We are so happy to be back and doing what we love. Although restrictions have lifted in England, we are still wearing masks as an extra precaution. We encourage guests to wear masks whilst moving about the building too, however it is discretionary. Thank you for your understanding, and your support in these times.
New for summer 2021. Inspired by the beauty and lyricism of Shakespeare's great romantic tragedy, our pastry chefs have created a beautiful afternoon tea that combines Italian specialties with traditional English tea time treats and interactive cocktails. Our playful selection of classic cocktails and seasonal concoctions are the best on Bankside - if we do say so ourselves!
New for summer 2021. Inspired by the beauty and lyricism of Shakespeare's great romantic tragedy, our pastry chefs have created a beautiful afternoon tea that combines Italian specialties with traditional English tea time treats and interactive cocktails. Our playful selection of classic cocktails and seasonal concoctions are the best on Bankside - if we do say so ourselves!
Services
We opened our doors on London's Bankside in early 2007 and have looked after the Globe theatre's onsite bar, restaurant, caf, event spaces and tap houses ever since.
Our seasonal, modern British menus are inspired by and made with some of the best English produce from Borough Market and beyond, and with our enviable views of the River Thames and St Paul's Cathedral, we like to think that Swan at the Globe is the first act for any discerning visitor to the theatre.
Our seasonal, modern British menus are inspired by and made with some of the best English produce from Borough Market and beyond, and with our enviable views of the River Thames and St Paul's Cathedral, we like to think that Swan at the Globe is the first act for any discerning visitor to the theatre.
Let us present the characters of our play. Our professional, personable, fun team who take every measure to make sure you experience the warmth of our hospitality. A world away from the stereotypically terrifying head chef, Cedric runs his busy kitchen with calm authority and a side order of sports fanaticism.
It is important that our guest and our team are safe. We have been fully audited by Food Alert and our practices and risk assessments have been fully approved. We are taking part in London Cocktail Week and this year it is so big they've made it a whole month! Enjoy any of our classic cocktails for just 6 throughout October.
A good plate of food starts with good ingredients, and we get the best British ingredients we can lay our hands on from our select farmers, fishmongers, butchers and brewers. Our cooking is inspired by the seasons and our menus are driven by the produce that comes through our doors each day. When it comes to fruit and veg, Ted Dawson knows his apples from his oranges.
Don't just take our word for it, here you can find testimonials from past event clients and visitors to the bar and restaurant. This was our rearranged wedding date, and the team (especially Jaunita) were incredibly helpful in supporting us with all the changes.
Even 2 weeks before the wedding it wasn't clear what restrictions might still be in place, but the team were incredibly helpful and flexible helping us to rethink options and were very clear and calm throughout it all.The day itself was phenomenal. All the staff were so helpful and friendly and seemed genuinely happy for us which was so lovely.
Even 2 weeks before the wedding it wasn't clear what restrictions might still be in place, but the team were incredibly helpful and flexible helping us to rethink options and were very clear and calm throughout it all.The day itself was phenomenal. All the staff were so helpful and friendly and seemed genuinely happy for us which was so lovely.
Reviews (20)
Jason K.
Jan 26, 2022
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"Sit down and feed, and welcome to our table."
As You Like It, Act 2, Scene 7
Restaurants, cafés, and pubs frequented by tourists en masse are hardly ever beacons of gastronomic pilgrimage. There are exceptions, of course, but most are a view or have oodles of history which give the operators carte blanche to continue on their merry way of being just above the grade of "okay." Not "okay" enough to create the kind of online intel that might deter the leisurewear-clad tour parties, but enough to repel the picky likes of me. It's rare to stumble across a place
As You Like It, Act 2, Scene 7
Restaurants, cafés, and pubs frequented by tourists en masse are hardly ever beacons of gastronomic pilgrimage. There are exceptions, of course, but most are a view or have oodles of history which give the operators carte blanche to continue on their merry way of being just above the grade of "okay." Not "okay" enough to create the kind of online intel that might deter the leisurewear-clad tour parties, but enough to repel the picky likes of me. It's rare to stumble across a place
Nicola Penny
Jan 16, 2022
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Gus Murphy
Jan 15, 2022
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What a wonderful experience, went for dinner in the restaurant for my wife's birthday, staff were attentive and friendly. Food was exquisite, pork belly and venison were well worth visiting for. As a surprise, the staff provided birthday truffles with our coffee's. Very nice touch. Well worth a visit, if you're anywhere near the Swan, pop in, you won't be disappointed.
Tina Vale
Dec 09, 2021
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Wow. What can I say about this place? The location, the staff, the food, the drink - all of it was spot on perfect. We came for our team Christmas night, and lucky enough to have the private dining room. It was fabulous. We didn't need to ask for a thing, the staff were so attentive. I would definitely be back.
Farah Z.
