A well-loved Swindon pub is entering a new era as The Tawny Owl welcomes fresh management and a host of exciting upgrades. Husband-and-wife duo Deanna and Danny Paul have officially taken the reins, bringing a wealth of experience and a strong connection to the local community.
Having worked at both The Kingsdown Inn and The Tawny Owl in a variety of roles, including assistant managers, Deanna and Danny are no strangers to the pub’s operations. Their appointment also makes The Tawny Owl a true family affair, with their daughter Chelsea joining them as part of the team.
Their takeover comes at a fantastic time, following a major investment from Arkell’s Brewery. The popular Taw Hill venue has undergone a series of enhancements, including a freshly painted exterior, a revamped car park, improved outdoor lighting, updated signage, and brand-new furniture inside and out.
One of the biggest transformations is the brand-new children’s play area, a £60,000 investment aimed at making the pub even more welcoming for families. The new space is set to be a game-changer for parents looking for a relaxed dining experience while their children enjoy a safe and engaging play space.
A Dream Come True
For Danny, running a pub has been a long-held ambition, and now that their children are grown, both he and Deanna feel the timing is perfect for this next chapter. Having built strong ties with regulars and the wider community, they’re looking forward to enhancing The Tawny Owl’s reputation as a friendly and welcoming hub for all.
“We’re absolutely delighted to be taking on The Tawny Owl,” said Deanna. “This pub is such a special place, and with all the fantastic improvements, it’s a great time to invite everyone in to experience what The Tawny has to offer.”
Arkell’s Brewery has also thrown its full support behind the couple. George Arkell, Managing Director, expressed his enthusiasm for the transition: “We love to see growth within our teams, so we are thrilled that after nine years, Deanna has now been promoted to manager of The Tawny Owl. And what a great time to be taking over, as we’ve just completed our biggest children’s play area yet!”
Julie Moss, Arkell’s Managed House Controller, echoed the sentiment, praising the couple’s passion for hospitality: “Deanna and Danny truly care about people. They’re passionate about great hospitality, love their customers, and have a real soft spot for children and families. That, combined with their experience within Arkell’s, makes them the perfect fit to take The Tawny Owl forward, and I know they’ll make it a fantastic place for everyone to enjoy.”
Grand Opening of the New Play Area
To celebrate the new play area, The Tawny Owl will host a special launch event on Easter Monday, 12-4 PM. Families can look forward to a BBQ, disco, Easter egg hunt, and some special guest characters making an appearance. It’s set to be a fantastic day out for all ages.
For more details, visit The Tawny Owl’s website at www.thetawnyowl.co.uk.
