Eating
A fresh start at The Swan, Salford
The Swan at Salford has reopened its doors after being given a bright, new look and an all-new menu of delicious things to eat and drink, making it the place to be for great times, whatever the occasion.
The popular village gastropub has had a complete transformation, with a vibrant new design and colour palette, a chic new bar and a gorgeous eatery creating a wealth of interesting spaces to meet, eat, drink and socialise. Its glorious garden has also been given a fresh look for summer, with plenty of comfortable spots for lingering over a plate of something delicious to eat with a glass or two of something chilled.
Everything on the new menu is cooked fresh using the best quality, ethically sourced ingredients from top suppliers, carefully selected by the pub’s chefs. Steaks and free-range chickens are from Aubrey Allen, butcher to the Royal household.
The pub’s free-range pork is Jimmy Butler’s, fish from Brixham arrives daily from the day boats that caught it and every scoop of ice cream is from artisan producers Salcombe Dairy. Prepared with skill and care, every plate is as good as the last.
Rigatoni Pasta, Peas, Leeks, Mint & Gran Moravia – Everything on the new menu is cooked fresh using the best quality
A fresh start at The Swan, Salford. Sweetcorn & Halloumi Fritters, Guacamole & Tomato Salsa – Everything on the new menu is cooked fresh using the best quality.
Lobster Mac ‘n’ Cheese, Mixed Leaf Salad – A fresh start at The Swan, Salford
All of this good stuff can be enjoyed anywhere in the new-look Swan. Inside, the bar has taken on a modern feel, with bar-height tables and stools in bold patterned reds and oranges, soft grey walls with accents of teal and a striking geometric black and white tiled floor. The back bar is sleeker, with dark brushed steel racking softened by leafy print wallpaper showing some of the pub’s good wines and spirits to good effect.
Deep banks of upholstered seats in rich velvet, linen and leather, dotted with jewel-coloured cushions, create a layered look in the eatery, with different textures and fabrics oozing warmth and style. On the walls are floating shelves filled with quirky prints, plates and bowls. The whole space is beautifully lit, with cut glass shades and uplighters creating the perfect ambience.
Mindful of the planet, the pub has been careful to re-use and restore wherever it can, giving all its existing chairs and tables a renewed lease of life with fresh upholstery and a lick of paint. All of these pieces were built to last by The Swan’s expert Rochdale-based furniture supplier, so with their new appearance, it will be easy to fall in love with them all over again.
Peer through the picture window into the kitchen and watch the chefs busy at work preparing the new through-the-day menu which features a wide choice of sharing plates, salads, mains and desserts. With everything made fresh from scratch, there’s lots to share, graze on or tuck into, whether it’s drinks and nibbles with friends, an after-work gathering or a celebration dinner.
Pick a sharing plate and enjoy creamy Petit Lucques Olives, perfect with a glass of bubbles before dinner, or a selection of mouth-watering Dorset salami. There’s also Foccacia Romana with air-dried ham, rocket and pesto and a Vegetarian Board with spinach pakoras and mint yoghurt, buffalo cauliflower and chipotle with roasted peppers, courgette and feta salad.
Lobster Mac ‘n’ Cheese, Mixed Leaf Salad – A fresh start at The Swan, Salford
For an informal bite, enjoy a free-range chicken Milanese with garlic, sage and lemon with skinny fries or green salad; a rich duck Ragù with egg pappardelle and crispy duck crumb or an indulgent lobster mac n cheese with a mixed leaf salad.
New for summer 2019 is a range of classic Neapolitan stonebaked pizzas, made with artisan sourdough for the base, fantastic quality Italian tomatoes and soft Fior De Latte Mozzarella. Choose from a simple but delicious Margherita, a flavoursome Giardiniera with artichokes, mushrooms, red onion and black olives or a spicy Caldo with Nduja, Dorset salami and Roquito red peppers.
To celebrate the pub’s new look, The Swan has launched some really amazing offers making it better than ever before to try it out, starting with the chance to dine at the pub and enjoy £20 off your bill any time before 1st August1. To enjoy this great offer, go to the website to sign up at www.swansalford.co.uk/sign-up/.
There are lots of other reasons to stop by and see the pub’s new look, including a tempting two for one pizza offer every Monday to Thursday from 3pm to 7pm; 25% off all food (except pizza) on Mondays to Thursdays from 5pm to 7pm and a super value Weekday Fixed Price Lunch with two courses for £13.75 or three for £16.50, Monday to Friday from 12pm to 6pm.
At the bar, there are Two for One Grand Gins all day on Thursdays and Prosecco for £15 a bottle all day on Fridays, the ideal way to start the weekend. Pop in early and there’s also £1 off the price of a pint of beer or a glass of wine or fizz, any Monday to Friday from 5pm to 7pm.
