Swansea.
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Overview

This article is about the urban area of Swansea. Rural Swansea is covered in a separate article.

Swansea (pronounced: Swan-zee; Welsh: Abertawe) is a city on the beautiful Gower Peninsula — the United Kingdom's first designated "Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty". . It is the second largest city in Wales and is known for its Blue Flag beaches and stunning coastal walks.

Districts

Swansea Urban (this article) — from north to south covering areas from Morriston and Clydach to St. Thomas and Swansea Bay sea front and from east to west covering areas from Port Tennant to Caswell. Swansea Urban includes the city centre and the tourist areas of the Maritime Quarter, Mumbles, Limeslade, Langland and Caswell. Gower Peninsula — covering all points west of Bishopston, Pwll Du Bay, Fairwood Common and Upper Killay, and also including the highland areas of Pontarddulais and Mawr.

Understand

History During medieval times, Swansea was a prosperous market town and later gained some prominence as a spa resort. However, the city saw significant growth during the Industrial Revolution, when its population expanded. Swansea is home to the world's first passenger railway service, the Mumbles Train, which ran along five miles of the foreshore, connecting the city centre with Mumbles. Much of Swansea’s architectural heritage was lost due to wartime bombing, but its parks, coastal scenery, waterfront suburbs, maritime quarter, cultural events, medieval castles, and beaches have maintained its status as a major tourist destination.

Surveys have ranked Swansea as the most relaxed city in the UK, the third friendliest regarding customer service, and the safest urban area in the country.

The name ‘Swansea’ comes from the Old Norse ‘Sweyn’s ey,’ meaning Sweyn’s island, reflecting its Scandinavian settlement in the Middle Ages. Its Welsh name, Abertawe, means ‘mouth of the river Tawe.’ Locals are called Swansea Jacks, named after a dog who saved 27 people from drowning in the 1930s; his memorial stands on the Brynmill promenade near the university.

Writer Dylan Thomas was passionate about Swansea. He first described it as an “ugly, lovely town,” later calling it “the most romantic town I know” and celebrating it as a “city of laughter” and a “little Dublin.”

Incidentally, the Swansea seaside resort of Mumbles derives its name from the French word mamelles, meaning "breasts"; take a look at the two islets off Mumbles Head from across the bay, and it is easy to see why.

Swansea has a wet and mild climate, with winter temperatures ranging from around 4 to 6°C, while the summer average high is about 20°C but often reaching to 26 or 27°C. Sun lovers should visit Swansea from June to August, which is the period that records the most hours of sunshine and is the main tourist season. However, those who prefer long solitary walks along cliffs paths or contemplative strolls through wooded valleys should consider September and October. During these months, the air is crisp and fresh and the area quiet, with most tourists having already departed. However, as Wales is one of the wettest areas in the UK, you should always prepare for rain when visiting the region. Even in the summer, pack some rain gear and an umbrella in your luggage.

City centre tourist information. Offers free maps, information on tourist sites and hotel room reservation service.

Mumbles tourist information. Offers same services as the main city centre office.

Talk

Although it definitely has character, Swansea dialect (especially from east-side) can be hard to understand for the uninitiated.

The following usages are to be heard in Swansea:

bye-yer = here (example: "Put it bye-yer" means "Put it here.") ewe = you (example: "Alright, arr ewe?" means "Are you OK?") likes = like, (example: "I likes it" means "I like it") now = often used as an affirmative, not be taken literally (example: "I'll come over now later" just means "I'll come over later.") tidy = not to be mistaken as a command to clear up something, but a statement of approval, meaning "I agree" or "that is acceptable". fair dues = to give someone credit (example: "He is not rich, but fair dues he's always happy to lend money to his friends." means "He is not rich, but give him credit. He's always happy to lend money to his friends.") there's = that's, how or what (example: "There's lovely" means "That's beautiful" or "How nice", whereas "There's a mess!" would in more standard English be expressed as "What a mess!") butt/butty = friend/buddy. (example: "How're you doing, butt?" means "How are you doing, mate/friend?") mun = used at the end of a statement for emphasis purposes (example: "Hurry up, mun, or we'll be late"). cowin' lush = not to confused with a fertile plain for herbivores, but a statement akin to approval (example: "That curry I 'ad last night was cowin' lush mun". Evening Po = an abbreviated term for Evening Post (the Swansea evening newspaper) called out by road side vendors. In addition, there is a tendency for those with a strong accent to speak in the third person. So if someone walks up to you and says, "eye nose ewe", don't be surprised. They are merely expressing the fact that they recognize you (i.e. "I know you")!

The Swansea accent is more noticeable in blue collar areas of the city, whereas in more affluent areas people speak with a more refined Welsh accent. However, even in these areas Wenglish phrases like "Uch a fi!" (dirty) can still be heard.

About 16% of Swansea's population can speak and read Welsh in addition to English, though the majority of these are residents of the northern suburbs (i.e. those closest to the counties of Powys and Carmarthenshire). People from the original town of Swansea, east-side, Mumbles and South Gower were not traditionally Welsh speaking, and so there are far fewer Welsh speakers in these areas.

Get in

The M4 motorway links the city to Cardiff and London, with connections to the M6, M5, M32, M42 and M50. The main junction for Swansea is 42, but 43, 44, 45, 46 and 47 also lead off into Swansea

National Express. Runs frequent bus services from Cardiff, London, the Midlands, and Heathrow Airport. All buses depart and arrive at the city's bus station. The National Express ticket office is next to the bus station.

A convenient way to spend the day in Swansea city centre is to use one of the three Park and Ride systems National Park and Ride Directory. One is based at Landore on the A4067; leave M4 at junction 45. The eastern 'Park and Ride' operates off the A483 (Fabian Way), which is the main artery into Swansea when coming off the M4 (junction 42) from the east buses on this route follow an express bus lane into the city centre. The western 'Park and Ride' operates off the A483 (Carmarthen Road) in Fforestfach.

By plane Heathrow Airport has daily arrivals from the widest number of places around the world to the UK. By rail, take the RailAir coach service from Heathrow Central Bus station and change at Reading Railway Station for trains direct to Swansea. By Coach, National Express provide a coach service from Heathrow Central Bus station to Swansea. Cardiff Airport , approximately 50 minutes drive to Swansea. There are arrivals from various places in Europe. By rail, take the train from Rhoose Cardiff International Airport Railway station and change at Bridgend.

