24th February 2008
Built in 1777 and still going strong
The White Swan is an historic Richmond pub which was built in 1777. It is located not far from the river, on a narrow street that runs along the wall of the old Richmond Palace. It is more gastropub than pub these days, and is a very popular place with locals, particularly for Sunday lunch. The dining area is split over two rooms, and there is a lovely outdoor section to the rear.
We dropped by for lunch one Sunday - I rang one day in advance and as there was just the two of us they managed to fit us in. The pub was almost full when we arrived, and they were turning people away not long after that.
The menu, printed daily, was short - 5 starters, 6 mains and 5 desserts. We decided to go for the more traditional Sunday lunch options - the Roast Beef and the Roast Lamb. Both were served with roast potatoes, cauliflower with cheese, and seasonal vegetable, and of course the beef came with a Yorkshire pudding. Both meals were very tasty, though the lamb was the standout.
An enjoyable meal, friendly service, and a great old pub are a good recipe for Sunday lunch - we will return.