A VENUE in a village near Chester has been named 'Pub of the Year' in the Marketing Cheshire tourism awards.

The Swan at Tarporley, a historic coaching inn, turned cosy pub picked up the accolade this month, with judges saying its friendly staff made people feel “like individuals rather than just another customer.”

Highly commended in the ‘Small Serviced Venue Provider’ category too, the Bear Inns team, responsible for both The Swan at Tarporley and its sister venue The Lion at Malpas, took home the award on Thursday, March 23.

Chester and District Standard:

This news comes as Tarporley was named one of the best places to live by The Times.

The Swan at Tarporley underwent an extensive renovation in 2020 of both its internal areas, patio and bedrooms – transforming its interiors into quirky yet original and traditional settings, with each room styled differently.

Food menus change as regularly as every week, with seasonal dishes considered as well as pub classics such as fish and chips, pies, and a customer favourite – a chicken in a basket.

Most ingredients, including meat, bread and vegetables, are sourced locally just a few miles from the pub. This ongoing commitment to supporting the Cheshire community was noted in the awards.

Chester and District Standard:

Woody Barlow, director of Bear Inns, said: “We are over the moon to see The Swan recognised as ‘Pub of the Year’ – what a testament to our wonderful team, and also the customers who’ve supported us over the year. We hope everyone takes the opportunity to experience the unique spirit of our pub.”

The Marketing Cheshire tourism awards celebrate the fine tourism and hospitality businesses across the region.