A BEAUTIFUL BEER GARDEN IS BLOOMING AT THE SWAN & DOG, GREAT CHART, THANKS TO A RECENT REFURBISHMENT

The beautiful beer garden at the front of Shepherd Neame’s Swan and Dog in Great Chart is creating a buzz with punters and passers-by alike.

It’s not just the bees visiting the plethora of blooming plants now adorning the spacious garden of the village pub which are keen on their addition, as General Manager Joanne Rodwell reports even passers-by stop to compliment its new look.

A four-week project to refurbish the garden, repaint the front of the pub and install a newly-designed swing sign has been a hit with everyone.

Jo said: “The feedback has been so positive. People walk past and say how beautiful it is looking. It has definitely brought more people in the gate – everyone wants to sit out there now!”

The refurbishment included new hand-painted signage on the pub’s frontage, and saw the large parasols reupholstered. Some new garden furniture has been added to the rest, which was refurbished, and the area can now comfortably seat more than 80 people.

The garden previously had no greenery, but pretty planters, barrels and shelves are now overflowing with flora and fauna, brought in by Tops Pots, who were commissioned to soften its look by Shepherd Neame’s Development Project Manager Emily Gosden.

Its new swing sign, which was painted by Canterbury-based signwriter Julian Wilton, depicts a more gentle scene between a dog and a swan.

The picket fence around the garden has been painted white, and a new, central gate is being created at the front, next to the swing sign. The existing lighting has also been updated so the garden is inviting right into the evening.
            
The pub, which dates back to the 16th century, has always been a haven for socialising and the new look garden has increased its appeal further.

Jo admitted: “When we have finished work, we also take some time to go and sit out there, as we can see how much our customers are enjoying it through the day!

“The atmosphere has been amazing and we have had some great weather recently to enjoy it. It has really given it a new lease of life, and made the pub a little more in keeping with the style of other buildings in the village.”

The friendly pub in Great Chart is open from noon seven days a week, and until 10pm Monday to Thursday and Sunday, and 11pm on Friday and Saturday. It serves generous portions of freshly prepared dishes using locally sourced ingredients, complemented by a selection of Kentish ales, lagers, and a carefully curated wine list.

You can find The Swan and Dog at The Street, Great Chart, Ashford, TN23 3AN, call 01233 643222, and to book visit www.swananddog.co.uk.