Find out more and sign up for the latest news by visiting www.swansalford.co.uk/
“We are thrilled with our new look and can’t wait to share it with our guests, both those who know us already and those yet to try us out,” says The Swan’s general manager Lianne Sargent. “The pub’s bright, fresh and full of personality, with superb food and drink that are perfect whether you want to raise a glass with us on a Friday night, pop in for a pizza or book for a special dinner. Join us, whatever the occasion, and share some great company over a glass or two or a bite to eat. Make sure you find a reason to stop by and say hello soon,” she says.
The Swan’s only a short drive from Milton Keynes and just one mile from junction 13 of the M1. The Swan, 2 Wavendon Road, Salford, Milton Keynes, MK17 8BD Tel: 01908 281008. www.swansalford.co.uk Opening hours are from 10am -11pm on Monday to Thursday, from 10am to midnight on Friday and Saturday and from 10am to 11pm on Sunday.
Milton Keynes’ much-anticipated landmark visitor destination, Unity Place, has now opened all of its remaining facilities and is officially fully open. Located directly opposite MK Station Square, Unity Place is more than just a venue; it’s a vibrant community hub set to redefine the urban experience in the heart of the city.
A Culinary Haven: Diverse Dining Options Under One Roof
Unity Place offers an unparalleled shopping and dining experience. At the heart of this destination is the Urban Food Market, featuring an eclectic mix of street food vendors that cater to every palate. Here, you can indulge in rustic Italian delights at Raffaele Pizza, savor Taiwanese rice boxes and bao buns from Bian Dang, or enjoy the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine at Cantina Carnitas. For those seeking an elevated dining experience, Dipna Anand’s Kitchen & Bar is a must-visit. Celebrity chef Dipna Anand brings authentic Punjabi and South Indian cuisine to your table, with signature dishes such as tandoori lamb chops, paneer tikka, and lamb shish.
Convenience Meets Quality: Shopping Essentials at Unity Place
Unity Place isn’t just about food. It’s designed to cater to all your needs under one roof. The Corner Store offers everyday essentials, while Baker’s Room tempts with freshly made bread, pastries, cakes, and coffee. Even grooming is covered, thanks to the high-end barbershop ROK, perfect for a stylish fresh trim.
Work and Play at Unity Place: The Ideal Balance
For those blending work and leisure, Unity Place provides an innovative solution. Partnering with co-working provider x+why, it offers flexible working spaces perfect for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers. The ground floor houses the public Santander Work Café, which includes co-working desks, bookable meeting rooms, and a branch for everyday banking needs. With over 60,000 sq. ft. of contemporary office space, Unity Place ensures a productive environment with breakout spaces, private offices, enterprise suites, and mission rooms.
Sip and Savor at Unity Place: A Destination for Drinks
Unity Place is also a haven for those who enjoy a good drink. The rooftop bar, Unity Sky Lounge, offers stunning panoramic views of the city alongside a fantastic selection of food and beverages. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or starting your evening, this is the perfect spot to relax. Additionally, Dipna Anand’s bar provides a cozy atmosphere for a pre-dinner cocktail or mocktail, while the fully stocked Unity Bar boasts an extensive drinks list to satisfy any preference.
Why Visit Unity Place?
Unity Place is more than just a visitor destination; it’s an experience. Here are a few reasons why you should make it your next stop:
- Variety: With a wide range of dining options, there’s something for everyone.
- Convenience: Everything you need, from food to shopping to workspaces, is available under one roof.
- Community: It’s a vibrant hub that fosters community and connection.
- Quality: High-end amenities ensure a premium experience.
- Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views from the rooftop bar.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Unity Place is set to become a cornerstone of Milton Keynes. Come and experience it for yourself – the future of urban living is here.
Deciding on a great Father’s Day experience can be challenging, but this year, why not treat Dad to an escape to the Hertfordshire countryside at Sopwell House? The hotel and spa are pulling out all the stops for Dad, from a sumptuous Sunday roast with beer pairings to a savoury afternoon tea.
Sunday Roast with Beer or Wine Flight
Elevate Dad’s Sunday roast with an optional craft beer from Tring Brewery. From a punchy Raven King IPA to Tring’s smooth Tea Kettle stout, savour every bite with a carefully selected beer to match each course. For those who aren’t as keen on beer, there is also a wine flight option available.
Start as you mean to go on with Spring shaved courgettes or spicy lamb croquettes, followed by the star of the show – a roast with your choice of chicken, beef, or pork, served with fluffy roasties, seasonal vegetables, Yorkshire puddings, and lashings of gravy. End on a sweet note with a choice of summery desserts – think Strawberry bakewell tart and Raspberry crème brûlée – plus an additional cheese course for those opting for the paired menu.
Price: £42 per person for Sunday lunch (£67 per adult including drinks pairing and cheese course).
