The Swan Inn

Hilborough 52.57202900, 0.69502200 , Brandon Road (Show on Map)
8.4
Very Good


Please select your travel dates to see rates and availability
Check In
Check Out
1 room2 guests 1 room, 2 guests
Info
Summary of reviewsThe Swan Inn, nestled in the serene rural countryside, stands out as an ideal retreat for visitors seeking a picturesque, relaxing atmosphere. This inn is well-situated for exploring nearby attractions such as the North Norfolk coast, Thetford Forest and historical towns like Swaffham, Holt and Thetford. Despite minor mentions of morning noise and occasional dust, the inn’s beautiful surroundings and ease of access, coupled with good parking facilities, make it a strategic stopover and a charming destination for various celebrations and family gatherings.

Guests frequently commend the breakfast at The Swan Inn for its quality and value. The English Fry-up and buffet breakfast, featuring hearty and traditional cooked options, received particularly high praise. Though some desired earlier service and more variety, the overall sentiment remains highly favorable due to the delicious food, generous portions and friendly service.

Dining experiences at The Swan Inn are equally celebrated with guests consistently highlighting the excellent food quality and varied menu options, including gluten-free and vegan/vegetarian choices. The pub’s traditional fare, combined with a good selection of beers and ales, creates a satisfying dining environment. Despite occasional reports of delayed service, the overall satisfaction with the dining experience is significantly high, enhanced by the friendly and helpful staff.

The rooms at The Swan Inn, blending rustic charm with modern amenities, are generally well-received for their spaciousness and comfort. Guests appreciate the clean, well-appointed rooms and particularly enjoy the converted barn accommodations. Some minor issues, such as occasional dust and older appliances, were noted but did not overshadow the positive overall experience. The comfortable beds and beautiful views contribute to a restful stay, making the accommodations ideal for both short and extended visits.

Cleanliness is a strong point for The Swan Inn with many guests highlighting the meticulous upkeep of rooms and communal areas. While a few areas, such as certain bathrooms, were noted for needing updates, the overall impression remains positive thanks to the spotless conditions and the friendly, accommodating staff who enhance the welcoming atmosphere.

The staff at The Swan Inn are often described as extremely friendly, efficient and helpful, significantly contributing to the positive guest experiences. Their warm hospitality and readiness to accommodate guests’ needs ensure a pleasant and inviting stay.

Wi-fi connectivity varies throughout the inn with stronger signals reported in some parts of the main accommodations compared to weaker signals in the annex or barn areas. However, improvements to the wifi are reportedly underway, which should enhance connectivity soon.

Parking at The Swan Inn is abundant and well-organized, accommodating even larger vehicles and providing close access to accommodations. This ease of parking, coupled with it being free, adds to the overall convenience and positive experience for guests.

The Swan Inn is also praised for its exceptional dog-friendly features, making it a favored choice for travelers with pets. The inclusive atmosphere extends to family needs with thoughtful amenities available for toddlers as well. Guests appreciate the secure play area for pets and the staff’s accommodating nature, making it a welcoming environment for all types of travelers, including those with furry friends.

Overall, The Swan Inn stands out as a comfortable, strategically located retreat with excellent food, welcoming staff and accommodating services, making it an ideal choice for visitors exploring the Norfolk region or seeking a quiet escape in a beautiful countryside setting.
Show more
Categories
Dog Friendly Guest House
This traditional English inn is located in the heart of rural Norfolk. Dogs are accepted at an extra charge and upon previous notification. Mind that only clean, non-aggressive dogs without fleas are allowed and must only use the designated areas.
Do you accept dogs in all rooms?
Yes
Is there an extra charge?
Yes
Should the dog owner notify you before checking in?
Yes, During the booking process
Show more...

Guest House for Honeymoon

Guest House with Parking

Cheap Guest House

Small Guest House

3-Star Guest House

Room Types
Double Room Benefits include a TV, tea and coffee making facilities, and an en suite bathroom with a hairdryer.

Twin Room Benefits include a TV, tea and coffee making facilities, and an en suite bathroom with a hairdryer.

Two-Bedroom Apartment (max 6 guests) Benefits include a TV, tea and coffee making facilities, and an en suite bathroom with a hairdryer.

Suite Benefits include a TV, tea and coffee making facilities, and an en suite bathroom with a hairdryer.

Two-Bedroom Apartment (max 4 guests) Featuring a private entrance, this apartment comprises 1 living room, 2 separate bedrooms and 1 bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer. Meals can be prepared in the well-fitted kitchen, which comes with a refrigerator, kitchenware and a toaster. The apartment features carpeted floors, a seating area with a flat-screen TV, a tea and coffee maker, a dining area as well as garden views. The unit offers 3 beds.

Two-Bedroom Apartment (max 5 guests) Featuring a private entrance, this apartment consists of 1 living room, 2 separate bedrooms and 1 bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer. The well-fitted kitchen has a refrigerator, kitchenware and a toaster. The apartment features carpeted floors, a seating area with a flat-screen TV, a tea and coffee maker, a dining area as well as garden views. The unit offers 4 beds.

