Elegant New Look for the Swan Inn

Historic 19th century pub The Swan in Maidstone has reopened following an extensive £80,000 refurbishment.
 
Work at the traditional town centre pub, owned by Shepherd Neame, included redecorating the bar area, including introducing a new back bar display and wood effect flooring. A log burning stove was installed in the snug area, which now has flagstone flooring. The toilets have been completely refurbished, and new lighting and decorations have been introduced throughout the pub. The pub exterior has been repainted, with traditional sign writing, and its walled garden has been refurbished.
 
The pub also has a new licensee, Anna-Marie Snell from Larkfield, who moved in at the start of September. Anna-Marie, 32, worked in pubs for several years before taking time out to be a full-time Mum to her four children, aged from three to 13.
 
She said:

I was ready to get back into work, and started looking around for pubs in the area. As soon as I walked in The Swan, I knew it was the right one. It had a really friendly atmosphere, and was in a great location. I also liked the idea of taking over the pub after the refurbishment work, as it gave me a clean slate to put my stamp on.

Anna-Marie will be running the pub with her partner Aaron Chamber, along with her sister-in-law, brother and Mum.