Former Toot and Whistle pub in Toothill is now a community hub

Swindon24 published a report on Friday 16 October 2026 from inside The Hub @ Toothill, the community venue that opened on 19 July 2026 in the old pub at Toothill Village Centre, Dunwich Drive, SN5 8SX.

What is there now?

The building has a café, a bar, meeting rooms upstairs in the former living quarters, and a large function room that director Kareen Boyd estimates could hold around 80 people. It runs as a café in the day, with the bar opening from 4pm. The original Toot and Whistle sign has been restored behind the bar.

Activities so far include bingo, quizzes, craft fairs and a weekly "chatty table" for people who want company. Birthday parties, children's celebrations and a wake have been held.

Anyone can use it. "You don't need to be a member or show your address or anything like that to be able to come in," Ms Boyd said.

How did it happen?

• 1981: the pub opened as the Toot and Whistle. It later became the Village Tavern.
• 2010: Toothill was chosen for National Lottery money through the Big Local programme. Local Trust figures show £1,209,500 was allocated, with about 76% going to the hub.
• 2018: The Hub @ Toothill Community Interest Company was set up.
• 2019: the pub closed, and the building was secured on a 62-year lease from Swindon Borough Council.

The pandemic, rising building costs and problems with building work delayed the project. "Unfortunately, we had the builder let us down at the end, and we incurred legal costs," Ms Boyd said.

What is next?

The priorities are the outdoor space and support for more staff. West Swindon Parish Council has given grants and looks after the green space around the building.

More from Swindo: Toothill.

Source: Swindon24.