Family Room This family room provides a TV. The unit offers 2 beds.

Standard Twin Room This twin room offers a TV. The unit has 2 beds.

Guest Reviews
8.4
Very Good
Location
Nestled in the heart of serene rural countryside, The Swan Inn boasts a superb location that caters to a variety of visitor needs. The inn's setting is praised for its picturesque surroundings, offering a calm and quiet atmosphere that allows guests to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Visitors highlighted the convenience and ease of access, noting it as an ideal stopover for exploring the North Norfolk coast, Thetford Forest and historical towns such as Swaffham, Holt and Thetford.

Perfectly positioned for family gatherings, weddings and other celebrations, The Swan Inn also provides close proximity to those visiting friends and family in nearby areas. Travelers appreciated the tranquil, rural location, where wildlife can frequently be seen, contributing to the overall charm of the place. Despite its peaceful seclusion, it remains accessible with good parking facilities and it's easy to find for those venturing to other attractions or passing through en route to the Norfolk Broads.

While some guests did mention a bit of morning noise from the nearby road and occasional dust in the rooms, the striking views, friendly staff and excellent food more than compensated for these minor inconveniences. Overall, The Swan Inn stands out as a comfortable and strategically located retreat, perfect for anyone looking to explore the Norfolk region or seeking a quiet escape in a beautiful countryside setting.

Breakfast
At 'The Swan Inn', breakfast experiences garnered predominantly positive feedback from guests. Many described the breakfast as excellent with particular praise for the cooked options, highlighting the English Fry-up. Guests frequently noted the breakfast as being substantial, delicious and offering great value for money with some mentioning an all-you-can-eat option for £10. The buffet breakfast was repeatedly lauded for its variety and quality, appealing to those who enjoy traditional cooked breakfast choices.

However, there were mixed comments regarding timing and variety. Some reviews pointed out that breakfast starts late, which was inconvenient for early risers and there were occasional remarks about cold items like eggs and toast. A few guests expressed a desire for more diverse options, including cereals, fruit juices and vegetarian selections, which were sometimes lacking.

Despite these minor critiques, the overall sentiment was highly favorable. Guests appreciated the high-quality ingredients, generous portions and reasonable pricing. The friendly and efficient service further enhanced the dining experience, making breakfast at 'The Swan Inn' a highlight of their stay. The inn's comfortable accommodations and excellent evening meals also contributed to a satisfying visit.

Dinner
The dining experience at The Swan Inn receives consistently high praise from guests. Most reviews highlight the excellent quality of the food with many describing their meals as fantastic, delicious and very enjoyable. The restaurant offers good value and a varied menu, including options for dietary preferences like gluten-free and vegan/vegetarian. Guests frequently mention the great portion sizes and commend the pub for its solid traditional fare, from lamb steaks and fresh vegetables to hearty staples like steak and ale pie.

Breakfast and dinner are both well-regarded, often described as superb, amazing and lovely. The pub also serves a good selection of beers and ales, which complement the meals nicely. Despite occasional mentions of delayed service and a few negative experiences, the overall satisfaction with the dining options remains high. Friendly and helpful staff further enhance the dining experience, making The Swan Inn a popular place for a satisfying meal.

Rooms
The Swan Inn offers a distinct blend of charm and comfort through its accommodations, striking a balance between rustic appeal and modern amenities. Guests have largely appreciated the spacious and comfortable rooms, which offer plenty of character and are often described as clean and well-appointed. The converted barn accommodations have been especially popular, highlighted for their tasteful furnishings, cleanliness and self-contained home feel. Despite some issues like occasional dust, older appliances or the need for updates in certain areas, the overall experience remains positive with many finding the rooms more than sufficient for their needs.

Some patrons found the rooms to be a perfect fit for short stays, enjoying features like separate seating areas, well-equipped facilities and beautiful views across fields. The beds have garnered compliments for their comfort, contributing to an overall restful experience. Common areas available in some suites, such as kitchens and living rooms, have been appreciated, especially by those staying in the spacious two-bedroom apartments.

While there were some concerns over noise due to thin walls and a few comments on the size of certain rooms, the friendly and helpful staff, along with the clean and comfortable settings, often offset these minor inconveniences. Overall, The Swan Inn presents itself as a cozy and welcoming destination, ideal for a variety of stays, from quick stopovers to more extended visits.

Beds
The beds at The Swan Inn have received largely positive feedback from guests. Many reviewers found the beds to be comfortable with numerous mentions of comfy and very comfortable beds ensuring a restful night's sleep. Guests appreciated the cleanliness and freshness of the bedding, as well as the spacious rooms that often come with the comfortable beds.

However, a subset of reviews noted some issues. Several guests found the beds to be either too soft or too firm for their liking and a few mentioned the beds being creaky or lumpy. Specific complaints included beds feeling like hammocks, requiring replacement mattresses or being makeshift with uncomfortable metal frames. Despite these occasional negative remarks, the overall sentiment about the bedding remained positive, highlighting a comfortable and pleasant experience for most visitors.

