A visitor to The Swan at Enford, a 350-year-old thatched pub in Wiltshire, was surprised to be served a pint by actor Rupert Everett, known for films such as My Best Friend’s Wedding and The Madness of King George. The interaction led to Everett initially claiming ownership of the pub when asked by the visitors. He clarified that he is involved in a community initiative aimed at saving the pub, which faced closure before local residents intervened to maintain the establishment.
Everett’s involvement is part of a broader effort to preserve the pub, a focal point for village cohesion. He joined the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) to support similar local establishments. Despite his fame, Everett emphasizes that he is not operating the bar due to personal financial struggles but rather as a community volunteer.
Local residents expressed the pub’s significance, particularly in light of recent challenges faced by farmers in the area and the overall morale in the countryside. Following the departure of the previous publican, The Swan is in search of a new professional to take over operations, prompting community members to pitch in to maintain the pub.
Everett also noted the financial pressures on pubs, referencing statistics indicating that significant taxation impacts their profitability. He suggested that easing taxes could benefit the sector.
The pub’s appeal lies in its role as a social hub for the community. Regular patrons, such as David Holmes and new residents like Iris Daunt-Withers, highlighted its importance for social connection. Camra reported that many pubs in the UK have closed, urging government support for these local institutions. The overall sentiment in the village reflects a commitment to revitalizing and preserving The Swan for future generations.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/film/2025/sep/06/pint-pulling-rupert-everett-surprises-country-pub-punters-wiltshire