Transport for Wales runs local trains throughout Wales including the West Wales lines with services to Pembroke, Milford Haven and Fishguard. West Wales services, west of Swansea. After leaving Swansea, the train follows the contours of the coast. A left-side seat will give you the best view: The famous Heart of Wales Line runs between the medieval town of Shrewsbury and Swansea, passing through some of Wales' most spectacular scenery and picturesque towns during its 3 hr 40 min journey. Trains depart Swansea at 4:36AM, 9:15AM, 1:17PM and 6:21PM. There are direct trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Swansea operating hourly during the daytime M-Sa, and every two hours during the daytime on Sundays. The journey time is about 4 hours 20 minutes. This service calls at Crewe, Shrewsbury, Hereford, Newport and Cardiff.

Airport connections Travellers arriving from Heathrow Airport have the option of taking the shuttle bus to Reading and boarding the westbound train there — this saves travelling into London — or taking the Heathrow Express high-speed rail link to London Paddington station.

Travellers arriving from Cardiff Airport can take a train to Swansea. However, this requires a change at Bridgend. Services are provided by Arriva Trains.

National Cycle Route 4. Swansea is served by the NCR 4 which passes just south of the city centre. To the east, NCR 4 connects Swansea with Port Talbot, Newport and London. To the west, NCR 4 connects Swansea with Llanelli and St David's. From the east, NCR 4 follows the route of the A483 (Fabian Way), it then follows the route of the seafront promenade of Swansea Bay Beach and at Blackpill it continues up the Clyne Valley cycle track towards Gowerton.

National Cycle Route 43. NCR 43 is still under development and will eventually connect Swansea with Builth Wells. Part of the route wholly within Swansea has been completed and signposted. The completed signposted section of NCR 43 begins at the Swansea Marina and follows the route of the River Tawe all the way to Ystalyfera, passing Pontardawe.

National Cycle Route 47. NCR47 connects Newport with Fishguard. Within Swansea, NCR47 follows the same route as NCR4. Whilst NCR4 is a more coastal route, NCR47 is a mostly inland route.

Get around

By bus Bus company First Cymru maintain frequent services connecting all suburbs of Swansea and the Gower Peninsula. All buses depart from the bus station, and there are connecting links to/from Swansea's railway station. Visitors travelling to the Mumbles have the option of taking buses heading to these final destinations: Oystermouth (synonymous with Mumbles and the final stop is in the village), Limeslade (includes stops at Mumbles Square, Verdi's Cafe and Mumbles Pier), Langland, Newton and Caswell. All buses on these routes also make stops at St. Helen's Stadium, Swansea University/Singleton Park and Blackpill Lido.

Adventure Travel is another bus operator in the area.

First Cymru will never charge you more than a day ticket. Adventure Travel also has this feature, however it does not yet integrate with First Cymru's system.

By taxi There are several taxi ranks in the city centre. One is found at High Street Station for rail connections and one is at Swansea Bus Station for bus/coach connections. A taxi rank beside St. Mary's church serves city centre shoppers. The taxi rank on Caer Street next to Castle Square is the most convenient for people returning home after a night out on Wind Street.

Uber now operates in Swansea and the wider operator, and is reasonably reliable.

See

Swansea Castle. The ruins of this 13th-century castle are in the city centre. While the remains are not substantial enough to warrant a special visit, the contrast of the battlements against the more contemporary architecture of its surroundings does provide an interesting backdrop for souvenir photographs of Swansea city centre. The building is floodlit at night.

The Guildhall. This elegant building of white Portland stone has graced the city centre's western approach since 1934. The main building only houses administrative offices and is of no interest to the casual visitor. However, Sir Frank Brangwyn's murals (painted for the House of Lords, but considered too frivolous) that grace the interior of the Brangwyn Hall are definitely worth viewing. The Brangwyn Hall is on the sea-facing side of the building and functions as the city's main concert and reception hall.

Arthur's Stone. A neolithic burial chamber or cromlech dating from 2500BCE.

Dylan Thomas' Childhood Home. Uplands. Restored to reflect the environment of Dylan's youth, Number Five Cwmdonkin Drive is open as a self-catering guest house, and is suitable for budding writers.

Oystermouth Castle. Mumbles. The castle was founded in the early 12th century by William de Londres of Ogmore and was constructed of ringwork and bailey. In the 13th century, the castle was the principal residence of the de Braoses, the lords of Gower (their other main residence was Swansea Castle), and most of the structure remaining today originates from this period. King Edward I visited the castle in December 1284. The present day remains are well preserved and the battlements offer commanding views over Swansea Bay. There is a small entry fee.

Mumbles Pier. Mumbles. Built in the 1880s to encourage more passengers to use the Mumbles Train, the pier is an edifice to the Victorians' love of the ocean. Compared to many piers around the country, Mumbles is quite simple in design, but the 255-m walk from beginning to end allows for spectacular views over Swansea Bay. In particular, Oystermouth Castle and the high rise buildings of the city centre are in clear view.

Historical buildings. Much of Swansea city centre was destroyed in wartime bombing. Still, there are large pockets of the historic centre that survived, and they have been painstakingly restored. Some of the best examples of Georgian and Victorian architecture can be found on Wind Street (pronounced Wined), with Salubrious Passage (linking Wind Street with Princess Way) being almost exclusively Georgian, though the accolade for oldest buildings in that area goes to Swansea Castle and the Cross Keys (inn), which are respectively relics of the 13th and 14th centuries. At the bottom end of Wind Street and across the main thoroughfare leading from the M4 into Swansea are several lovely Georgian terraces, with Somerset Place and Cambrian Place perhaps being the most stylish. The Dylan Thomas Centre on Somerset Place also represents a fine example of Doric style Georgian architecture, and the area (which leads onto the marina) also has an impressive mixture of Victorian and Edwardian buildings, such as the colonnaded neo-classical style Swansea Museum (1841) and Morgan's Hotel (1903). Across town, Alexandra Road offers some fine examples of baroque revival Edwardian architecture, with the Glynn Vivian Art Gallery acting as the focal point. British visitors may immediately recognize some of Swansea's historic streets as they have been featured in the popular TV series Doctor Who.

Attic Gallery. Wales' oldest independent gallery, specialising in grass roots Welsh art.

Egypt Centre. The Swansea University campus (near the Taliesin Art Centre). One of the UK's best collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts outside London.

Dylan Thomas Centre. This splendid example of early 19th-century Doric style architecture served as Swansea Guildhall for over 100 years. It became the Dylan Thomas Centre in 1995 when it was refurbished in commemoration of Swansea hosting the 1995 UK Year of Literature and Writing, and was opened by former US President Jimmy Carter. The centre is dedicated to the works of Swansea's greatest literary son, and in addition to a theatre, exhibition and events hall, the centre also has a second hand book store and gift shop. The local cuisine served in the second floor restaurant is strongly recommended.

