Hill Farm is set in extensive grounds, conveniently close to the city centre. It’s a comfortable…
The Cygnet at The Swan Inn
“Restaurant in a former Cotswold stone inn with a destination vibe.” - AA Inspector
ISLIP, OXFORDSHIRE
Okay, it maybe set in a charming village by the River Ray, but this is no typical local. Front and centre as you enter is a modern open kitchen, with acclaimed chef Paul Welburn (previously of Oxford Kitchen fame) at the pass, while the adjacent Majlis Lounge serves a small-plate menu. Out back, the main-event Cygnet restaurant is a relaxed, barn-like space with vaulted ceiling and dark beams, decorated, as elsewhere, in shades of burgundy and sage highlighted by striking paper-mâché animal heads and colourful works by local artists. Expect light, fresh, creative dishes of flair and skill; perhaps heritage breed rib-eye and glazed cheek with celeriac and a bordelaise sauce, and to finish, toasted lemon chilboust with honey ice cream and whisky.
Awards, accolades & Welcome Schemes
Facilities – at a glance
Children welcome
Credit cards accepted
Gluten free menu
Private dining
Service charge
Features
- Seats: 35
- Private dining available
- On-site parking available
- Closed: 1–18 January, 28 May to 7 June, 3–19 September, 25–27 December
- Cuisine style: Modern British
- Vegetarian menu
Also in the area
About the area
Discover Oxfordshire
Located at the heart of England, Oxfordshire enjoys a rich heritage and surprisingly varied scenery. Its landscape encompasses open chalk downland and glorious beechwoods, picturesque rivers and attractive villages set in peaceful farmland. The countryside in the northwest of Oxfordshire seems isolated by comparison, more redolent of the north of England, with its broad views, undulating landscape and dry-stone walls. The sleepy backwaters of Abingdon, Wallingford, Wantage, Watlington and Witney reveal how Oxfordshire’s old towns evolved over the centuries, while Oxford’s imposing streets reflect the beauty and elegance of ‘that sweet city with her dreaming spires.’ Fans of the fictional sleuth Inspector Morse will recognise many Oxford landmarks described in the books and used in the television series.
The county demonstrates how the strong influence of humans has shaped this part of England over the centuries. The Romans built villas in the pretty river valleys that thread their way through Oxfordshire, the Saxons constructed royal palaces here, and the Normans left an impressive legacy of castles and churches. The philanthropic wool merchants made their mark too, and many of their fine buildings serve as a long-lasting testimony to what they did for the good of the local community.
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