The Swan, Hyde Park: Historic London Coaching Inn and Contemporary Pub
Historic coaching inn turned vibrant pub overlooking Hyde Park, blending centuries of London heritage with classic British hospitality.
The Swan, located at 66 Bayswater Road, London, is a historic pub dating back to the early 18th century, reputedly serving as a coaching inn and the final stop for victims heading to Tyburn Gallows. Overlooking Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, it combines rich history with a welcoming atmosphere, offering classic British cuisine, a wide selection of ales and gins, live music, and a spacious terrace for relaxing in a quintessential London setting.
A brief summary to The Swan, Hyde Park
- 66 Bayswater Rd, London, W2 3PH, GB
- +442072625204
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-11 pm
- Thursday 9 am-11 pm
- Friday 9 am-11 pm
- Saturday 9 am-11 pm
- Sunday 9 am-11 pm
Local tips
- Visit the outdoor terrace to enjoy views of Hyde Park while sampling one of the many gins or ales on offer.
- Try traditional British dishes like braised Scottish beef or truffle mac and cheese for a hearty meal.
- Check the schedule for live music events to experience the pub’s lively atmosphere.
- Consider booking a private room or the garden terrace for special occasions or group events.
- Learn about the pub’s historic ties to Tyburn Gallows and the infamous highwayman Claude Duval while you enjoy your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Outdoor Seating
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Central Line to Lancaster Gate station, approximately a 10-minute walk from the pub. The station offers frequent service with trains every 2-5 minutes during peak times. No additional fare beyond standard London travel zones applies.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve Bayswater Road, including routes 94 and 148. Travel times vary between 15-25 minutes from central London locations. Buses run regularly throughout the day, but check schedules for evening service.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London typically takes 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Prices range from £10 to £20. This option offers door-to-door convenience, especially for groups or evening visits.
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Walking
If you’re staying nearby, a pleasant 20-30 minute walk through Hyde Park or along Bayswater Road provides scenic views and easy access. The route is flat and suitable for most visitors, including those with limited mobility.
The Swan, Hyde Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Swan, Hyde Park
Origins and Historical Significance
The Swan at Hyde Park traces its roots back to 1721, with some evidence suggesting it functioned as an inn even earlier. Originally a coaching inn, it served travelers on the road to London and holds a grim yet fascinating place in history as the reputed last drinking place for victims of the Tyburn Gallows, now known as Marble Arch. The notorious highwayman Claude Duval is said to have had his final drink here before his execution in 1670. Local lore suggests that expressions like “one for the road” and “on the wagon” may have originated at The Swan, referencing the final drinks given to prisoners before their journey to the gallows.Architectural and Interior Character
The Swan is a Grade II listed building, lovingly refurbished and reopened in 2018 by Fuller's Brewery. Its interior design draws inspiration from the adjacent Hyde Park, with the ground floor divided into three sections, each themed around aspects of the park. This thoughtful design creates a warm and inviting environment that blends historic charm with modern comfort. The pub features a traditional English pub ambiance with a cosy interior and a spacious outside terrace that evokes a beer garden feel, perfect for sun-soaked drinks.Culinary Offerings and Drinks Selection
The Swan honours classic British cuisine with a menu featuring hearty dishes such as braised Scottish beef feather blade and truffle mac and cheese. The pub is well-stocked with some of London's finest lagers, ales, and wines, complemented by an impressive selection of around 30 different gins. Whether you're seeking a casual lunch, an evening meal, or just a drink, The Swan offers a quality gastropub experience with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available.Events, Atmosphere, and Community Role
Beyond food and drink, The Swan hosts live music events that add to its lively yet relaxed atmosphere. It offers private hire rooms and a garden terrace ideal for celebrations ranging from Christmas parties to weddings and corporate events. The pub’s location opposite Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens makes it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, providing a quintessential London pub experience with a rich narrative and a vibrant social scene.Location and Accessibility
Situated in the Paddington area of London, The Swan is easily accessible from Lancaster Gate Tube station. Its proximity to Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens places it in a prime location for visitors exploring these iconic green spaces. The pub operates daily from morning until late evening, welcoming guests for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks throughout the week.Legacy and Cultural Importance
The Swan stands as a living piece of London's history, blending centuries-old tales with contemporary hospitality. Its connection to historic events and figures, combined with its enduring role as a community gathering place, makes it a landmark that captures the spirit of London’s past and present. Visitors can enjoy not only excellent food and drink but also a tangible link to the stories and traditions that shaped this part of the city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Edward Jenner Memorial
0.2 km
Victorian marble tribute to the physician who conquered smallpox and invented vaccination.