Elysium Gallery and Studios. A large and innovative space promoting the work of emerging artists. Cafe. Gallery. Studios.

Glyn Vivian Art Gallery. The gallery housed in a baroque revival Edwardian building has permanent exhibits of paintings by local artists and a good collection of Swansea china. It frequently hosts exhibitions of national and international works of art.

Gower Heritage Centre. A rural life museum based around a working water mill. Gift shop and café on site.

National Waterfront Museum. Housed in a building clad in Welsh slate, the National Waterfront Museum represents an exciting and innovative way to explore the development of the industrial revolution through the eyes of the people whose lives it touched and transformed. The toil, the achievements, the defeats and the joys are revealed through the museum's creative exhibitions. Children will particularly enjoy the working machinery. There are also cafes and gift shops overlooking the marina. This is one of the UK's most imaginative exhibition spaces and must-see destinations.

Mission Gallery. A small independent gallery in a converted seaman's chapel.

The Nick Holly Studio Gallery. Exchange Building, Cambrian Place, Maritime Quarter. Showcases the work of local artists.

Swansea Bus Museum. An exhibit of over thirty buses that once plied the streets of Swansea and West Wales.

Swansea Museum. This grade two, neo-classic building was Wales' first museum, and displays artifacts as diverse as Swansea china and an Egyptian mummy. The museum gift shop sells good quality souvenirs.

Mumbles. A former fishing village at the western end of Swansea Bay the quaint streets, a 12th-century castle, fashionable boutiques and excellent restaurants make this suburb of Swansea a must-see destination. The promenade at Mumbles offers a spectacular panoramic view over Swansea Bay, and Village Lane (behind Patrick's restaurant) is a street of picture postcard fisherman's cottages.

The Gower Peninsula: the first area in Britain to be designated an "area of outstanding natural beauty". Its stunning scenery extends from sandy beaches, to hidden coves and lush country-side. In addition, (including the ruins of Swansea castle) there are seven medieval castles to explore. Home to Oxwich Bay, named the most beautiful beach in the UK and one of the most beautiful in the world by The Travel Magazine in 2007. The Maritime Quarter: a bay-side development. The swinging masts and sails of the three marinas offer a great backdrop to the theatres, museums, hotels, cafes, bars and restaurants that jostle for positions in this tight little corner off the city centre. The south-side faces the sea, where there are great views over Swansea Bay and the Mumbles Head.

Plantasia. Parc Tawe. A chisel-shaped hot house in the city centre, complete with three different climate zones and exotic animals.

Singleton Park. Swansea's largest park meandering over several acres of gentle undulating hills and leading down to Swansea Bay botanical gardens near the Sketty end of the park, and Swansea University at the lower end, near the sea front. The main entrance to the park is on Mumbles Road, just past the St. Helen's Stadium.

Clyne Gardens and Country Park. No doubt the gem in the crown of Swansea parks. Begun as a private garden, Clyne is bursting with flora and fauna meticulously collected from around the world. It has an internationally recognised collection of rhododendrons and azaleas which are at their spectacular best in May. The Japanese style pond, complete with willow trees and oriental bridge is a great place to relax and watch the clouds sail by. Entrance behind the Woodman pub on Mumbles Road at Blackpill.

Cwmdonkin Park. In the Uplands. A classic Victorian park that was a favourite with Dylan Thomas, and several of his works were inspired here.

Brynmill Park. Swansea's oldest park, in Dylan's Uplands famous for its large swan lake.

Lake Fendrod. In the heart of the Swansea Enterprise Park. It has a large population of swans and is stocked with a range of fishes like carp to 20 lb, skimmers to bream of 8 lb, tench to 6 lbs, roach to 2 lb together with crucian carp, dace, orfe, perch & rudd. There are about 75 pegs, some of which are concreted. Lake Fendrod is surrounded by a public footpath.

Swansea Vale Nature Reserve. At the far north eastern end of the Enterprise Park. It is one of the few remaining places of wetland in Swansea and features streams, ponds and woodland. The nature reserve is accessible by bike or on foot and features a board walk and bike paths

Kilvey Community Woodland. The south side of the woodland offers panoramic views of Swansea Bay right over to Mumbles Head and Port Talbot and also the city centre and docks, while the western face of the hill allows uninhibited views of the lower Swansea Valley, the northern part of the city centre, the Enterprise Zone and the Liberty Stadium. In addition, the hill has a sculpture trail, a number of footpaths and some dedicated white knuckle mountain biking trails.

View over the city and Swansea Bay. One of the best locations to gain a panoramic view of the city and the full sweep of Swansea Bay is from Pant-y-Celyn Road in Townhill (near the Townhill Campus of Swansea Metropolitan University). There are bay-facing parking areas along the road that allow the stunning views to be enjoyed from the comfort of your car. The scene is especially spectacular at dusk with the sun setting over Mumbles Head. For the adventurous and those possessing cars with strong brakes, return to the city centre via the 1-in-3 incline of the cobbled street of Constitution Hill.

Blackpill Beach. Blackpill Beach and the Blackpill Stream which flows into it are a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. Many types of gulls can be seen feeding there at high tide.

Crymlyn Bog. Crymlyn bog is the largest area of lowland fen in Wales to the east of Swansea City Centre. It is a Ramsar site, a Special Site of Scientific interest and a protected National Nature Reserve. There is a visitor centre with car parking.

Swansea beach. A 5-mile (8-km) stretch of beach from Swansea Docks all the way to Mumbles with a cycle way and promenade along its whole length.

Do

Swansea Indoor Bowls Stadium. An international standard indoor bowling stadium which hosts the Welsh International Open, part of the annual World Bowls Tour. The stadium features 6 bowling rinks with a function room and a bar.

Sanghapadipa Temple. A temple in the Thai Theravadan tradition. The resident monks hold regular meditation gatherings and offer instruction in meditation.

Swansea Bay Rider. A colourful children's land train runs throughout the summer along the promenade from the St. Helen's Stadium to Southend Gardens, Mumbles.

Rowing and crazy golf. A boating lake and crazy golf course between the junction of Sketty Lane and Mumbles Road and the entrance to Swansea University.

Discovery Centre. The centre offers the opportunity for children to observe and gain first hand knowledge about local wildlife and nature.

The LC. A state-of-the-art leisure centre. See 'Swimming' section for more details.

Waverley Excursions. The historic ship MV Balmoral runs day trips to Ilfracombe in North Devon and cruises around the Gower coast in summer only. The paddle steamer Waverley runs similar trips, but less frequently. Certain journeys continue on to Lundy Island.

Euphoria Sailing Ltd. Motor boat and yacht cruises around the Gower coast starting from Swansea Marina or Oxwich Bay.

