A friendly and welcoming pub.
3.5
3.5
Date of visit: September 2016
I have experience of challenges around: understanding
Overall Rating
Good
A family friendly pub with a fair level of accessibility for wheelchair users. The staff were very friendly, particularly with an individual in our group who has a learning disability and willing to adapt to our needs. They serve delicious food in a very pleasant restaurant as well as having a buzzing bar environment and beer garden.
Disabled Access In and Around
Average
There is level access throughout the majority of the pub, although a small part of the restaurant seating is up a small step. All seating in the bar area is on a level access and chairs can be moved to accommodate a wheelchair. Although there are no steps into the building on the two front entrances, there are large ridges on the base of both doorframes. Upon exit from the pub into the beer garden, there is a step down. All entrances have manually operated doors and the bar is at standard height throughout the pub which may restrict wheelchair users, although there is plenty of room for manoeuvring within the building. There is currently no hearing loop within The Swan and they do not offer a carer discount, although smaller food portions are available for a discounted price.
Parking & Transport
Poor
There is no parking area designated to The Swan, however there are parking facilities across the road in Parliament Square. The nearest disabled parking bay is located nearby to this at the entrance to Parliament Street. There are also disabled parking facilities a short (3 minute) walk away in Shoprite car park. The walk from both of these car parks has lowered kerbs and pelican crossings with audio prompts when crossing roads.
Accessible Toilets
Good
The accessible toilet in The Swan is well kept and has grab rails, an alarm cord and sufficient space. However it is difficult to locate as there is no sign on the door.
Staff
Excellent
The staff were very friendly during our visit and made us all feel very welcome. They were more than willing to address any queries or questions that we had and interacted well with all of our group, including a member who has a learning disability.
Additional Information
Dogs are welcome in The Swan and a dog bowl with water is provided. I would recommend The Swan to others, particularly families or those with learning disabilities. Although the facilities at The Swan are adequate for wheelchair users, the height of the bar and difficulty accessing the beer gardens may influence the experience of individuals.