Father’s Day Afternoon Tea
Adding a savoury twist to the quintessentially British pastime, treat Dad to an afternoon tea with a choice of bubbles or a pint of Pale Ale to complement the experience. Expect bites including quail scotch eggs and roast beef-filled mini-Yorkshire puddings, alongside sandwiches and freshly baked scones.
There is also a selection of sweet treats including a hazelnut praline and chocolate sable, and a coconut, yuzu, and lime macaron, all served with a glass of Taittinger Champagne or a pint of Tring Pale Four beer from the award-winning brewery. A punchy, West Coast IPA style beer, the Tring Pale Four beer is as at home with meats and fish as it is paired alongside sweet treats, making it the perfect accompaniment to Afternoon Tea!
Price: £57 per adult.
Available exclusively on Sunday 16th June, make your Father’s Day one to remember at Sopwell House, with bookings now available at www.sopwellhouse.co.uk.
Top 5 Father’s Day Gift Ideas
To complement your luxurious day out at Sopwell House, here are the top 5 Father’s Day gift ideas that will surely impress any dad:
- Personalised Gifts
- Engraved Wallet: A high-quality leather wallet with a personalised message or initials engraved.
- Custom Photo Book: A photo book filled with cherished memories, perfect for sentimental dads.
- Tech Gadgets
- Smart Home Devices: Smart speakers like the Amazon Echo or Google Nest Hub to help around the house.
- Noise-Cancelling Headphones: Great for dads who enjoy music, podcasts, or need some quiet time.
- Experience Gifts
- Driving Experience: A track day or driving experience with high-performance cars.
- Cooking Class: For foodie dads, a cooking class with a professional chef can be a memorable experience.
- Eating Out Experience
- Restaurant Voucher: A voucher for a meal at a top-rated restaurant or a local favourite.
- Afternoon Tea: A classic British experience, perfect for a relaxing afternoon with a variety of teas and delicious treats.
- Outdoor Gear
- Camping Equipment: High-quality tents, sleeping bags, or portable grills for adventurous dads.
- Garden Tools: For dads who love gardening, new tools or a garden gadget like a robot lawnmower.
Make this Father’s Day unforgettable with a delightful experience at Sopwell House and a thoughtful gift from our top picks!
Nestled within the historical elegance of Brocket Hall, the renowned Auberge du Lac has proudly announced a new chapter in its storied culinary journey, spearheaded by the illustrious Chef John Barber. Having reopened its doors in May 2023 following a three-year hiatus, the restaurant has been infused with a fresh vigour, artfully blending tradition with cutting-edge culinary innovations.
Chef John Barber
Chef John Barber: A Maestro in the Kitchen
Chef Barber’s illustrious career, inspired by his mother’s home cooking, began at UCB College of Food and has spanned the globe, from the prestigious kitchens of the Belfry Hotel to the exotic locales of Thailand and Paris. His tenure at London’s Bar Boulud and the opening of 14 Hills with the D&D Group has seasoned him with an unrivaled expertise, making his tenure at Auberge du Lac a herald of culinary excellence.
Lucy Hawkins: Sustainability at Its Core
The heart of Auberge du Lac’s culinary philosophy is its kitchen garden, tenderly curated by Lucy Hawkins. This garden is not merely a plot of land; it is the cradle of sustainability, employing no-dig methods that enrich local biodiversity and allow for the freshest ingredients to be used directly in the kitchen. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in this verdant sanctuary during the Garden Tour & Lunch events, connecting them intimately with the origins of their meals.
The Auberge Experience: A Symphony of Luxuries
Auberge du Lac doesn’t just stop at fine dining; it offers an immersive ‘Auberge Experience’ package. Priced at £420 per couple, this luxurious offering includes a cozy welcome with Champagne and chocolates, a seven-course tasting menu, an overnight stay in the stately Melbourne Lodge, and a full English breakfast at The Melbourne Club. Each of the lodge’s 16 luxury ensuite bedrooms offers a vista of the Hall, Broadwater Lake, and the golf course, making it an ideal retreat after a gourmet evening.
Access and Convenience
Just a stone’s throw from London, Auberge du Lac offers an escape into the countryside that’s both quick and easy. The journey from central London to the tranquility of Brocket Hall takes less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking a taste of the countryside without straying far from the city’s pulse.
A Forthcoming Review
Stay tuned for an in-depth review of Auberge du Lac, where we will delve deeper into the gastronomic delights and serene ambiance that make this destination a crown jewel of culinary and leisure escapades.
Embrace the opportunity to experience the pinnacle of fine dining and bespoke luxury at Auberge du Lac at Brocket Hall, where every visit promises to be more than just a meal—it’s a journey through the rich tapestry of history, taste, and lush landscapes.