Gower Coast Adventures. Offers trips around the Gower coast for up to 12 people on their ten-metre sea serpent cruise boat.

Cycling Swansea is connected to the National Celtic Cycling Trail, and there are four main routes in city.

The Jersey Marine and Fabian Way Trail. Traces the main road into the city centre from the east few special sites of interest, it passes the Jersey Marine Tower and offers views of the heavy industrial plants in Baglan Bay and Port Talbot.

The River Tawe Trail. Runs along the banks of the river Tawe passing through a former industrial area that has been reforested, skirts the Liberty Stadium, a business district and finally heads out to the Swansea Valley.

The Promenade Trail. Runs along Swansea Bay foreshore to the sea-side suburb of Mumbles it passes through the Marina and offers stunning views over Swansea Bay. On a sunny day, with the blue water lapping at the side of the promenade, cycling along this trail must be the nearest thing to poetry in motion.

The Clyne Valley Trail. Runs through Clyne Country Park to the North Gower coast, where it rejoins the National Celtic Cycle Trail the first part of the trail passes through a forested area, then meanders through sprawling suburbs before reaching the Loughor Estuary near Loughor. This trail leads from the Promenade Trail at Blackpill (a child's paddling area marks the site). Mountain bike trails are on the sides of the valley.

Mountain biking. Kilvey Hill has a dedicated downhill run and several other trails for the mountain bike enthusiast.

Bikes can be rented at the following city centre stores:

Action Bike. Will deliver bike to hotel free of charge.

Driving There are some wonderfully picturesque drives in Swansea. Below are a couple of popular ones:

City centre - Mayals - Bishopston - Caswell Bay - Langland Bay - Bracelet Bay - Limeslade Bay- Mumbles - city centre.

To start this drive, take the A4067 Mumbles Road from the city centre and turn right onto B4436 Mayals Road. Follow road over Fairwood Common and take a left at Bishopston Village. From there, follow signs for the above places.

This drive takes in some beautiful coastal scenery. Recommended stops: Verdis café (Mumbles, Swansea Bay sea front), Castellamare café (Bracelet Bay sea front), and Mumbles Village (see listing under 'See').

City centre - Uplands - Killay - Parkmill - Reynolston - Rhossili - Llangeneth - Oldwalls - Killay - Uplands - city centre.

To start this drive, take A4118 through the bed-sit suburb of Uplands and then Killay. Finally, after leaving Upper Killay, the road passes through the heart of the Gower Peninsular. Follow signs for the above places.

This drive passes through some quintessential British countryside and culminates at stunning Rhossili Bay. Recommended stops: Parkmill is the location of the Gower Heritage Centre, with its working water wheel, and Shepards' village store and café is a good place to take refreshment. Near the village of Reynolston, you can take a short detour onto Cefn Bryn to see Arthur's Stone (see listing under 'See'). Also, in Reynolston is the beautifully renovated country inn, 'the King Arthur's Hotel', which is an excellent place for lunch. At Rhossili, there are tea houses, but the attraction here is definitely the stunning views.

As you drive along the beautiful country lanes with the smell of freshly cut grass pervading the air and the vista of a wide blue bay opening before you, the words of a famous Buddhist master — 'the journey is the goal' — will never ring truer!

Swansea Bay Summer Festival. The umbrella term for a number of events occurring in the Swansea Bay area from May to September. Only the main festivals are listed below. For other events, check the official website.

Swansea Pride. LGBTQ event, procession.

Gower Folk Festival. Weobley Castle Farm, north Gower.

Gower Festival. Live music performances at various venues across the peninsular.

World Triathlon Para Series and Ironman 70.3. Triathlon events

Wales National Airshow. Spectacular flying displays which often include the Red Arrows. After dark shows with drones and pyrotechnic aircraft.

N-Trance. Outdoor rock concert, Various artists.

Swansea International Jazz Festival. ten jazz concerts.

Swansea Fringe Festival. Music, magic, live performances at a number of venues throughout the city centre

Dylan Thomas Festival. The Dylan Thomas Centre held annually between 27 Oct and 9 Nov. During these two weeks, the centre built to commemorate the works of Thomas reverberates to the sound of his poems and plays. This is a must see event for fans of the bard. In addition, the festival hosts the awards' ceremony for the winner of the Dylan Thomas Prize a biannual writing competition for most outstanding literary talent in English, aged under 30.

Do Not Go Gentle Festival. A festival of music and words.

Waterfront Wonderland. This event held next to the National Waterfront Museum includes stalls selling traditional Christmas goods, a big wheel offering views over Swansea Bay and an ice rink.

Gower Flight Centre. See and the Gower Peninsula from the air. Flights from Swansea Airport.

Golf Swansea has a number of excellent golf courses, many with spectacular sea views:

Clyne Golf Club. Mayals. 6323-yard, 18-hole course built on moorland, par 70 sss72

Fairwood Park Golf Club. 6,658-yard, 18-hole parkland championship course

Morriston Golf Club. Morriston. 5708-yard, 18-hole course

Pennard Golf Club. Southgate. 6,225-yard, 18-hole, par 71 links golf course

Live music Bars and cafés that provide life music:

Albert Hall. Live music venue in grade 2 listed building. Wide range or restaurants, bars, and cafes.

Creature Sound. Primarily a recording studio, but also hosts events and supports the local homeless community.

Jam Jar. Live music and events. Serves coffee, alcohol and meals

Milkwoodjam. Live music venue, café/bar and recording studio.

No Sign Bar. A watering hole that dates to the 18th century with a relaxed atmosphere and good food. Generally an over-40 crowd.

Swansea Jazzland. St. James Social Club, St. James Crescent, Uplands. Jazz, jazz and more jazz

Taliesin Arts Centre. Swansea University. Music from around the globe, including high-profile jazz artists and other musicians of international acclaim.

The Bunkhouse. One of the largest live music watering holes in Swansea. Large range of local ales.

The Garage. Hip-hop, metal, rock and stand-up comedy.

Uplands Tavern. Rock and folk, attracts student crowd.

Dryad Brushcraft. Offers unique wilderness survival courses at various locations on the Gower.

Cinema.co. Screening of art and indie movies. Discussion after screening.

Odeon. Multi-screen cinemas screening blockbusters.

Taliesin. Screens quality mainstream, independent movies.

Vue. Multi-screen cinemas screening blockbusters.

Breakout Swansea. Participants solve puzzles to escape from a room.