Nov 22, 2021
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We were looking for a good Sunday lunch and certainly found it here. It's nice to have a Sunday roast that hasn't been cremated or the veggies deep fried . The sides were very generous portions and we kept asking for more sides , more gravy etc and the staff kept bringing it. Beautiful views of the river and a genteel clientele round this off as a perfect Sunday lunch spot. We went at 12.30 and it wasn't too busy. It's expensive for a Sunday roast priced around £29-£30 per dish . My husband enjoyed the IPA which was imported from the US.
Staff couldn't have been more
Staff couldn't have been more
Mike Hansbury
Oct 29, 2021
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Mike Day
Oct 25, 2021
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Bar snacks are delicious in a curious sort of way. Sausage roll is a slice off a giant length, like a swiss roll. The pulled pork brioche was also exciting as I thought the Gherkin was a pepper. The atmosphere and view are unique with antique furniture and the river. "Dottie" was a charm and our service was impeccable. Brilliant finish to the Globe Tour.
Sophia Howard- Beauty In A. Backpack
Oct 22, 2021
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Paul Newnham
Aug 27, 2021
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Had high expectations as beautiful space and menu and reviews lead you to expect more. I went for Sunday roast and wont do that again. It was poorly platted with very little gravy very little flavor. I had to ask twice if it came with other veg. When they brought some it was very roughly steamed carrots broccoli and cauliflower. If you can look for another option that has more care put into the meal.
Helena Bourmault
Aug 15, 2021
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Email enquiries were not responded to. Finally managed to reserve a table for two at 14:00 but then needed to wait for 15 minutes to be seated while witnessing the two staff arguing about why the table had not yet already been set up which got me a little frustrated as I failed to see how it could take that long just to get a table set up. In spite of that bit of drama, the nice window table with a beautiful view of St Paul's enhanced the Romeo & Juliet Afternoon Tea experience.
Salmon sandwich was good but nothing extraordinary. Scrumptious Chicken Brioche Bun, Egg Mayonnaise Lemon Scented Bread
Salmon sandwich was good but nothing extraordinary. Scrumptious Chicken Brioche Bun, Egg Mayonnaise Lemon Scented Bread
Anya Pramayudyani
Jul 30, 2021
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Very limited, unimaginative menu. Disjointed service between downstairs and upstairs.
Update: Reply to Owner comment -----
Hi Benoit,
Thank you for taking the time to reply and explaining the concept of British venues.
Being British - I am familiar with British restaurants that use local and fresh produce to build a creative menu.
We tried to order from your bar menu which had more options, however this was not allowed. We also tried to order the set menu - but one person on the table wanted a la carte - and this was also not allowed.
I think if there was more flexibility then we would have
Update: Reply to Owner comment -----
Hi Benoit,
Thank you for taking the time to reply and explaining the concept of British venues.
Being British - I am familiar with British restaurants that use local and fresh produce to build a creative menu.
We tried to order from your bar menu which had more options, however this was not allowed. We also tried to order the set menu - but one person on the table wanted a la carte - and this was also not allowed.
I think if there was more flexibility then we would have
Clara W.
Jun 11, 2021
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I enjoyed "A Midsummer Night's Dream Afternoon Tea" prior to watching "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at Shakespeare's Globe. I loved the proximity to Shakespeare's Globe, and the attention to detail on the menu for the afternoon tea (which was set up so that each item was related to the play). I was seated by open windows, which allowed for a nice breeze. The staff was friendly, and the restrooms were clean. The only thing I would improve upon would be the sandwiches which were included in the afternoon tea, which I didn't really care for. However, it was
Paula Siemek
Jun 08, 2021
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The service was great and the food was tasty too! We booked just because it had river view, but will be going back for sure! It’s a little pricey, but they serve seasonal dishes and use locally sourced produce which is always good to see! The vegetarian section could use some expansion and I don’t think there were any vegan dishes on the menu.
Donia A.
Jun 17, 2020
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I have had afternoon tea at quite a few places, including a couple in London, and the Swan's was by far my favorite!
The atmosphere is perfect, elegant but not too snobby. The view of the Thames is beautiful. The theming for the afternoon tea is on point (A Midsummer Night's Dream), all the way down yo the plates and the teacups and saucers - side note: those plates were so beautiful I had to ask if they are sold at the shop, which wasn't the case.
I got the regular afternoon tea, and every single item was delicious and the set overall was nicely balanced. They do also offer a Gentleman
The atmosphere is perfect, elegant but not too snobby. The view of the Thames is beautiful. The theming for the afternoon tea is on point (A Midsummer Night's Dream), all the way down yo the plates and the teacups and saucers - side note: those plates were so beautiful I had to ask if they are sold at the shop, which wasn't the case.
I got the regular afternoon tea, and every single item was delicious and the set overall was nicely balanced. They do also offer a Gentleman
Tracey A.
