About Us - The Swan Inn

Nestled in the picturesque New Forest, The Swan Inn is more than just a pub, it's a labour of love!

The Swan Inn was originally called the Swan Alehouse and the publican was one Andrew Eastram. The site has had several uses over time including New Forest pony sales in the yard which were formerly held on Swan Green.  This major event in the New Forest Calendar that can be dated back to the mid nineteenth century. As road traffic was on the increase (not a new problem) the pony sales and fair were moved in 1922 to just outside of Lyndhurst.

In the 1960's the building became Swan Garage and Car Hire. As well as car repairs and car hire it also had a petrol station. The business was very successful and grew to become Swan National Car Hire.

Fire almost completely destroyed The White Swan on 28th January 2006 and ninety four fire-fighters tackled the blaze for four hours. According to the Fire Service the fire started in the roof in the early hours of the morning. The pub landlady and her son     escaped unhurt and the A35 was closed in both directions. A rebuild produced the landmark on the main A35 that it is today.

The White Swan public house was purchased by a local New Forest lad in 2008 and, after refurbishment of the kitchens and first floor accommodation, reopened as The Swan Inn in late summer.

Within the hostelry is a superb picture of Harry Brusher Mills, the New Forest Snake Catcher, a well known figure in his day. He was born on 19th March 1840 and lived near Bank in a small wooden construction of his own making called a 'widwan'.

The Croll Seat

Take time to find the The Croll Seat in the pub with the story alongside the bench dedicated to the tale. We are indeed lucky to call the real life Mr Croll as "family"!

Long ago, travelling in this area meant crossing moorland and dense forest. Many were the fortunes who were lost, never to be seen again.

Then stories began to be told of lost souls being found and helped by a mysterious being called The Croll. This kindly creature would lead them to his dwelling and there treat them as honoured guests, giving them ample food and drink and a warm place to rest before showing them the way. The Croll would take no payment but made his guests promise that, should he ever be in need, they would be as hospitable as he had been. This, of course, they promised, but human nature is human nature and in the course of time many forgot their debt. How many times the Croll was turned away cold and hungry, we shall never know.

For the conclusion of the tale visit The Swan Inn and rest awhile on The Croll Seat.