The Swan in Southwold has reopened after what owner Adnams describes as a “once in a generation” transformation to turn the 35-room hotel into a world class destination.
The theme of the new look reflects the presence of Adnams’ award-winning brewery and distillery in the “back yard” of the Swan, featuring in design touches throughout the hotel and at a new visitors centre nearby which will be the new base for brewery and distillery tours.
Emma Hibbert, marketing director at Adnams, said: “We’re delighted with how the transformation has turned out and we believe The Swan is something Adnams, Southwold and our county can be very proud of.
“The Swan been a focal point in Southwold for over a hundred years and the work will ensure this is still the case long into the future.”
She added: “We wanted the celebrate the link between the hotel and our brewery and distillery to create an unbeatable staycation spot in Suffolk.”
The Swan has been closed since January this year to enable the extensive work to be carried out, with Adnams enlisting the help of an army of local companies including Duncan & Son of Southwold which has carried out the majority of the building work.
Adnams has collaborated with design studio Project Orange to create the interior look which celebrates the company’s coastal location and heritage. It also features specially commissioned pieces from local artists and light-fittings hand blown in Suffolk.
Two new restaurants have been created – The Still Room and The Tap Room – which will both be overseen by Adnams’ new executive head chef, Ross Bott. He brings a wealth of experience with him having worked alongside the likes of Adam Simmonds, Pierre Koffmann and Atul Kochhar.
Guests will also be able to enjoy afternoon tea in the Drawing Room, with private dining available for special occasions in The Juniper Room or The Reading Room.
The Still Room restaurant is open from noon until 3pm and from 6pm to 10pm, with booking recommended. The Tap Room is open throughout from noon until 10pm with no booking required. Room bookings are also now open.
The Swan dates back to the late 1600s and many of the original features have been retained, such as the striking façade and the characterful weaving corridors and staircases.
Design references include copper fittings to reflect the distillery, the famous local figure “Southwold Jack” on bespoke tiles, Swan motifs and flashes of vibrant Adnams’ colours, such as bright pink paint on modern four-poster beds.
The completion of the work was celebrated at a reception yesterday evening with the hotel opening its doors to the public tomorrow.
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