Sports Cricket: Swansea is one of the home locations of Glamorgan County Cricket Club, one of the 18 "first class" county clubs that make up the English and Welsh domestic cricket league. Glamorgan play at St Helen's Stadium. Football: Swansea City ('the Swans') play soccer in the Championship, the second tier for England and Wales. Their home ground (capacity 21,000) is the Swansea.com Stadium in Landore / Plasmarl SA1 2FA, a mile north of city centre. Rugby Union: Ospreys are a profession team playing in United Rugby Championship (formerly Pro-14), the predominantly Celtic super-league. Their home ground is St Helen's Stadium. Swansea RFC (the "All Whites") play in Super Rygbi Cymru, the amateur top tier in Wales, also at St Helen's Stadium.

Swansea Bay Rally. A major event in the UK rally calendar. Held annually in summer at locations near Swansea.

Swimming Many of the bays on the Gower Peninsular are great for swimming. However, the most popular are the sandy bays of Langland and Caswell. Both these beaches are under seasonal lifeguard supervision, offer changing and toilet facilities and are in easy reach of the city centre.

Welsh National Pool. Sketty Lane (near the university). Serious swimmers will enjoy the waters of this Olympic-size pool.

The LC. Maritime Quarter. A cutting edge leisure complex that includes a wave making machine, hydro-slide, artificial beach, children's paddling area, Europe's only indoor surfing centre and the world's first uphill water slide. LC offers an excellent rainy-day alternative to a day at the beach.

Swansea Tenpin Bowling. Tenpin is next to an Odeon multiplex. It features 26 tenpin bowling lanes and an amusement arcade, two pool tables, a Wimpy burger bar and a drinks bar.

Grand Theatre. Swansea's largest theatre, with everything from pantomime to opera.

Brangwyn Hall. The Guildhall complex, Victoria Park. With its stunning British Empire Panels, commissioned for the British House of Lords, this grandiose concert hall is the focus for the annual Swansea Festival of Music and the Arts, the second largest such festival in the UK.

Dylan Thomas Centre. The Maritime Quarter. Specialising in plays produced by the bard.

Dylan Thomas Theatre. The Maritime Quarter. Home to the Swansea Little Theatre group, where Dylan Thomas was an actor/member as was Catherine Zeta Jones.

South Wales Evening Post Theatre. The theatre is part of a so-called creative hub based in the Urban Village.

Swansea Arena. A state-of-the-art concert and conference venue. Offers a variety of events. Bar and cafe on site.

Taliesin Arts Centre. The University Campus, Singleton Park. This lively venue hosts a broad programme of events including cinema screenings, an average of ten visiting exhibitions per year, and a great variety of live performances, from dance and drama to jazz and world music. The emphasis at Taliesin is on quality and innovation.

Volcano Theatre. An innovative theatre group, performing original and bold work.

Swansea Environment Centre. The centre organises volunteer environmental work in the area; a great opportunity to meet local people and inject more purpose into your stay in Swansea.

Swansea City Farm. Fforestfach. (Directions: bus numbers 110, 111, 112 and X13 from city centre to Ivorite Arms bus stop). A project that aims 'to provide a sustainable community farm which is stimulating and educational and offers enjoyable and safe activities.' Everyone is welcome to contribute their energy and time to this on-going project (call first).

Walking Swansea is a great place if you are into walking. Here are a few easily accessible routes: Swansea Marina to Mumbles Pier: about five miles of flat walking with great views over Swansea Bay. Limeslade Bay to Caswell Bay: about three miles of cliff path walking with stunning scenery. Bishopston Valley: about three miles of riverside walking, starting just below Bishopston church, a peaceful and lush valley that spills out onto a storm beach. The return journey can be made over the cliff path to the left of the beach when facing the sea.

The calm waters of Swansea Bay and Oxwich Bay are ideal for watersports such as skiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, dinghy sailing and Power boat training.

Mumbles Motor Boat and Fishing Club.

Bay Watersports. Lessons in windsurfing and kayaking on Swansea Bay. May to October, seven days a week.

Swansea Watersports. Offers training in the following activities at various locations around the Gower Peninsula: powerboating, sailing, kayaking, jet skiing, first aid and sea survival.

Some of the best surfing spots in the UK are in Swansea, with Llangenith, Caswell and Langland bays being the most popular.

Gower Live. Real time view of the surf at Langland Bay

Learn

Universities Swansea University has a student population approaching 20,000, and for the past few years has been the successive winner of The Times award for the best student experience in the UK. The university is also listed as one of the top 200 universities in the world according to QS World University Rankings. University of Wales Trinity St David, Swansea. With several campuses throughout the city, the university is famous for its courses in stained glass design and digital media.

Venue No 1 - Mark Jermin Stage School. Classes in performing arts, cafe, theatre.

Sailing Sailing lessons are available at several training schools in the Swansea area:

Buy

Welsh Love Spoons: large spoons carved in wood that are traditional gifts between lovers. Woven cloth: available in traditional Welsh designs and sold as shawls, skirts and purses. Monopoly: one of the series of this famous game is based on the streets and landmarks of Swansea. Laverbread: the Swansea speciality dish made from seaweed.

Murroughs Welsh Brew Tea. Quality African and Indian teas blended in Swansea

Michton Chocolates. Luxury chocolates made in Swansea.

Salt Marsh Lamb: locally produced Gower salt-marsh lamb, from sheep reared in the salt-marshes of Loughor Estuary is available from many local butchers and in Swansea Market.

Crundles. Quality handicrafts, ethnic clothes, and jewellery from Asia.

Love Spoon Gallery. Mumbles. It offers the largest range of love spoons in the city.

Oriel Ceri Richards Gallery. Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea University. Taliesin’s Oriel Ceri Richards Gallery hosts regular touring exhibitions, and stocks an excellent range of greetings cards, jewellery, ceramics and other craft items.

Slate House. Handmade items from Wales.

General The Quadrant Centre and Oxford Street are the main shopping centres, and host all the usual department and chain stores. Between these two areas lies the much more interesting city market. Although housed in a modern building, Swansea Market can trace its history back to medieval times, and is the largest market in Wales. It is also a good place to purchase the local delicacy, laverbread. Laverbread requires refrigeration to keep fresh. If travelling, request vacuum-packed or canned.

On the edge of the city centre is an array of large, utilitarian shopping centres collectively known as Parc Tawe. Within the complex there is also a UCI multiscreen cinema and bowling alley. Parc Fforestfach is an out-of-town shopping centre that houses several huge retail stores. And, for night owls, the huge Tesco supermarkets between the Quadrant Centre and Oystermouth Road in the city centre, Parc Fforestfach and Llansamlet are all open 24 hours.

