Came here for afternoon tea. It was absolutely amazing. The ambience and the service are both wonderful. There was so much food that can with the afternoon tea Tower. The sandwiches were delicious and the scones were probably the best I have ever had. There were also lots of options for teas including herbal for those of us who can't have caffeine. Would love to come here again next time I'm in London. read more

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The only thing going for this place is the view. Saw the reviews and really inspired by the fish n chips. The service is at best functional. Food came out hot but fish was soggy with way to much batter and the chips not seasoned. Really disappointing since the UK has been doing fish n chips almost forever. Pricing was a bit above average so it wasn't "you get what you pay for" it's a tourist trap to avoid. Cheers read more

After walking around the Globe, I lost all willpower and decided to check out Swan for my first official fish and chips meal in London. Call me cliche, but it's like Shakespeare says - a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do. The place is less like a bar and more like a trendy diner. I loved the long communal tables in the middle of the space, and that's where I sat. It also allowed for the opportunity to meet strangers sitting next to you! I shared the fish and chips and had a tea. The fish was tender, super fried, and a pretty big portion, and comes with pea mash, which I wish there was more of, because it was a winner. The tea was refreshing and came in a cute little set. It was all slightly expensive, and the location might be a reason for that. The service was pretty slow, even on a weekday afternoon. We had multiple people, so that may have confused things. But overall, it was a solid dining experience in a relaxing atmosphere. Oh and if you go to the bathroom, you'll see vintage photographs of plays from the Globe, which I thought was pretty cool. read more

Swan - British Near Me - Bankside, XGL

Overlooking the south bank, we could not have asked for a better afternoon tea experience. We were seated on the 2nd floor overlooking the river with an absolutely incredible view. Our server was so sweet, going though all of the different sandwiches and pastries. She took the time to walk us through the right order to enjoy the pastry tower and give tea recommendations based on what each of us like. We were pretty surprised how much was served but we never felt rushed and took our time to eat and relax. read more

Ok, let's get this out there immediately: I am in no way a Shakespeare fan and I definitely am not an afternoon tea kinda person BUT you know who is? My girlfriend! Which in turn meant that we needed to book "afternoon tea" before a performance of "Taming of the Shrew" at The Globe. Sure! Why not?Anything to make her happy and it would be a first for me. Now, to my surprise, this meal made me very happy. Didn't expect much but left very satisfied. Sat at a beautiful table, the sun glistening through the windows, amazing views of the Thames & St. Paul's and incredible service that assisted us in ordering a big pot of English breakfast tea and two different food trays (classic & gentleman's tea). Have to say, I was impressed. Besides a way too strong blue cheese butter in the Gentleman's Tea tray and some sweets that were just too sweet, everything else was delicious and made for quite the lovely meal in wonderful surroundings. A bit on the pricey side BUT when you take into account the location, food quality and impeccable service, the price is more than justified. Again, NOT something one should do everyday but when you can, get over to Swan and splurge a bit,m as it would be money well spent. Extra points if it's meant for the wifey because no way she will NOT love it. A unique & cultural experience that will not leave you disappointed. read more

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Had such an amazing dining experience here! Got to have some afternoon tea with friends. While visiting London, we all knew we needed to have afternoon tea. The places we looked at were all booked in advance, unfortunately. And after attempting a different location and getting rejected since they were fully booked, we happened across Swan. They too were fully booked as well, but the hostess immediately attempted to find us a table despite this fact. And after a few minutes, she came back with a spot for us! So A+ customer service already!! The bottom plate was definitely my favorite of course. The savory foods, ughhh those small finger sandwiches are to die for. On the second plate were the scones, which were absolutely delicious! They melted in your mouth. On the final third plate on top were the sweet sweet desserts. All of them tasted amazing! The restaurant was I believe three floors, and the ambiance of the whole place is a big WOW! Modern, gorgeous and cute all at the same time. Also, the location of the place is walking distance to many tourist areas.. Service is amazing, the tea was great and they offered different choices. I also got a cocktail or 'love potion' as they called it, which was super good (& strong hahah!). read more

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The staff here went above and beyond for my sister's wedding! From the drinks, to the appetizers, to the entree, it was seamless. Let the pictures explain.... read more

