At the corner of Store and Pandora Streets in Victoria’s Old Town, you’ll find historic Swans Pub—an institution as colourful and character-filled as the man who built it: Michael Williams.
Williams wasn’t just a real estate developer; he was also a preservationist, an art collector, and above all, a visionary. In an era when others were tearing down Victoria’s historic buildings, he was buying them up, restoring them, and giving them new life. One of his most lasting contributions to the city is Swans Hotel and Pub, which opened in 1989 inside a former grain warehouse which dated back to the early 1900s.
Where others saw decay, Williams saw potential; and upon completion, Swans Hotel and Brewpub became one of B.C.’s earliest craft beer destinations. Inspired by its warehouse origins, the pub has exposed wooden beams and brick walls that effortlessly transport its guests back to the early 1900s. The eclectic décor includes antiques like granary wheels and vintage bicycles (and from William’s private collection, a portrait of his friend Pierre Elliott Trudeau), all coming together to make Swans warm and welcoming for guests.
One especially quirky artifact–a Kawasaki 250 motorcycle–is also on display. Legend says Williams famously rode it just one time only before deciding it was too dangerous on an activity for him. Discovered after his death in 2000, the near-mint condition bike (with 58 original miles on it) now hangs from the pub ceiling for the rest of us to enjoy.
With the growth of the craft brewery market in Victoria (20 and counting!) Swans decided to shut down the original brewery in 2024, and focus on featuring local brews in their already established vibrant and fun gathering spot. Today they pour Victorian craft brews like Hoyne, Driftwood, and Phillips, and serves pub fare that honours the region. Hidden Victoria Bites & Sites tour guests all rave that Swans West Coast Smoked Fish Dip (served with Jenny Marie’s Vegan Crackers) as a favourite part of their tour experience.
In short, Swans isn’t just a place for food and drink; it’s also a tribute to a man who didn’t just dream of a better Victoria; he built one, brick by brick, and libation by libation. So next time you’re wandering past the corner of Store and Pandora, step into Swans and look up at the Kawasaki. Find the Trudeau portrait. Check out the vintage bicycles. Order some food and beverage that’s both delicious and local.
And upon leaving, don’t forget to head to the grassy knoll in front of Market Square just one block over. There you'll find a bronze statue of Michael Williams seated on a bench, glass of red wine in hand, quietly gazing at the pub he built. It’s fitting tribute to a man who gave this city more than updated buildings and a pub...
He gave it soul.
For more information on Swans Pub, please click HERE
For more information on Jenny Marie’s Vegan Crackers, please click HERE