THE new Swan Inn in the historical market town of Old Amersham opened its doors with a reception on May 10. Joining general manager Anthony Mitchell, deputy manager Chris Ramsley, and chefs Nicolas Balligang and Jonny James were a wide range of people, all invited to sample bites from the new menu, enjoy a glass of wine, and take in the newly refurbished interior.

More than 200 guests visited the former Beefeater, which has undergone a £460,000 transformation.

Perfect for both drinking and dining, the Swan Inn is a welcome addition to Old Amersham's picturesque High Street.

Anthony comments: "We had a great evening and it was the perfect opportunity for myself and the team to meet all the local residents from Amersham."

The new interior is stunning, with the bar area full of light wood, and complete with comfortable seats dotted around.

Upstairs is the restaurant area, with some views over the High Street, and a feel of somewhere special.

During the three month makeover, care was taken to ensure the new design was sympathetic to the architecture and character of the 17th century, Grade II listed pub.

With low beams, luxury furnishings, and open log fires, the heart of the building is complemented.

Anthony says: "Restoring the Swan Inn to its former glory has been both a major challenge and a great pleasure.

"I look forward to welcoming the local residents as they pop in for a meal or a drink and rediscover this beautiful pub."

A new menu hosts traditional dishes with a contemporary twist, including roast chicken wrapped in air dried ham with wild mushroom and smoked garlic sauce, pie of the day, sausage and mash, 10 ounce burger with bacon, cheese, relish and chips, courgette, lemon and parmesan risotto cakes, king prawns tossed with angel pasta, salads and gourmet sandwiches Desserts are also given a revamp, and include berry bread and butter pudding, treacle tart with clotted cream, and lemon and honey frozen parfait.

And there is also a wide selection of drinks to wash down the food, with a range of cold premium, continental draught lagers including Staropramen, Amstel, Birra Moretti and the award-winning cask ale Timothy Taylor, a variety of bottled beers, draught wines by the glass or carafe, a selection of other wines by the glass or bottle, and spirits.

The new Swan is entirely non smoking, and there is outdoor seating for dining and drinking in the summer.

There is no need to book so diners can just pop along and taste the new menu or relax over a drink.

The Swan Inn is on the High Street, Old Amersham, and is open from 11am to 11pm Monday to Saturday, and noon to 10.30pm on Sunday. Food is served from noon to 10pm each day.

For more information, telephone The Swan on 01494 727079