The Swan Inn Islip

Amazing what difference it makes when the head chef changes. Previously enjoyed going to eat wherever Paul was chef (215 in Summertown, and here). There was none of the finesse with the flavours and textures. Went for a Sunday roast with a foodie friend with whom we had gone there and were impressed previously. This time we were bitterly disappointed. Chicken was dry, the quantities were too much; we had planned on having 3 courses but were too full after main to order dessert. Knives were blunt (even though we had fed this back previously). The mushroom butter for the bread just tasted sweet. Shame Paul has gone but I wish him the best with his new adventure.

Stopped here for a drink at the end of a walk. It was mid afternoon and food was not available but the staff could not have been more welcoming and we had drinks in the lovely, peaceful garden as the weather was warm and sunny. The dining area that we walked through was beautifully decorated with low lights, attractive wallpaper and nice furniture. The menu had some very tempting dishes. Would definitely revisit to try the food.

We had such a brilliant experience at The Swan! Huge thanks to Theo for his warm hospitality and for squeezing us in last minute. Honestly, it was one of the best Sunday roasts I’ve ever had — perfectly cooked, generous portions, and absolutely delicious. The atmosphere was welcoming and relaxed, making the whole afternoon feel really special. Can’t wait to come back!

We came here for a friend's birthday, one of our parties had an intolerance and it was handled safely and creatively to ensure that she had as many options on the menu as possible. The food was exceptional, especially the picanha steak with a chimichurri. All plates were laid out beautifully and perfect portion sizes. The service was Michelin star worthy, nothing was too much trouble, highly attentive without being overbearing and friendly smiley staff all round! Little touches of a birthday candle in a sweet treat, and over hearing us talking about the roast menu which appeared a few minutes later made it extra personal. It was a reduced menu, as there were staff members on holiday, however, you wouldn't have known. We will definitely be back and will be raving to our friends and family. ⑦

Went for dinner last night, and blown away by the food. We hadn’t expected such fine dining for a village pub, absolutely delicious- perfectly cooked fish, ted er and juicy pork and the puddings, were to die for- tarragon ice cream an absolute revelation- the modern take on banoffee pudding was superb. We will definitely be returning and recommending to friends- great value for the quality too .

Top notch service - the staff are incredibly welcoming and friendly. The food was delightful and tasty. A minor quibble was that the appetiser was brought out with the main. Also we would have liked to have seen more vegetarian/vegan options.

We had a fantastic meal, with great service. Loved the wine pairing and the pork skin bites especially. Only regret - not ordering the apple crumble!!! Would recommend and go again sometime.

Poor food and texture, I think the chef has the tools to do some fancy looking dishes unfortunately doesn't deliver on flavour. Also one of the components of my meal was missing. Overall very poor don't go.

A traditional village pub with a grand view overlooking the old bridge at the southern end of the attractive village of Islip. The pub is an attractive stone building, reached up a steep flight of stone steps. Once inside there is a single bar area at the front, with low ceilings and a cosy feel. There's a function room at the rear as well (not always open). They serve Greene King IPA and a guest ale, which on our visit was Flanker's Tackle. There's a third hand-pump available, and so there may be an extra choice sometimes. The pub has a clearly dedicated following of locals, and also does food, though we didn't eat here: on our visit, much of the pub was given over to a local craft fair, so it's clearly an essential part of village life.

Hmmm. Read somewhere that the food was quite good. Not sure why they thought that as my food was pretty awful. Beer was cold so that was good but mash must have been made a couple of days ago and I am not even sure it was good then and then the gravy was Bisto's finest. Not what I would expect from a place that supposedly prides themselves on their food. Kids had fish fingers which were ok and mum had lasagna which was a microwave special Yuk. Would not recommend if looking for food as there are so many other great English pubs so close by