A swan pit is a water-filled enclosure where swans were fattened and eventually killed for human consumption.New York Times article Retrieved 16 November 2010
History From the medieval period swans were kept in ponds and were a source of income and made acceptable gifts.Phillips, E. A Short History of the Great Hospital. 1999. pp 35.36. Jarrolds Selected wild cygnets had their wings clipped and bills cut into a distinctive pattern bearing the owner's mark.
An example of a swan pit can be found within the grounds of the Great Hospital, Norwich. The Grade II listedBritish listed buildings Retrieved 19 November 2010 tidal pool was built in the 18th century and is fed with water from the adjacent River Wensum.
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The Great Hospital, Norwich. Swan Pit photo