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The food and atmosphere were great! Toffee pudding was spectacular, not too sweet, and the toffee sauce was yummy and pooled around pudding. It is located right on the river, so it has a wonderful view, too. read more

We were looking for a good Sunday lunch and certainly found it here. It's nice to have a Sunday roast that hasn't been cremated or the veggies deep fried . The sides were very generous portions and we kept asking for more sides , more gravy etc and the staff kept bringing it. Beautiful views of the river and a genteel clientele round this off as a perfect Sunday lunch spot. We went at 12.30 and it wasn't too busy. It's expensive for a Sunday roast priced around £29-£30 per dish . My husband enjoyed the IPA which was imported from the US. Staff couldn't have been more helpful, polite and attentive. A credit to The Swan and the Shakespeare's Globe that it's attached to . read more

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Located right next to The Globe, I figured this would be a tourist trap given its location but it was one of the only places open at 9pm on a Sunday night. I started with a G&T and ordered the soup for starters. Both were well made and nicely presented. The main course was the highlight of the meal though: A perfectly cooked sea bream, great flavor. The views are top notch (i was in the restaurant with only 2 other people so had my pick of tables) overlooking the Thames. Staff was top notch and never had to wait for anything. Great stop and worth the visit for the historic location, great views, and good cocktails. read more

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We had an impromptu dinner at Swan a few weeks ago when we were going to the Globe Theatre. Although we didn't have a reservation, it was early in the evening, and we were seated in the upstairs dining room. The bar downstairs was lively, crowded and very noisy. Upstairs was quiet, and it had a great view of the Thames and the city. I had fish that was delicious, and my partner had duck. I wasn't very hungry, but the server let me order just a main rather than an entire meal. Nevertheless, I ended up sharing my partner's white chocolate raspberry tart that was so good we found a recipe and made it at home (though it wasn't quite as good as Swan's). Swan is a very nice restaurant whether you're going to the Globe or not! read more

I have had afternoon tea at quite a few places, including a couple in London, and the Swan's was by far my favorite! The atmosphere is perfect, elegant but not too snobby. The view of the Thames is beautiful. The theming for the afternoon tea is on point (A Midsummer Night's Dream), all the way down yo the plates and the teacups and saucers - side note: those plates were so beautiful I had to ask if they are sold at the shop, which wasn't the case. I got the regular afternoon tea, and every single item was delicious and the set overall was nicely balanced. They do also offer a Gentleman's Afternoon Tea option, which is all savory. The service was also great; which is not always the case when you're dining solo. I would definitely come back here next time I'm in London. read more

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Came for brunch on a Saturday. Great spot on the Thames river and great food as well. Was also nice to get there early so it wasn't busy. The food was good but not a lot of variety. I would recommend regardless though. The place would serve anyone's needs and is a great spot to stop for food and get off the busy sidewalks. read more

Swan - Eggs Royale - British Near Me - Bankside, XGL

We did a simple cream tea at the Swan. There are a million afternoon teas to pick from in London and throughout England so it can be a little overwhelming and I went in to our vacation feeling as though I had to do them all the time. Cream teas are less extravagant and don't leave you feelings as though you need to wear stretchy pants and avoid all other meals for the rest of the day. I really wanted to eat at this venue during our "Globe Day" for our trip and a simple cream tea filled me up and kept me warm before our matinee - just be sure you to take advantage of all restroom breaks - Shakespeare plays can be long so if you are seeing a show after your visit to the Swan plan that carefully. read more

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Delightful place. First off, great location. I came in around 3:30 on a Tuesday and it was pretty quiet. The staff were very friendly, and the "lounge" seating was very cozy. The menu has a good range of tasty bits and drinks. I got a mock tail, then cream tea. Lovely view of the river, right by Shakespeares Globe. I would come back and recommend to anyone. read more

Outstanding food and great service. We had the roast lamb dinner for two. It was pricey but it was wonderful and we had a great view of the river. Basically you are paying a premium for the location. read more

