Best Pubs in Old Town Swindon Live music, real ale and food

Swindon Old Town – the historic hill above the railway town – has a strong pub scene, from live music venues and gastropubs to traditional back-street locals. This guide highlights the best pubs in Old Town Swindon based on reviews, atmosphere, and what they're known for.

British pub exterior and street
Old Town Swindon has a mix of traditional pubs and modern bars. Credit: Unsplash

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Old Town pubs – check websites for opening hours
PubKnown for
The VictoriaLive music, welcoming atmosphere
Goddard ArmsHistoric, food, High Street
The Roaring DonkeyTraditional back-street local
Longs BarFood, cocktails, live music
Old Town LaundryCocktail bar

Live music and atmosphere

  • The Victoria (88 Victoria Road, SN1 3BD) – One of Swindon's best-known live music venues. Welcoming atmosphere, regular bands and events. See our Victoria guide for more.
  • Longs Bar – Popular venue with great food, cocktails, and live music. Part of Old Town's nightlife scene.

Historic and food-focused

  • Goddard Arms – Historic pub on Old Town High Street. Serves food and offers a mix of traditional and contemporary. Well positioned for exploring Old Town.

Traditional locals

  • The Roaring Donkey (6 Albert Street, SN1 3BN) – Traditional back-street pub with a 4.2 Google rating. Unpretentious, popular with regulars. A proper local.

Cocktail bars

  • Old Town Laundry Bar – Cocktail bar in the heart of Old Town. Good for a different vibe to the traditional pubs.

What's your favourite pub in Old Town?

The Victoria
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Goddard Arms
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The Roaring Donkey
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Longs Bar
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Old Town Laundry
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Other
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More food and drink in Old Town

For restaurants and cafés, see our guides to Old Town restaurants and best coffee shops. For pubs across the whole of Swindon, see best pubs in Swindon.

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Information correct as of February 2026. Opening hours and menus can change. Check each pub's website or Google listing before visiting.