Steam Railway Co

14 Newport St

Old Town

SN1 3DX

01793 538048

WHAT’S IT LIKE?

Steam Railway Co has had a long line of operators in a short space of time, which has pushed regulars away and done little for its reputation in the heart of Old Town.

But husband and wife Paul and Emma Saunders, the pub’s new managers, want to put that right. In June, they moved from Basingstoke to make a new life in Swindon and are committed to turning Steam around.

They have already made their mark with the refurbishment of the beer garden and the purchase of a new pool table, which will be the cornerstone of the “sports-mad” bar.

“We want to integrate ourselves with the customers and the life of the pub,” Emma said.

“We will be down and behind the bar as much as we can, which we know the punters like. You can’t expect to get to know people if you are stuck upstairs in the office all day. You need to be with the customers. If they want something, you can do it and if it’s viable, you should do it. Your customers are your bread and butter.”

WHO GOES THERE?

There are already plans afoot for cider, beer and ale festivals, as well as live sports and music.

The pub also hopes to attract families. The garden certainly promises to be a great place for children to let off steam and run around this summer.

“It is such a big pub and there is a lot that can be done here,” added Emma. “We want the family to be involved in this pub, and it’s important the kids are happy here.”

PRICES

Carling £3.50, Guinness £3.90, London Pride £3.45. A small glass of house wine is £3. Medium and large glasses are £4 and £5 respectively.