The Tawny Owl Takes Off with New Management and Exciting Upgrades 20/03/2025

The Tawny Owl in Swindon has new managers at the helm, as husband-and-wife team Deanna and Danny Paul have officially taken over at the popular Arkell’s pub. The couple are already familiar faces, having worked in a variety of roles at The Kingsdown Inn and The Tawny Owl, including serving as assistant managers under former manager Nic.

Their appointment makes The Tawny Owl a true family affair, with their daughter Chelsea also part of the team. Together, they’re looking forward to welcoming guests old and new while showcasing the exciting improvements recently made to the pub.

Sitting proudly in the heart of the Taw Hill community, The Tawny Owl has long been a favourite local pub, offering everything you’d expect from a modern venue: delicious home-cooked food, real ales and premium lagers always on tap, regular live music, quiz nights, pub sports, a function room, en-suite accommodation, an electric car charging point, and free WiFi. Now, with a new management team and significant upgrades, there’s even more to enjoy!

Their arrival comes at a fantastic time, following a major investment from Arkell’s Brewery. The Tawny Owl has been given a fresh new look with a repainted exterior, a refurbished car park, upgraded outdoor lighting and signage, and brand-new furniture inside and out. Most notably, Arkell’s has invested over £60,000 in a brand-new children’s play area, making the pub even more family-friendly for the Swindon community. Deanna and Danny are eager to build on the pub’s reputation as a welcoming local hub.

For Danny, running a pub has been a lifelong dream, and now that their children are grown, he and Deanna feel this is the right time to take this next step together. During their time as assistant managers they’ve built strong relationships with the local community, making their transition into management a natural fit.

George Arkell, Danny & Deanna Paul, & Julie Moss

“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.”

George Arkell, Managing Director of Arkell’s Brewery, shared his enthusiasm for the new management:

“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, also shared her thoughts on their appointment:

“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.”

With all these exciting changes, Deanna and Danny are eager to welcome both familiar faces and new visitors to experience everything The Tawny Owl has to offer.

The brand-new play area is ready to enjoy now, but will be 'officially' opened on Easter Monday, 12-4 PM, with a special event featuring a BBQ, disco, Easter egg hunt, and guest characters.

For more information, visit The Tawny Owl’s website via the link below.

The Tawny Owl's brand-new children's play area

The Tawny Owl, North Swindon

> Tawny Owl - website

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