Sussex Gardens
0.2 km
A serene Victorian garden oasis nestled in the historic Tyburnia district, blending lush greenery with elegant architecture in central London.
Speke Monument
0.3 km
A Victorian obelisk in Kensington Gardens honouring explorer John Hanning Speke, who identified Lake Victoria as the source of the Nile.
The Old Police House
0.9 km
Historic police station and visitor hub nestled in the heart of Hyde Park, blending heritage with the tranquility of London’s iconic green space.
Norwegian War Memorial
0.9 km
A solemn granite tribute in Hyde Park honoring British-Norwegian friendship and support during World War II.
The Paddington Partnership
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant community and rich culture of Paddington through the initiatives of The Paddington Partnership, a hub for local engagement and development.
Space Apart Hotel
1.0 km
Modern serviced apartments in historic Kensington Gardens Square, offering stylish comfort and easy access to London’s top attractions.
Speakers' Corner
1.3 km
Historic Speakers' Corner in Hyde Park: London's iconic open-air forum for free speech and public debate since the 19th century.
Kensington War Memorial
1.4 km
A solemn gothic cross memorial honoring Kensington’s fallen soldiers, set beside the historic St Mary Abbots Church.
George Orwell Plaque
1.5 km
A literary landmark on vibrant Portobello Road celebrating George Orwell’s enduring legacy in London’s cultural heart.
Celebrity's Secret Door
1.7 km
Explore the enchanting Celebrity's Secret Door on Portobello Road, a hidden gem in London that connects you to the city's vibrant celebrity culture.
Baker St
1.7 km
Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Baker Street, home to Sherlock Holmes and a hub of London’s iconic attractions.
Former EMI House (Beatles album cover photo)
1.7 km
Where The Beatles' iconic Please Please Me album cover was photographed in 1963.
Roosevelt Memorial
1.8 km
A dignified tribute to Franklin D. Roosevelt in the historic heart of London’s Grosvenor Square, symbolizing enduring Anglo-American friendship.
38 Grosvenor Sq
1.8 km
Historic mid-19th-century Italianate residence in London’s prestigious Grosvenor Square, a symbol of aristocratic and diplomatic heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Italian Gardens
0.1 km
Explore the stunning Italian Gardens in Kensington Gardens, a serene escape in London featuring classical design, beautiful fountains, and vibrant floral displays.
Lancaster Gate
0.2 km
Elegant Victorian terraces bordering Hyde Park, offering tranquil sophistication and superb access to London’s cultural heart.
Kensington Gardens
0.5 km
Explore Kensington Gardens, a royal London oasis blending historic grandeur, iconic landmarks, and family-friendly adventures across 265 acres of green space.
Paddington Bear Statue
0.6 km
Meet Paddington Bear at his iconic London station home, a bronze tribute to kindness, migration, and British cultural heritage.
Queen Caroline's Temple
0.6 km
An elegant 18th-century neoclassical summerhouse in Kensington Gardens, celebrating Queen Caroline’s artistic and landscape legacy.
2 Eastbourne Terrace
0.7 km
Prime Paddington office space with flexible work environments, top amenities, and unbeatable transport links opposite Paddington Station.
QUEENS skate dine bowl
0.7 km
London’s oldest year-round ice rink, bowling lanes, and vibrant dining combine for nonstop fun at QUEENS Skate Dine Bowl on Queensway.
Notting Hill Bike tours
0.8 km
Discover London’s iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods on a safe, fun, and engaging bike tour through Notting Hill and beyond.
Round Pond
0.8 km
Historic ornamental lake in Kensington Gardens, home to model yachts and diverse wildlife, set against the iconic backdrop of Kensington Palace.
Serpentine Gallery
0.8 km
Discover cutting-edge contemporary art and architecture in the heart of Kensington Gardens, London’s iconic cultural oasis.
Paddington Basin
0.8 km
A modern canal basin in west London where historic waterways meet sleek architecture, waterside dining, and a relaxed urban vibe.
Diana Memorial Playground
0.8 km
A magical, inclusive Peter Pan-themed playground in Kensington Gardens, offering imaginative play and adventure for children of all abilities.
Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain
0.8 km
A serene, interactive water memorial in Hyde Park honoring Princess Diana’s life and legacy through innovative design and tranquil reflection.
The Fan Bridge
0.9 km
A captivating kinetic footbridge at Paddington Basin that opens like a Japanese fan, blending engineering brilliance with artistic design.
Queen Victoria Statue
0.9 km
A majestic marble statue of Queen Victoria by her daughter, marking the birthplace and childhood home of one of Britain’s most iconic monarchs.
Essential places to dine
London Shell Co. - The Prince Regent
0.9 km
Savor exceptional British seafood aboard a charming canal barge cruising the historic Regent's Canal in Central London.
Cocotte Notting Hill
1.2 km
Experience authentic French rotisserie chicken in a cozy, farm-to-table setting on vibrant Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill.
The Shed
1.2 km
A rustic, family-run gem in Notting Hill serving sustainable, farm-to-table British cuisine with a warm, unpretentious atmosphere.
Spaghetti House Italian Restaurant Kensington High Street
1.3 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm await at Spaghetti House on Kensington High Street, perfect for casual dining in central London.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington
1.3 km
Cozy Italian dining in the heart of Kensington with classic pasta, pizza, and family-friendly options in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Zuaya London
1.4 km
Discover modern Latin American cuisine with vibrant flavors, stylish ambiance, and exceptional cocktails in the heart of Kensington.
Alexandrie Restaurant
1.4 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors and elegant dining in the heart of Kensington with Alexandrie’s refined Mediterranean cuisine.
Granger and Co. Notting Hill
1.5 km
Experience vibrant Australian flavors all day in a sunny, welcoming setting at Granger and Co. Notting Hill on Westbourne Grove.
Grato
1.5 km
Cozy Italian dining with handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the tranquil heart of Kensington Square, London.
Dishoom Kensington
1.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavours and Art Deco charm of Bombay’s iconic Irani cafés at Dishoom Kensington, London’s stylish Indian dining destination.
Akira Restaurant at Japan House London
1.5 km
Experience authentic Japanese elegance and exquisite omakase dining in the heart of Kensington at Akira Restaurant, Japan House London.
The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
1.5 km
Classic British brasserie charm meets lively Kensington atmosphere in this elegant all-day dining hotspot on High Street.
104 Restaurant by Richard Wilkins
1.5 km
A refined modern French gem in Notting Hill offering intimate dining, exquisite tasting menus, and impeccable service in a cozy setting.
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
1.6 km
Experience two Michelin-starred historic British cuisine reimagined with modern artistry at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in the heart of Knightsbridge.
Mercato Mayfair
1.7 km
Experience diverse global street food in a stunning restored church at the heart of London’s Mayfair district.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The London Shop
0.7 km
Friendly and affordable gift shop in vibrant Queensway, London, open daily with a welcoming atmosphere and great souvenirs.
Kensington Palace Shop
1.0 km
Discover regal treasures at Kensington Palace Shop: fine china, jewellery, and exclusive souvenirs inspired by centuries of royal elegance in London's premier palace grounds.
Urban Outfitters
1.3 km
Trendy threads and eclectic home vibes on London's iconic Kensington High Street – Urban Outfitters delivers boho-chic shopping with a creative edge.
Good
1.4 km
Discover timeless designer vintage at Good, where Kensington Church Street's charm meets sustainable high fashion in a curated second-hand paradise.
Church Street Market
1.4 km
A bustling multicultural market in Westminster offering fresh produce, antiques, street food, and vibrant local culture from Monday to Saturday.
Notting hill store
1.4 km
Explore Notting Hill's local convenience store, your one-stop shop for groceries, unique souvenirs, and reliable luggage storage.
London Souvenir Kensington
1.4 km
Kensington High Street's go-to for authentic London souvenirs: red buses, royal trinkets, and Union Jack delights in a shopper's paradise.
The gift store
1.4 km
Discover quirky handmade crafts and Notting Hill treasures at this vibrant Pembridge Road gem, where every shelf holds a unique story from London's creative heart.
Appletree boutique
1.4 km
A small Notting Hill boutique specialising in retro‑inspired prints, colourful womenswear and standout accessories for playful, individual styling.
Jigsaw
1.4 km
Refined British womenswear on Kensington High Street, where timeless tailoring meets contemporary elegance in a stylish boutique haven.