Every morsel presented in the decadent tower of treats was artfully made. But of all the impressive nibbles, the scones were by far the most scrumptious. Imagine a lovely laminated crust that just crumbles a little when you split open the soft, airy biscuit (I mean scone). The clotted cream and house made preserves were also sublime. Surprisingly we were not able to finish off the sweet feast. So we had the remainder boxed up to enjoy in our hotel room. The macron, bon bon, jelly and mini cake were all perfect. Was this afternoon tea experience worth £35 per person? Absolutely. read more

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Great views and nice location. Good selection of vegetarian options. Very slow service

Swan gets all the stars in my book! This was probably the best dinner I had while in London. From the classy decor to the beautiful views and excellent food, this was an excellent dining experience and it truly was an experience. The service was wonderful and the food was beautifully presented. We made reservations ahead of time as were were going to a show at the Globe and wanted to ensure we had enough time. It looked the the vibe and atmosphere were a bit different between the bar area/first floor versus upstairs. Upstairs, where we were seated, seemed nicer, less chaotic with amazing views of the river and St. Paul's Cathedral. Since it was Sunday, the Sunday Menu it was! (2 Courses 29.50 or 3 courses 32.50). We were only expecting to get 2 courses but the meal was so good we stayed for a 3rd. The entire dinner was maybe 1.5-2 hours, they did not try to rush us and the service was not slow- everything come out in a good timed pace. It is a limited menu but there seems to be something for everyone from a meat to a veggie to a fish dish. For the main course I had the Roast (Old spot roast pork belly, baked apple sauce, all the trimmings) All the trimmings included potatoes carrots and onions. There was also bone marrow. Everything was seasoned perfectly and very tasty. For dessert or pudding, I had the most delicious custard of set vanilla cream with raspberry, timut pepper, candied almond. It was perfect. YUM! This really was such a good meal. Highly recommend. read more

Swan - British Near Me - Bankside, XGL

Had a group "Sunday supper" here, and it was certainly a great way to experience this traditional British meal. We were seated in one of the upstairs rooms/spaces which had a very nice view across the River Thames. The meal started with a cold leek soup--cold soups aren't my favorite, typically, but this was decent enough. But the real star of the night was the over-the-top main course: a huge slice of delicious rare roast beef, bone marrow, Yorkshire pudding, cabbage, potatoes, carrots...and I simply forget what else. I just know it was a ridiculous plate of food, very hearty and very satisfying. After that I was very glad for the light dessert of raspberry panna cotta. Everything about the service was well done and those of us who chose to were able to linger until closing time to finish some wine and just catch up. I can't speak for the regular menu service, but I'd certainly recommend the Swan as a fine place to organize a group dinner or event and have it executed well. read more

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Pub right next to the globe theater. It was pretty crowded but the staff was good and attentive. Had an issue with my card (USA Bank thought a beer was fraud and declined the sale). The barman comped it out to me and said, "Have a nice show." I will be back to this place next time I'm in town. This time with cash at a minimum. But also I want to try the food too. read more

Super busy before and after shows! I definitely recommend reservations! Luckily for us, we just wanted to grab a quick drink before the afternoon show at The Globe. We were seated in comfy leather chairs and shared a wooden coffee table with another couple. I loved the Shakespeare themed cocktails-- I'm a sucker for anything themed and cute. I had to try the Midsummer Night's Dream. It had prosecco, vodka, lemon, honey, bitters, and orange marmalade--- though it be a little cocktail, it was fierce! The marmalade was everything! I can't speak for the food, but it looked divine! read more

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For me, experienced once sufficed. Loved their decor overall and especially the serving sets-absolutely cute and fun! The food was good. Nothing stood out from my memories afterwards. Mostly because I was busy exploring my surrounding and individual plate, cup, tea pot.....on our table of four people and had a very enjoyable time! Great experience which one should give it a try at least once! read more