High Street (near the junction with College Street) has several stores specialising in backpack and hiking equipment. So, if your tent is springing a leak or your hiking shoes wearing thin, this is the best place to replenish your equipment before heading into the wild Welsh countryside. High Street is Swansea's creative hub, and so among the theatres and galleries, there are also niche shops.

Sketty Local Produce Market. 9:30AM-12:30PM, 1st Saturday each month

Swansea Market. Open 6 days a week, it has a number of stalls selling locally sourced produce.

Uplands and Marina Markets. Fully fledged street markets selling fresh breads, fruit, plants and handicrafts.

Cover to Cover. An indie bookshop with a wide range of titles.

Dylan's Bookstore. Specialises in the work of Dylan Thomas.

Eat

Cockles These are harvested from the mud-flats in the nearby Loughor Estuary. Cockles are sold in Swansea Market. Ice-cream. Due to an influx of Italian families into the area during the early 20th century, Swansea has developed quite a reputation for its tubs and cones. While there are several excellent brands, the nationally acclaimed Joe's Ice-cream is by far the most famous, and their parlours are venerable institutions in the city. In fact, it is often said that no visit to Swansea is complete until you've had a Joe's. Laverbread. This Swansea speciality breakfast made from seaweed is delicious rolled in oatmeal and lightly fried or just heated and served on buttered toast. Request your hotel serve it for breakfast or pick up a can or vacuum pack from Swansea Market. Salt Marsh Lamb This is the meat from lambs which graze in salt marshes. The meat from these lambs has a subtly different taste to lamb sold in supermarkets. Local Gower salt-marsh lamb comes from sheep reared in the salt-marshes of the Loughor estuary. Salt marsh lamb can be bought in many local butchers and in Swansea Market and is served in the premier local-cuisine restaurants in the city. Welsh Cakes. Scone-like cakes studded with raisins and dusted with sugar. Available at most bakeries, but best served hot off the griddle at Swansea Market. Welsh Rarebit. Swansea is a good place to sample this Welsh speciality of melted cheese spiced with ale and herbs. It is generally served on toasted bread with a side salad.

Provisions Ethnic Supermarkets can be found on the nearby streets of St Helen's and Brynamor, with the former focusing more on South Asian foods, while the latter tends toward Southeast and East Asian products.

Flynn's Delicatessen. Quality international and locally made food. Wide range of cheeses. Breads. Wines. Sandwiches. Excellent coffee. Sitting area. Very friendly and knowledgeable service.

Sainsbury's Superstore. Fruit, vegetables, bread, and processed food.

Swansea Market. Wales' largest indoor market. Voted 'Britain's Best Large Indoor Market 2024' by industry body NABMA. Stalls offering fresh fruit, vegetables, meat and fish. Specializes in local produce. Range of cooked meals. Free sitting area.

Tesco Supermarket. A huge supermarket. Fruit, vegetables. and processed food.

Restaurants Swansea is teeming with quality restaurants: more than one hundred in the city centre alone. Wind Street for theme bars and quality international cuisine. Quality Chinese food on High Street and Princess Way. St.Helen's Road for take away and sit down Indian (also quality restaurants on Walter Road and off the Mumbles Road at Blackpill), Italian, Turkish and Indonesian. Cheap and excellent vegetarian at 8 Cradock Street, off Kingsway. The Environment Centre, Pier street, Marina offers cheap and excellent fair trade coffee and snacks.

Grape and Olive at the top of the Meridian Tower in the Marina has incredible views over Swansea Bay

Mumbles Road in Mumbles has a wide range of restaurants. Check out Verdi's on Mumbles sea front for great views over a cappuccino.

Joe's Ice-cream Parlours are on St. Helen's Road, near the Guildhall, and near the post office on Mumbles Road in Mumbles.

Below is a very brief list of popular restaurants in the city centre and marina area.

Charlie's Chowder. Marina (near Morgan's Hotel). M Tu 11AM-5PM, W-Sa 11AM-midnight. Serves up great New England dishes in simple New England style.

Espresso Bar. This is an unpretentious little cafe that serves fry-up breakfasts in the morning. During lunch hours, they serve several British classics like cottage pie and roast dinners. In addition to the plated food, they serve made to order sandwiches and baugettes and coffee. This is an excellent place to fill up when there is some time to kill before the next train leaves.

HQ Urban Kitchen. Social enterprise. Eco-friendly packaging. Locally sourced ingredients. Specializes in hearty British/Continental food. Coffee. Creative space.

Uplands Diner. Home of the "Beast" a massive breakfast, has to be seen to be believed.

China Deli and Cafe. Tasty authentic Chinese cafe dishes, superb value.

Oriental Garden. Buffet-style cuisine with at least 40 dishes on rotation.

El Mercado. Freshly made Mexican dishes. The stall has quite a cult following among Mexican food lovers. Take away only.

The Bay View. Near the Guildhall, the restaurant offers wonderful views of Swansea Bay, and is connected to a lounge bar. Good, inexpensive meals.

Canteen 18. A vegan restaurant serving mouth-watering dishes.

Khusi Khana. Indian snacks and fast food.

Govinda's. Cheap and really excellent food. Indian dishes are a speciality, but the desserts alone are worth the visit.

Retreat. Vegan, small, backstreet cafe.

The Kitchen Table. Mumbles. Wholesome meals made with locally sourced ingredients.

Dragons Nest. The only Chinese restaurant in the Swansea area to serve Dim Sum. Excellent food and great service.

Gigi Gao. A restaurant overlooking the waterfront. Exceptional food. Vibrant Chinese decor. Outdoor seating.

Rendez-Vous. St. Davids Square, Princess Way. French and Chinese cuisine, great food, great service.

Sea Garden. Penclawdd Road, Penclawdd.

Rainbao. Open kitchen. Specializing in Taiwanese steamed buns with choice of fillings, Japanese gyoza and katsu curry, Cantonese dim sum, Korean pork and kimchi. Many vegan and vegetarian options.

Albert Hall. Wide range of quality restaurants and cafes in food court setting. Grade 2 listed building. Concert hall.

Founders & Co.. An innovative space for vendors offering Japanese and Indian cuisine, pizza, artisan burgers, street food, coffee, and craft beer, etc. Founders & co also houses an emporium for designer crafts and a multipurpose events room. Regular live music and art exhibitions.

Greek Flavours. Wide selection of Greek food and snacks. Highly rated for service and standard of the meals. Bright and airy restaurant. Bar.

Manifest Cafe. Healthy food café. Açaí bowls, salads, bagels, and wraps. Large portions. Smoothies and coffee. Bright and modern interior.

Adelinas Bar & Indian Kitchen. Wide range of traditional and fusion dishes served in an historical listed building. Views over park. Cheerful ambience.