Cleanliness
The Swan Inn is generally praised for its cleanliness by guests. Reviewers frequently describe the rooms as clean, comfortable and well-appointed, making it an appealing choice for a stay. Many found the bedding, towels and linens to be fresh and spotless. The overall cleanliness met guest expectations with several highlighting the meticulous upkeep of both bedrooms and bathrooms, which were often noted to be spacious and tidy.

Guests also appreciated the friendly and accommodating staff who contributed to the welcoming atmosphere of the inn. The cleanliness extended beyond individual rooms with communal areas also being well-maintained. The inn’s commitment to hygiene is evident, as many reviewers commented on the spotless conditions upon their arrival.

However, some reviews mentioned areas in need of attention. Issues such as black mold in showers, cobwebs and dusty spots detracted from an otherwise positive experience. Certain bathrooms were criticized for needing updates and deep cleaning, which indicates room for improvement in maintaining these facilities.

Despite minor grievances, The Swan Inn remains a favored spot for its cleanliness, comfortable accommodations and the convenience of amenities like an all-you-can-eat breakfast and a well-regarded pub/restaurant on site. The overall impression left by guests is one of satisfaction with the hygiene standards, making it a reliable option for travelers seeking a clean and comfortable stay.

Staff
The staff at The Swan Inn consistently receive glowing reviews from guests, who describe them as extremely friendly, efficient and helpful. They are praised for their warm, welcoming nature and their readiness to go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay. Many guests highlight the staff's ability to be accommodating and courteous, even during busy times. Words such as pleasant, polite and attentive frequently appear in the reviews, emphasizing a consistent standard of exceptional service. The owners are also noted for their excellent hospitality, adding to the overall inviting and friendly atmosphere of the inn. Overall, the staff contribute significantly to the positive experiences and satisfaction of the guests.

Wi-Fi
The wi-fi experience at The Swan Inn varies significantly depending on the location within the property. Guests who stayed in areas such as the annex or barn frequently reported non-existent or extremely weak wifi signals, despite the hotel's website claiming coverage in all rooms. Mobile signal in the area is also notably weak, compounding connectivity issues for some visitors. However, there have been positive mentions of strong and good wifi in other parts of the main accommodations. It’s worth noting that improvements to the wifi are reportedly underway, indicating an intention to enhance connectivity throughout the facility shortly.

Parking
The Swan Inn offers an abundance of parking options, ensuring that guests never have to worry about finding a spot. With ample space available, including areas close to the family annex and accessible rooms, guests can enjoy the convenience of parking right near their accommodations. The parking arrangements are commended for being well-organized and suitable even for larger vehicles, such as a massive American minivan. Additionally, the parking is free, which adds to the overall appeal. Though there was a minor suggestion to improve clarity for disabled badge holders, the vast majority of reviews praise the easy and plentiful parking that enhances the overall experience of staying at The Swan Inn.

Romantic
Nestled in a nice location, The Swan Inn offers a friendly atmosphere that makes it an inviting retreat. Particularly quaint and cozy, the inn provides a tranquil environment perfect for unwinding. Guests appreciate the opportunity to switch off and enjoy simple pleasures like watching the stars. The venue boasts a very good value meal, enhancing the overall experience. While it seems to be great for families and pets, this spot may not be traditionally romantic but offers a serene haven for a relaxing stay.

Dog Friendly
The Swan Inn stands out for its exceptional dog-friendly accommodations, making it a perfect choice for those traveling with pets. Many guests appreciated the warm welcome extended to their furry friends, noting the hotel's accommodating nature towards dogs. The bar area and the pub welcome dogs, enhancing the inclusive atmosphere of the inn.

Families and pet owners alike found the stay comfortable with thoughtful amenities like toddler plates and cutlery available in the cupboards. Guests also noted the convenience of a nice grass area with a fence surrounding the barn, providing a secure space for pets to play.

The hospitality extends to breakfast time, where staff were willing to go the extra mile by providing a sausage for a guest's dog. Overall, the combination of family-friendly features and pet accommodations, alongside great food, makes The Swan Inn a pleasant and inviting destination for all types of travelers.


No, The Swan Inn doesn't have any pool.

No, a spa isn't available at The Swan Inn.

Yes, The Swan Inn welcomes dogs. For more information, read the answers to the Dog Friendly questionnaire

Yes, parking facilities are available at The Swan Inn.

No, The Swan Inn doesn't have a gym.

Location Show Map
More Options
  • Resort in Cromer

  • 8.9 Excellent

  • From $70

  • Hotel in Hunstanton

  • 8.4 Very Good

  • From $152

  • Guest House in Great Yarmouth

  • 9.6 Excellent

  • From $94

  • Hotel in Norwich

  • 8.4 Very Good

  • From $112



6,371,044

Hotels

60

Categories

49,805

Regions

209,065

Cities


×
×
Checkin
× Home About Press Categories Blog Hotel Awards Travelmyth GPT Contact Terms & Conditions Privacy Policy Cookies Policy FAQ