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I wanted to experience a proper tea while in London and ended up at Swan Shakespeare's Globe after touring the Tate Modern. Served from 11:30 am - 3:30 pm Monday thru Saturday and 2:00 - 3:30 pm on Sunday, it was the perfect afternoon pick-me-up. The restaurant itself is two levels, with the tea taking place on the top, more formal level. We were seated near a window which provided a great view of the River Thames and surrounding landmarks. For 26.50 pounds, we got a three tiered display of sandwiches, biscuits and desserts. We also ordered two pots of tea and, since I was feeling celebratory, a glass of Love Potion, a mix of Earl Grey infused gin, honey from the London Honey Co, blackberry puree and prosecco, topped with fresh blackberries. It was SO GOOD. Let's just say my dream of tea was more than fulfilled. It was such a nice respite from touring London and I would definitely recommend. Although this spot may be on the pricier side, the ambiance, service and quality of food was more than worth it! read more

Swan - Tea for two! - British Near Me - Bankside, XGL

After a short ride on the tube, we journeyed to Shakespeare's Old Globe Theatre. Unfortunately, only those with tickets can go into the courtyard. I tried to con my way in by presenting my teacher's card, but since they were getting ready for a show, they couldn't let me in. So we did the next best thing, lunch at the Swan which is part of the rather large box office. The waitress was friendly and told us to sit anywhere we wanted. There was a very lively crowd on the balcony, but we sat inside near a window. We ordered a couple of pints of the UK ale, which was good and hit the spot. I ordered the fish and chips and the partner had the chicken club with bacon and avocado. He also ordered a side of triple cooked chips. The Brits really know how to do their potatoes right. The chips were thick and had a firm and crispy outside. The fish was very fresh and the meal came with mashed peas...an interesting and unique side dish. Everything was great! The club had a grilled chicken breast, but the roll was a little hard. When we paid the bill, there was a discretionary 12.5% gratuity added, which we didn't have to pay as it was stated on the menu. Now we understood what those rats did at Soho Thai, but they could've been a lot more discrete and professional. The second waitress who took my credit card told us she really wanted to go to America, especially California. She asked quite a few questions which we were more than happy to answer. She was also from Italy. The best part was the group of Brits who moved in from the balcony. We told them we were leaving and the young lady shouted, "Why don't you join us!" They then asked where we were from how we liked our "holiday," and that we really should stay for another pint. We probably wouldn't be able to find our way back to Picadilly. Our experience at the Swan made up for that downer at Soho Thai. We strolled away happy and content. read more

Swan - Real fish and chips, and a half drunk beer...cheers! - British Near Me - Bankside, XGL

If you are going to see a play at The Globe (as you should...it's fabulous and I don't care if you think you can't understand it...google a synopsis and let the actors do the rest), then you simply must visit The Swan next door. It does get pretty busy, but we found a table on the patio. Unfortunately, it did not have the view of the Thames, so being the obnoxious American that I am, I asked a gentleman with a table for six if we could share it with him. The ex-Pat Russian attorney living in Turkey and trying a case in London (does it get any more cosmopolitan? I just love London!) was delighted to have two lovely women join him. We both could not pass up the Shepard's Pie...the best I have ever had...with the peas and carrots mixed in with what seemed to be a Guinness gravy over beef was savory underneath a layer of crusted mashed potatoes. The view of the Globe, the people in the street, the boats on the river, that pie, good conversation, and a frosty, crisp cider made for a perfect pre-play party. The service was outstanding as well. You definitely can't miss it. read more

Swan - The vie of The Thames from The Swan's patio deck - British Near Me - Bankside, XGL

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Came here for afternoon tea after visiting Tate Modern. We didn't have a reservation but the receptionist made a table for us in the dining area by the bar with the view of Thames. It was a typical fancy afternoon tea with a three tier stand filled with savories and sweets but the price was reasonable compared to other places in London. Our server was lovely and attentive. She boxed all the leftovers for us to take. read more

Good spot for authentic afternoon tea！ You can enjoy both sweet afternoon tea and not sweet one as your choice. You can enjoy afternoon tea with casual clothes and there are nice view from the window. Reasonable price and only known for local customs. read more