Science Museum Shop
1.6 km
Ignite curiosity with science-inspired gifts, gadgets, and toys at this inventive shop inside London's Science Museum – perfect for all ages.
RETRO GIFTS RETAIL
1.6 km
Discover nostalgic treasures at Retro Gifts Retail on Portobello Road—retro charms, quirky novelties, and market magic in Notting Hill's vibrant heart.
Portobello Gifts Shop London
1.6 km
Retro souvenirs and nostalgic trinkets on Notting Hill's iconic Portobello Road—a treasure hunt for affordable London mementos amid market vibrancy.
Harrods
1.7 km
Step into the world’s most iconic luxury department store, where shopping, dining, and history blend in the heart of Knightsbridge.
Selfridges
1.7 km
Experience luxury, innovation, and culture at London’s iconic Selfridges department store on Oxford Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Victoria, Paddington
0.5 km
Step into The Victoria, Paddington, a historic Victorian pub blending timeless charm, rich heritage, and refined British dining in a warm, inviting setting.
The Dickens Tavern
0.5 km
Classic British pub with hearty fare and ales, nestled in Paddington’s vibrant heart near London Paddington Station.
Piano Kensington
1.3 km
Live piano requests, cocktails and casual late-night bites in the Royal Garden Hotel — a music-led, relaxed Kensington night out.
Stables Bar
1.3 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail haven in a former stable, blending equestrian heritage with inventive mixology and cosy conservatory vibes opposite lush gardens.
Bar 190
1.3 km
Experience London’s legendary rock ’n’ roll cocktail bar with classic Victorian charm and expertly crafted drinks at Bar 190.
AMARO BAR - London
1.3 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail bar blending Savoy mastery with inventive twists, vintage rarities, and intimate speakeasy charm on High Street.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington
1.3 km
London's floral-festooned pub icon: Churchill memorabilia, pioneering Thai eats, and blooming facades since 1750 in vibrant Kensington.
The Henderson Bar & Kitchen
1.4 km
Notting Hill's carnival-inspired bar serving twisted British classics from breakfast to cocktails on a sunny terrace—honoring Russ Henderson's legacy.
High Spirit Cocktail Bar
1.4 km
A friendly, compact cocktail bar on Kensington High Street serving well-made classics and creative seasonal drinks in a warm, music-led setting.
Prince of Wales
1.4 km
A cosy Kensington pub of warm wood, classic pints and a surprising Thai menu tucked behind a Victorian façade.
The Sun In Splendour
1.4 km
Historic Notting Hill pub with yellow charm, hearty fare, craft pours, and a secret garden haven on bustling Portobello Road.
The Churchill Bar & Terrace
1.4 km
Sophisticated cocktail bar and terrace in central London, blending classic British charm with modern elegance and a vibrant social scene.
The Builders Arms
1.6 km
A classic Kensington pub with cosy period character, modern British comfort food and a lively, neighbourhood atmosphere.
The Walmer Castle
1.6 km
Historic Notting Hill pub revived with cosy fires, seasonal British dishes, and a stellar drinks list – a true neighbourhood gem since 1845.
Purl London
1.7 km
Discover Purl London, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar in Marylebone offering expertly crafted drinks in a cozy vintage setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
0.1 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Notting Hill Arts Club
1.2 km
West London's sweaty basement cradle of music legends since '97—coffee by day, live gigs and club nights till 2am in an intimate den of funk, jazz, and raw talent.
Metric
1.3 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
The Globe
1.7 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
The Duke of Wellington
2.0 km
Historic Young's pub on Portobello Road: Victorian screens, market views, British roasts, and Notting Hill legends in every pint.
Dolce Night Club , London
2.0 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
Electric House
2.0 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at Electric House, a chic social club in Notting Hill, London, blending style, comfort, and culinary delights.
B London
2.1 km
Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
Subteranian
2.2 km
A compact underground club on Acklam Road delivering dense, DJ-led electronic nights with an intimate, bass-heavy atmosphere.
Carwash Nightclub
2.2 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
LUXX CLUB LONDON
2.4 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Tabu London
2.5 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
Ricco London
2.7 km
A plush, performance‑led lounge in Kensington Olympia where cocktails, Mediterranean sharers and cabaret create theatrical late‑night nights.
The Cuckoo Club
2.7 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
The Scotch of St James
2.8 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Lively
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