Mumbai. Modern and spacious ambiance with amazing food. Very highly recommended.

Rasoi Waterfront. In a converted warehouse. The cozy and warm decor compliment the excellent meals and service

Vojon. Excellent value for money, service is a bit slow.

Chelsea Cafe. Popular with young up-and-comings.

Hoogah. Warm and cosy café-bar serving excellent British and Italian food. Sourdough pizzas are a speciality.

The River House. Chic restaurant and lounge with views over the Sail Bridge. Delicious and innovative cuisine.

Bella Ciao. Family run restaurant. Authentic Sicilian cuisine. Welcoming atmosphere. Fantastic food. Centrally located.

Luigi's Restaurant. An elegant restaurant with Italian features. Excellent Italian cuisine. Wood-fired pizzas. Desserts and coffee.

Verdi's. Probably the nearest thing the UK has to an authentic Italian sea-front cafe-cum-restaurant, and the huge plate glass windows offer spectacular views over Swansea Bay. Buses travelling to Limeslade stop here. Alternatively, it can be reached on foot via the promenade, a ten-minute walk from Mumbles Village.

Marley Vibes. Authentic Jamaican cuisine in a warm and welcoming environment.

Joyato. All-you-can-eat. Specialises in sushi and grilled dishes. Large open restaurant. Bright interior.

Nishimura. Sushi, Japanese noodles, bento boxes, Japanese-style afternoon tea. Warm and contemporary interior design.

RyuGin. Fresh sushi and noodles in a compact but bright space.

Wagamama. Specialises in ramen, donburi, teppanyaki, curry, salads. Wide range of vegetarian and vegan options.

Kan Zaman Restaurant. Relaxing atmosphere and wide choice of dishes.

Shiraz Restaurant. Mumbles. Great selection of Middle Eastern dishes with an unobstructed view over Swansea Bay.

Grape & Olive. A penthouse restaurant in the tallest building in Wales with spectacular views of central Swansea and the bay. Wifi access is available and parties are catered for.

The Mediterranean. Mumbles. A small restaurant with loads of character and excellent food.

Piñatas Burrito Bar. Authentic and tasty Mexican dishes. Good selection of vegetarian and vegan options.

Cosmo. Buffet restaurant. Serves a range of Asian cuisine. Very nice decor.

Thai Elephant. A small but cosy restaurant serving authentic Thai dishes.

Istanbul. Non-pretentious but excellent Turkish restaurant with a very friendly staff. Portions are big and cheap.

Mediterranean. Great, no-nonsense Turkish cuisine.

Canteen 18. A fully 100% plant‑based café offering breakfast, salads, wraps, curries, cottage pie. Coffee.

Crumbs Kitchen. Delicious, healthy and innovative.

Sketty Hall. In a beautiful white Georgian Mansion within the spacious grounds of Singleton Park, this restaurant offers an especially peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.

The Pump House. Pump House Quay, Maritime Quarter.

Bistro Pierre. High quality French cuisine and seasonal menus. Seafront location, offering stunning views over Swansea Bay.

Gallinis. Superb traditional Italian cuisine. on the waterfront at the marina.

RoK Restaurant. A fine dining restaurant. Warm and intimate interior. Unobstructed views over Bracelet Bay. Excellent food.

El Pescador. Authentic Spanish cuisine with a modern twist. Solid wooden tables. Views over the marina waterfront. Highly rated for food and atmosphere.

La Braseria. A favourite with Catherine Zeta-Jones.

Altitude 28 Sky Bar and Restaurant. British and Continental menu. Chic Interior. Highest restaurant in Wales. View over Marina and Swansea Bay. Excellent meals. Coffee and cocktails.

Langland's Brasserie. A fine modern British restaurant with a fantastic view overlooking Langland Bay. Ingredients are organic when available.

Norton House. Quiet and elegant ambience. Historical mansion setting. Locally sourced ingredients. Excellent desserts.

Quay Three. A chic deli, bar, cafe and restaurant. Great place to boat-watch over a cappuccino.

Papa Sanchos. Stone grill restaurant.

Slice. Excellent dishes made with locally sourced produce and seasonal ingredients. Slice has won two covered 'Which' awards for cuisine.

Swigg. On the waterfront, Swigg functions as a cool café by day and a sophisticated bar by night.

The Shed. Located in listed building. Fine dining. Locally sourced ingredients. Refined interior. Close to waterfront.

The Welsh House. Located in a listed building. Elegant interior. Views over the marina. Innovative Welsh cuisine using local products where available.

Drink

Swansea's busiest and liveliest watering hole is on historic Wind Street (appropriately pronounced Wined) and surrounding area, which is also home to many of Swansea's best restaurants.

The city has been awarded the prestigious national Purple Flag for over a decade, recognizing its safe, vibrant, and well-managed evening and night-time economy. (July 2025)

Wind Street marks the centre of the city's night club and bar area, and on a Friday or Saturday night the words of Dylan Thomas, although originally referring to death, seem somehow appropriate in describing the mood of the revellers: "Do not go gentle into that good night,... burn and rave at close of day; rage, rage against the dying of the light." Another popular watering hole is the Brynymor Road area. This area has a more laid-back atmosphere than Wind Street and is popular with the many university students who live nearby. There are also several excellent international restaurants in the area, serving Italian, French, Mediterranean, Thai and Indian cuisine. Uplands is Swansea's most bohemian area and is the place to find indie restaurants, bars, and cafes, while Mumbles has some lovely old pubs and a number of distinctive cafes, many with sea views.

Coffee and tea Swansea enjoys a wonderful cafe culture, originally sparked by an influx of Italian families to the city in the early 20th century and later expanded with the establishment of local independents.

Americanos. A waterside jazz cafe/bar serving snacks and tapas.

BaseKamp. A spacious cafe in an historical building. Micro-roastery, Excellent coffee and meals.

Bogarts CBD Coffee House. Relaxed atmosphere, good coffee. Specialises in offering Cannabidiol (CBD) supplements.

Boobo Tea. Authentic Taiwanese bubble tea. Fruit teas. Variety of toppings. Bright and simple interior.

Chai Stop. Various kinds of chai, including the spicy karak chai, Indian desserts, and all day breakfasts. Bright and cheerful Indian-style decor.

Chuckaboo. Late night cafe. Mix of vintage and modern design. LGBTQ-friendly. Excellent coffee and snacks.

Coffee Punks. Exposed wood and concrete gives the cafe an urban charm. Vegan cakes are a speciality.

Common Meeple. Board game cafe. Spacious and bright environment. Wide range of board games. Coffee and light meals. Advance booking recommended.

Ground Plant Based Coffee. Vegan cafe. Cozy and intimate interior. Delicious snacks and desserts.

