The Swettenham Arms

The Swettenham Arms is in an idyllic location, right next to the Lovell Quinta Aboretum. The pub even has its own lavender field, wafting soothing floral notes over outdoor drinkers. The Swettenham Arms itself is pretty idyllic too, dating from the 1500s. With all that history, it’s no surprise that it claims to be haunted.

However, a meal at The Swettenham Arms is no horror show. Food is generally British pub food done well with some Asian influences, too. Typical dishes might include seven spice tempura prawns or crab crostini to start, followed by dishes like beef and ale pie, Malaysian rendang chicken curry or the classic cheese and bacon burger. The Sunday lunch is hearty and the portions are generous.

There’s a big car park out the front, which might not sound like much of an attraction, but classic car evenings are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, as are motorbike meet-ups. As well as seasonal food and a good selection of drinks, you can enjoy the motor displays, take a stroll through the arboretum, and even (maybe) see the apparition of a ghostly nun. She’s probably heard the food is good and is calling in for some gammon, egg and chips.