Oct 12, 2019
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If it's Saturday in Brazil you must eat Feijoida.
If it's Sunday in the UK you must eat Sunday Roast.
It might be a marketing gimmick, designed to get folks into restaurants on Sunday, but I couldn't help notice all of the special "Sunday Roast" menus I kept encountering. Sure, twist my arm, I'll have a Sunday Roast.
But where?
A recent article in the European Standard (ES) listed "The Best Sunday Roasts in London" and though they were listed in no particular order I made things easy, opting for the first one on their list: The Swan at Shakespeare
If it's Sunday in the UK you must eat Sunday Roast.
It might be a marketing gimmick, designed to get folks into restaurants on Sunday, but I couldn't help notice all of the special "Sunday Roast" menus I kept encountering. Sure, twist my arm, I'll have a Sunday Roast.
But where?
A recent article in the European Standard (ES) listed "The Best Sunday Roasts in London" and though they were listed in no particular order I made things easy, opting for the first one on their list: The Swan at Shakespeare
Trixie N.
Sep 22, 2019
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Located just outside the Shakespeare Globe Theater with a view of the Thames, Swan is quite a lovely place for a spot of tea or a bit of a bite. I came in to do both!
I had just finished my tour of the Shakespeare Globe Theater which I highly recommend (see my review). I was just a little hungry and knew that I had quite a walking day ahead so I decided on something light. I ordered the Garden Vegetable Frites and fresh mint tea. The nibbles I decided on were very good. There was an assortment of golden fried seasonal vegetables and a tangy saffron & garlic mayonnaise to dip. It was quite
I had just finished my tour of the Shakespeare Globe Theater which I highly recommend (see my review). I was just a little hungry and knew that I had quite a walking day ahead so I decided on something light. I ordered the Garden Vegetable Frites and fresh mint tea. The nibbles I decided on were very good. There was an assortment of golden fried seasonal vegetables and a tangy saffron & garlic mayonnaise to dip. It was quite
Kerri Y.
Jul 11, 2019
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Swan gets all the stars in my book! This was probably the best dinner I had while in London. From the classy decor to the beautiful views and excellent food, this was an excellent dining experience and it truly was an experience. The service was wonderful and the food was beautifully presented.
We made reservations ahead of time as were were going to a show at the Globe and wanted to ensure we had enough time. It looked the the vibe and atmosphere were a bit different between the bar area/first floor versus upstairs. Upstairs, where we were seated, seemed nicer, less chaotic with amazing views
We made reservations ahead of time as were were going to a show at the Globe and wanted to ensure we had enough time. It looked the the vibe and atmosphere were a bit different between the bar area/first floor versus upstairs. Upstairs, where we were seated, seemed nicer, less chaotic with amazing views
Angela L.
Jun 13, 2019
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For me, experienced once sufficed.
Loved their decor overall and especially the serving sets-absolutely cute and fun!
The food was good. Nothing stood out from my memories afterwards. Mostly because I was busy exploring my surrounding and individual plate, cup, tea pot.....on our table of four people and had a very enjoyable time!
Great experience which one should give it a try at least once!
Loved their decor overall and especially the serving sets-absolutely cute and fun!
The food was good. Nothing stood out from my memories afterwards. Mostly because I was busy exploring my surrounding and individual plate, cup, tea pot.....on our table of four people and had a very enjoyable time!
Great experience which one should give it a try at least once!
Darya S.
Mar 31, 2019
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After walking around the Globe, I lost all willpower and decided to check out Swan for my first official fish and chips meal in London. Call me cliche, but it's like Shakespeare says - a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do. The place is less like a bar and more like a trendy diner. I loved the long communal tables in the middle of the space, and that's where I sat. It also allowed for the opportunity to meet strangers sitting next to you!
I shared the fish and chips and had a tea. The fish was tender, super fried, and a pretty big portion, and comes with pea mash, which
I shared the fish and chips and had a tea. The fish was tender, super fried, and a pretty big portion, and comes with pea mash, which
Justin K.
Oct 13, 2018
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Had such an amazing dining experience here! Got to have some afternoon tea with friends.
While visiting London, we all knew we needed to have afternoon tea. The places we looked at were all booked in advance, unfortunately. And after attempting a different location and getting rejected since they were fully booked, we happened across Swan. They too were fully booked as well, but the hostess immediately attempted to find us a table despite this fact. And after a few minutes, she came back with a spot for us! So A+ customer service already!!
The bottom plate was definitely my favorite of course
While visiting London, we all knew we needed to have afternoon tea. The places we looked at were all booked in advance, unfortunately. And after attempting a different location and getting rejected since they were fully booked, we happened across Swan. They too were fully booked as well, but the hostess immediately attempted to find us a table despite this fact. And after a few minutes, she came back with a spot for us! So A+ customer service already!!
The bottom plate was definitely my favorite of course
