A tale of two Swans: uncovering the lost pubs of West Street

Here’s the Swan Inn, that closed around 1908, and was located on the corner of Old Swan Yard.

Further up the road is the Old Swan Ale House, which pre-dated this and ceased trading by 1867.


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The Old Swan Inn

Whether they were trading at the same time is unclear. Both buildings still exist, though altered.

The Swan InnThe Old Swan Inn

It’s common for places in England to have several pubs with similar names.

It’s unknown exactly where The Swan name originates, but could be a royal connection to Henry VIIIs 4th wife, Anne of Cleves – it may also be connected to business transactions.

In Carshalton, with all its water – it could simply relate to lots of actual swans being nearby.

Out of interest here’s a list of the Top 10 most common pub names in the UK, and the amount of pubs. The Swan is at number 6.

  1. Red Lion – 548
  2. Crown – 491
  3. Royal Oak – 426
  4. White Hart – 314
  5. Plough – 293
  6. Swan – 287
  7. Railway – 285
  8. White Horse – 281
  9. Kings Arms – 243
  10. Ship – 241

Map copyright www.lazystuff.com and read lots more about the recently discovered Old Swan Ale House. Old image @suttonheritage. Research and pics @secret.carshalton

If you found this interesting, please leave feedback below.


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Richard Graves
Richard Graves
4 years ago

My Great Grandad was Thomas Preen and he had his business in Swan Yard and drank in the Swan Inn.

Rex
Rex
4 years ago

Really interesting pics etc

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