for locals of all ages and backgrounds, hosting everything from choir nights and themed dinners to inclusive school-led initiatives, festivals, and charity fundraisers.
Since reopening in 2019, The Swan has evolved into one of the UK’s most dynamic community pubs. It now boasts:
- Over 20 regular clubs and groups, including a book club, board games group, Windsor Cycle Hub, and conversational French.
- Weekly community events such as quiz nights, bingo, cribbage, karaoke, and family-oriented movie nights.
- Seasonal celebrations like Burns Night, St George’s Day, SwanFest (a summer beer and family fun festival), Dark Ale Festival, and Christmas in July.
- Themed three-course dinners prepared by volunteers and served to the public.
- A Christmas market, annual carol service, and Breakfast with Santa, bringing the community together across generations.
- Onsite education via The Green Room College, a sixth form supporting young people who have not thrived in mainstream settings. Students host weekly ‘Epic Thursdays’ brunches and serve evening meals through their project, The Green Canteen.
The Swan’s resurrection has sparked a groundswell of community pride and involvement. Residents feel true ownership of the pub, participating in its programming, fundraising, and day-to-day running. The pub’s inclusive nature has created a unique space where neurodiverse students, seniors, parents, children, and volunteers all feel at home.
The Swan, Clewer stands out as a unique national model for what pubs can achieve. With community ownership, a school onsite, and programming that supports everyone from vulnerable students to elderly regulars, The Swan embodies innovation, heart, and inclusion.
