An extra-busy Nicholson’s pub on the junction of Hammersmith Broadway and King Street, The Swan has ten – count ‘em! – handpumps serving up real ales and cider from across the UK.

The Venue
Nicholson’s, a group who were committed to ale long before its current boom, own this sprawling historical site in the midst of the concrete mess that is Hammersmith Broadway. Set over two floors, it has plenty of history and a public house has sat on this site for a couple of centuries. The traditional décor has largely been maintained but there are modern flourishes like the fleur-de-lys print on the velvet wallpaper. That aside it’s a fairly traditional building with the odd stained glass window and ornate wooden and glass gateways that provide access to different areas around a central bar area. Upstairs, there’s an additional big, airy room, which has previous dating back to the 1960s as a wedding reception space for the area’s ferociously thirsty Irish community. Nowadays, there are less Irish people but the room still buzzes at most times of the day.

The Atmosphere
This part of Hammersmith is a blur of activity, with workers, locals and passers-through all going briskly about their business. Given its prominent position, The Swan attracts huge crowds particularly at peak times (after-work, in the evening). And people of all ages, gender and nationalities can be found here.

The Food
Steaks, including a sirloin steak chop (around £17) are served as well as gammon, egg and chips and other pub grub. If it’s quality pub food you’re after, the best place around here is the Dartmouth Castle, a foodie pub that’s only a couple of minutes walk away.

The Drink
Ten pumps pour a quality selection of ales at very reasonable prices. Some tipples cost as little as £2.70 a pint, a great price in the current climate, and even the guest ales from the likes of the highly-rated Thornbridge brewery cost £3.30 a pint – more than reasonable. A comprehensive selection of lagers, wine and spirits are also available.

The Last Word
The Swan’s fantastic selection of ales mark it out as one of the best pubs in Hammersmith for the capital’s growing legion of ale aficionados.

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