The Swan is reviewed by Harper’s Bazaar in the December 2017 edition:
“What can be better pre-Christmas, or indeed at any time of year, than escaping the big smoke for a seriously pretty seaside town? Southwold boasts an array of shops perfect for getting lost in, excellent pubs, a beach lined with multicoloured huts, a majestic lighthouse and, as of this autumn, the transformed Swan Hotel.
Accommodation
35 rooms span this townhouse hotel, plus two restaurants and a charming drawing-room. The Swan building dates back to the late 1600s and while, thankfully, many original features have been retained – such as the façade and weaving corridors and staircases – they are blended with vibrant new decor influenced by the hotel’s coastal location.
The rooms are divided by size into three categories – Excellent, Fabulous and Outstanding – all with beds made for hibernation. Goose- and duck-down bedding, double-sprung mattresses and more pillows than you could ever need contribute to an exceptional night’s sleep. The beautiful bathrooms were designed to complement the hotel’s location; after a blustery walk on the beach, you’ll want a good scrub, so the showers and baths have top-notch water pressure for supreme reinvigoration. The details are there too – including a Nespresso machine, minibar, local gin as a welcome gift, fluffy bathrobes, glossy magazines and board games.
Every corner of the hotel says comfort (in the most stylish sense of the word) and this is supported by brilliant service. The team are all smiles, knowledge and helpfulness, and the addition of butlers means you won’t lift a finger, or bag, for your entire stay. This really is a trip meant for ultimate relaxation.”