Swan - British Near Me - Bankside, XGL

I started looking at the reviews around the Globe for a good place to eat and the Swan wins. I'm glad it did. After walking around London for 5 hours I was ready to eat and sit and take my time eating. The Swan is located in the Globe entrance, the main restaurant is upstairs on the 3rd floor and is worth all the pennies. Take a break from the grime and bustle of London tourists and join the upper class at the top of the Swan. Service and food were fantastic. I had a full three course meal with wine and 2 750ml bottles of Blenheim Palace water for £50 (including larger tip) If I had not been so dehydrated or a big tipper the meal would have been £40. But it was so worth the view, food, view, experience and service that it made the day complete. I had the salmon to start with, mushroom crepe for main course and the bitter chocolate moose which was superb! They bring bread to the table in little sacks which was really good, made up for the bread they served with the salmon which I did not like. Looking around the main course salmon was huge, but had a lot of bones in, the burgers and steaks looked great too. I had a great server with a fantastic sense of humor. I would make a point to go again if I was in the area. read more

Swan - British Near Me - Bankside, XGL

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Was considering going to the Anchor but was not impressed by the menu and so asked the man at The Globe. He suggested the Swan saying that the pricing was about the same as the anchor but better quality. Certainly the menu seemed a little better Approximately £16 for a main course and £7 for a pint. Had the pie which was nice but needed a little salt ( but that is better than too much) Would I come again? Possibly read more

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I'll be honest. I don't like tea. However, having been in London for almost six weeks, afternoon tea seemed like a necessary experience. I went here with a group of 10 people. We were the only large group there, so we had an area all to ourselves. I had not eaten much that day so I decided to go with the gentleman's tea. Everything included with it was pretty good but not great. My largest qualms with the whole experience is that it felt like the workers did not want us there. I understand the large group of college students is not the usual afternoon tea crowd, but our money works the same as everyone else's. We weren't disruptive or rude. It just wasn't very welcoming. read more

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A very gorgeous place on the Thames waterfront​ in the heart of London next to the Shakespeare​ Globe​ Theatre. You feel very warmly welcomed​ by a very kind staff. We were​ there with my wife to celebrate our wedding anniversary and without saying anything our waiter brings​ us a very touching attention. The food is fresh, very tasty and inventive. We had a very great time and I would come back for sure to try the bar and other meal on the menu ! read more

Swan - A very touching attention with amazing chocolate truffles - British Near Me - Bankside, XGL

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We came here without a reservation on a Saturday night, yes we live dangerously! Since we were going to see a comedy at the Globe it's location can not be beat. I especially liked how their was an entrance to the theatre by the toilets. We walked past the bouncer at the door up the stairs to the bar and were greeted immediately. She quickly showed us to a sofa and two chairs were we had a lovely inside view. The atmosphere is fun and the prices are better than most pubs. The only reason this is not a five star review is the service, it was slow and the waitress forgot to bring me water several times. I would recommend coming here. read more

Swan - View of St.Peters from the Swan bar area. - British Near Me - Bankside, XGL

