There’s something magical about Christmas in the countryside. From roaring fires and frosty mornings to the clink of a well-poured glass of wine. At The Swan at Forest Row, we’ve got the season wrapped up.
From festive menus perfect for group celebrations, to a traditional Christmas Day feast with all the trimmings, we’ll take care of the cooking so you can focus on enjoying yourself. Stay the night in one of our cosy rooms and make the most of the festive season, with some of Kent’s best Christmas experiences just around the corner.
Whether you’re planning a family get-together, a night out with friends, or simply need a winter escape, The Swan, is your perfect Christmas spot.
★★★★★ “We went to The Swan as they had Santa Claus between 4-6pm, so we took our 5 & 2 year old granddaughters along. They had a children’s magician who was great fun. Dinner was enjoyed by all, my Porchetta Burger was excellent. Matt and his team were very attentive and efficient, they created a very enjoyable atmosphere enjoyed by children and adults alike.” – Jimmy
★★★★★ “Incredible atmosphere even better wine and food. Came to England from America to visit family that live in Forest Row and this is one of the places they brought me to. I absolutely fell in love with the aesthetics of this gorgeous building. We sat in the little seating area tucked in to the fire place and enjoyed some fantastic rose.” – Megan


The countdown to Christmas starts here. Our Festive Celebration Menu is made for groups of six or more and is the perfect excuse to gather your favourite people together. From work parties to long-overdue catch-ups with friends, it’s a menu full of proper festive flavours! You’ll find turkey with all the trimmings, braised beef cheek, or a cranberry & chestnut nut roast for the plant-based crowd.
For larger parties, we offer our dining room for groups of up to 50, and our snug for groups up to 25 giving you your own space to celebrate with food, fizz, and plenty of festive cheer.
£45 per person | £20 deposit per person required.
Forget the stress, ditch the oven gloves, and let us take care of Christmas. Our chefs are cooking up a traditional four-course feast: from pressed ham hock to scallops, turkey with pigs in blankets, beef Wellington, a stunning wild mushroom wellington for plant-based guests, and of course, Christmas pudding to finish.
It’s everything you love about Christmas Day… just without the washing up.
£100 per person | £50 deposit per person required.
Sometimes the best Christmas present is a little space. If you’re visiting family in Kent (but don’t necessarily want to stay with them), our rooms are the perfect retreat. Think crisp sheets, countryside views, and a pint or a glass of Balfour fizz by the fire downstairs.
We’re open right through the festive period, so whether it’s Christmas Eve, Boxing Day, or the days in between, you’ll have a cosy base for the season.
Plus when you book direct, you’ll save 10% with the code DIRECT10.
Make a weekend of it.
The Swan sits in the heart of Forest Row, with Ashdown Forest on the doorstep and some of Sussex’s most enchanting festive days out just a short drive away. Here’s how we’d do it:
Ashdown Forest Winter Walks – Pull on your boots and wander through frosty heathland and ancient woodland. It’s Winnie-the-Pooh country, and it feels truly magical in winter.
Bluebell Railway Santa Specials – Step back in time on a steam train through the Sussex countryside. Meet Father Christmas, tuck into mince pies, and enjoy carols and festive cheer aboard a beautifully restored heritage train.
Wakehurst Glow Wild – A breathtaking lantern and light trail through the wild botanic garden. Expect glowing sculptures, fire torches, and a magical festive atmosphere under the stars.
Brighton Pavilion Ice Rink – About an hour away by car or train, skate against the backdrop of Brighton’s iconic Royal Pavilion, with twinkling lights, mulled wine, and a festive market.
Stay with us at The Swan, and you’ve got the perfect Sussex escape this December – roaring fires, hearty pub food, and plenty of seasonal spirit.




We’re open throughout the festive period, so whether you’re popping in for a cosy drink, a hearty meal, or a winter escape, we’ve got you covered.
Christmas Day: Food is pre-booked only, but our bar will be open for a while if you’re passing by on a festive stroll. Exact times will be confirmed closer to the day, so check back with us.
New Year’s Eve: We’re open until 1am to toast in the new year with good cheer, great drinks, and plenty of festive spirit.
For all other days, our usual opening hours apply. Check google for any amendments.
There's always a great saving to be had when you book direct with Balfour Inns Use the code 'DIRECT10' when booking

Bar
Monday- Saturday 8am - 11pm
Sunday 8am - 10pm
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Kitchen
Monday – Friday – 8-10am / 12-3pm / 6-9pm
Saturday – 8-10am / 12-9pm
Sunday – 8-10am / 12-8pm