There are few people in Swindon who can say they’ve poured as many pints or created as many memories as John Honeyman. This week, the well‑known landlord marked an incredible 25 years in charge of The Swiss Chalet in Gorse Hill – and Arkell’s Brewery came along to raise a glass with him.
John’s story behind the bar began back in 1992 at The Liden, not far from his home at the time. He soon found himself running more than one pub and covering relief work across Arkell’s estate. A brief step away from the industry into a sales role followed, but the pull of the pub was too strong.
“I asked the Tied Trade Director back then to keep me in mind,” John says. “Then Margaret Leech got in touch, saying I’d suit The Swiss Chalet perfectly. She wasn’t wrong. I’ve loved it from day one.”
Originally built in the 1960s as the new Carpenters Arms, the pub was later refurbished and renamed The Swiss Chalet. Under John’s watch, it has become much more than a place for a drink. It is a heartbeat of the local community, home to the Swindon Youth Darts League and the scene of countless fundraising events that have seen over £200,000 donated to charities.
“I don’t want to retire,” John says with a smile. “Reaching 25 years was always my goal and I’m proud to have done it. People are often surprised because I was the quiet lad at school, but I found my place behind a bar. This isn’t just a job – it’s my life.”
Times have changed, as John notes, with customer habits shifting over the decades, but his pride in The Swiss Chalet and those who drink there has never faded.
James Arkell, Chairman of Arkell’s Brewery, joined directors and family members to celebrate with John, saying:
“It’s something special to see 25 years behind the bar. John is exactly the sort of landlord who makes a pub what it is. With all the pressures on the trade, someone staying in post and still enjoying it deserves recognition.”
With that, John raised a glass with the brewery team, surrounded by his regulars and friends, showing why The Swiss Chalet remains such a cherished corner of Gorse Hill.