09/13/17 Not far from Tate Modern Museum. This is the restaurant that is connected to Shakespeare's Globe with gorgeous views of the Thames river and St. Paul's cathedral. This two story restaurant a partner with the Shakespeare Globe Theater for over a decade. Contemporary British cuisine is showcased here. Morgan I think was the Maitre D but he ended up being our waiter. He was unbelievably knowledgeable, friendly and an expert in customer service. I can not impart how truly wonderful, attentive and friendly he was. We continued to rave not only about him but about the food. There are bites in our life that leave an indelible memory on our brain. Memories of lovely and luscious, delectable, savory and sweet treats play in my mind. This was my families first time to London and our fist time to this restaurant. We were leaving London and my daughter and I wanted to try a high tea before we left. I made the faux pas of not dressing up. I humbly apologized to the hostess and to Morgan who was beyond kind and gracious and told us not to worry! Thanks Morgan for making us feel welcome and understood. Was super excited to try the new menu for high tea that was made to compliment a Midsummer Night's Dream. The dinner ware had Midsummer Night's Dream character's on them. I was super amused and wish that my photo's of the plates and flatware turned out. Even the menu had the same design as our plates. My daughter and I have never had high tea. We felt it was a must do before we left London. High tea is a shared platter. We ordered tea. I ordered Sapphire Earl Grey my daughter had the Egyptian mint. My husband and son ordered off the main menu. My husband ordered the special of the day. My son got slow cooked short rib or beef with braised carrots, mashed potatoes and pickled onions. Our meals arrived together. My daughter's and mine was a three tier platter. The first platter was dessert, the second scones and the first savory items. On our menu was wild mushroom and leek quiche, Wiltshire ham with grain mustard and pea shoots, oak smoked salmon with lemon pepper butter on dark rye, Clarence court egg with mayonnaise and watercress. These little bites were so delectable and tasty that I had to close my eyes and savor each and every bite. My daughter and I were beyond pleased. I love salmon but that one was my least favorite. The second tier had mulberry and plain scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam. This was the first time we had a British scone. These scones were flaky, lightly crisp around the edges with a light and airy center. The clotted cream and jam on top just put them over the top. Thanks again to Morgan who when asked what the etiquette was on how to enjoy the High Tea. He was so kind and full of information. He was right the jam and clotted cream really make the scones heaven. The desserts at the top were divine. They were rose infused raspberry and lemon cake, Elderflower and violet macroons, glazed white chocolate blondie with caco nibs, blackberry compote with lavendar cream. I know it doesn't sound like a lot of food but it was. I was not able to finish both of my scones because it was so much food.The desserts were so light, airy and luscious. Again we were closing our eyes to savor the flavor and moment. The cost seemed to be about average when I was researching High Teas in London. I can only rave about our high tea or about Morgan. Would I go back? You bet I would. While we were munching down our little finger foods off the High Tea platter we could hear my husband and son oohing and ahhing over their own plates. Can I just say look at my pictures and I am sure you can understand why they were in love with their meal. I truly hope that Morgan is give Kudos!! Thanks so much Swan Shakespeare Globe for a wonderful, superb meals that will leave a memory that will last a lifetime or the next time we go to London!! read more

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A gorgeous space next to the Globe Theater. Swan is light and bright inside with plenty of booths and communal picnic-style tables. You order at the bar and find a seat. Drinks were good. I tried the "The Mighty Pear" (a pear-flavored old fashioned). Friends liked their "Love Potion" drinks with a bottle of blackberry honey gin to pour into the Prosecco. But my friend had to send back her espresso martini so stick to what's on the menu. read more

I enjoyed "A Midsummer Night's Dream Afternoon Tea" prior to watching "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at Shakespeare's Globe. I loved the proximity to Shakespeare's Globe, and the attention to detail on the menu for the afternoon tea (which was set up so that each item was related to the play). I was seated by open windows, which allowed for a nice breeze. The staff was friendly, and the restrooms were clean. The only thing I would improve upon would be the sandwiches which were included in the afternoon tea, which I didn't really care for. However, it was an excellent experience overall and one that I would highly recommend! read more

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This charming pub situated directly next to Shakespeare's globe is perfect for a pint before or after a show. My friend and I went for a drink in the late afternoon and enjoyed watching the boats moving along the Thames. As a tourist, I would say this should definitely be on your must-visit list. It is also a great ending point to a lovely stroll along the river. With this being quite touristy, I expected drinks to be on the pricier side but was happy to see that drinks were well-priced. Cocktails were also given a unique Shakespearean twist. read more

We were looking for a place to eat after visiting the Tate Modern and The Shakespeare Globe. The Swan Shakespeare is connected to the Globe. We chose to sit in the bar instead of the restaurant since we were looking to have a reasonably priced lunch. We compared the menus and the bar menu items were half to two thirds the price of the restaurant menu - different menu items. The food was very good. The Sandwich of the day served with 3 salads of the day was delicious, generous in portion and it was a relative bargain at 8 pounds and 50 pence. The Swan Shakespeare also had 1/2 pint options for their draught beer and cider that is priced fairly - great to have the half pint option to have for lunch. Service was friendly and efficient. The seating was very comfortable. We had a view of the River Thames. I highly recommend The Swan Shakespeare when visiting Tate Modern or Shakespeare Globe. read more

The worst service I have experienced in a while. 30 minutes to get a beer. Took menus then did not take our order and had to track down. Not an issue of understaffing, so few people there and wow could they not get served without hunting down waiter. read more

2 words - vegemite butter! not a fan of vegemite but swan turned it into a savory spread the view of millenium bridge and thames is spectacular and right next to historic globe theater. read more

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