Holbrook's. Pleasant and warm atmosphere. Excellent coffee, including Fair Trade, and good selection of cakes.

Kardomah. The original Kardomah was a favourite haunt of Dylan Thomas.

Matt's Cafe. Matt's offers healthy, wholesome meals on a pay-as-much-as-you-like basis.

Millefoglie. A authentic Italian cafe. Excellent coffee and desserts. Bright and welcoming decor.

Mosaic. A chic bistro-cafe. great coffee, innovative dishes (including a wide selection of vegetarian options) and interesting wines.

Nonna's. Vegan cafe. An assortment of desserts. Doughnuts are a specialty.

Saint Hugo. Artisan bakery opened by successful Bake-off contestant. Tasteful and spacious interior. Superb pastries. Excellent coffee.

Social Bean. A community coffee shop that provides employment and skills development opportunities for disabled people. The cafe sells fairtrade artisan coffee and healthy locally sourced meals.

Social Dice. A board game cafe. More than 400 board games. Serves coffee, beers and cocktails, Hot and cold snacks. Cover charge to play games. Friendly and inviting atmosphere.

Tapestri. A social enterprise cafe that uses fairtrade and locally sourced products.

The Storyteller. Cafe-Bar. Modern and chic interior. Large street facing windows. Outdoor seating. Healthy and delicious British and Continental meals. Excellent coffee. Beer and cocktails.

Urban HQ. A café and creative hub, offering workspaces and event spaces for connection, collaboration, and creativity.

Waterfront Cafe. A large cafe great views over marina. Large selection of coffees and teas.

Cafe Valance. The leather sofas, wood flooring, brick walls and open fronting give this cafe a very trendy but homely atmosphere.

Mumbles Coffee. Pleasant cafe with mezzanine. Excellent coffee, light meals, and pastries. Centrally located.

Also Verdis and Castellamare, see Eat listing.

The Junction Cafe. A quaint cafe and snack bar based in a building that was once a station for the historic Swansea to Mumbles Railway.

The Secret Beach Bar and Kitchen. A cafe, bar, and eatery near St Helen's Rugby Ground. On the beach front. Uninhibited views over Swansea Bay.

Chambers Cafe Bar. Modern and cosy serves wholesome beverages and snacks, such as fair-trade coffee, teas, smoothies, local produce, hummus and ciabattas.

Noahs Yard. An Italian-inspired café/bar. Excellent atmosphere. Cosy and earthy artwork, including an original Banksy.

One Shoe Cafe. In a former cobblers, this small, cosy cafe serves excellent coffees and wholesome snacks at very competitive prices.

Saint Hugo. Artisan bakery opened by successful Bake-off contestant. Tasteful and spacious interior. Superb pastries. Excellent coffee.

Sloth Cafe. Small, chic café, with speciality coffees, delicious pastries and cakes.

Pure Refreshment. A juice and smoothies bar using all natural ingredients

Smoothie Den. Run by a former doctor who is passionate about health. Cold press juices. Smoothies made from natural ingredients. Waffles with a variety of toppings.

Jam Jar. live music and events venue

Penderyn Distillery. Penderyn's third whisky distillery opens July 2023 in a restored listed building.

The Cross Keys Inn. A pub in a 14th-century building. Outdoor seating.

Utopia. LGBTQ friendly bar. Live entertainment

City centre: Bryn-y-Mor Road vicinity

Noahs Yard. An Italian-inspired cafe/bar. Live jazz every Monday from 8:30-11PM. Excellent atmosphere. Cosy and earthy artwork, including an original Banksy.

Uplands Tavern. Live bands play on most nights of the week. Features a large fenced outdoor area at the front. This can be a very lively pub at weekends and on special occasions.

Sleep

There is a whole row of B&Bs on the sea-facing Oystermouth Road and also many in the spacious suburb of Uplands. Both locations are near the city centre, though lodgings in the Uplands area tend to be of better quality. Mumbles Road in Mumbles also has a wide selection of B&Bs with sea views.

Backpacker hostels Swansea has two hostels: one in the city centre and one in a rural setting (See Gower Peninsula):

Cwtsh Hostel. A contemporary and stylish hostel with bunk pods and private rooms. Coffee shop, kitchen, cinema. Views over castle ruins and main square.

Riverside Caravan Park. Set in a very green location surrounded by trees; nearest caravan park to Swansea city centre.

River View Touring Park. In a beautiful rural location in south-west Wales. It is easily reached from junction 49 of the M4 and other major routes.

Bay Apartments. Apartments in the Maritime Quarter.

Clyne Farm Cottages & Clyne Estate. Converted barns and cottages plus horse riding and other activities. Near Mumbles.

Gower Edge Self Catering. Spacious detached property which sleeps 8 in comfort. Wales Tourist Board 3*. Children and pets are most welcome. Short breaks and longer stays available.

Hendrefoelan Holiday Apartments. Housing and apartments in student village at vacation times only.

Swansea Valley Holiday Cottages. An historic manor house and complex of eight luxury farm holiday cottages in the beautiful Swansea hinterland outside Pontardawe. Pet friendly cottages available.

Self-catering accommodation agencies

Home from Home. They offer a range of holiday cottages and apartments in Mumbles, Gower, Swansea Marina and other areas of south west Wales.

Alexander Private Hotel. Small and pleasant hotel with friendly and helpful staff. Close to the city centre, Swansea University and Gower Peninsula.

Hotel Ibis. Off the motorway connecting road, a car is essential. Not convenient for tourists.

Hurst Dene Guest House. Hurst Dene is in the leafy suburb of Uplands just off Uplands Square on the main road to the heart of the Gower peninsula. They offer guest rooms and self-catering apartments at affordable prices.

City Gates. Convenient for city centre, marina and 'Swansea-Cork Ferry.' Extremely noisy at weekends as Wind Street is Swansea's main watering hotel and many of the out-of-town revelers stay at this hotel.

Swansea North. Quieter than the city centre one and next to a popular Taybarns eat as much as you like restaurant.

Swansea Waterfront. This hotel is set in a tranquil location adjacent to the Prince of Wales marina. A Beefeater restaurant and a Tesco convenience store are on the ground floor. Recommended for business people and tourists.

Swansea University. Swansea University offers accommodation to the public during Summer and Easter holidays. They can offer a wide range of accommodation ranging from bed and breakfast non-ensuite single rooms through to self-catering apartments. They can accommodate large groups for events and conferences in the local area. Accommodation is available in Swansea University's Singleton Park campus set in beautiful parklands which is 5 minutes walk to the beach.

Travelodge Swansea Central Hotel. A modern but very basic hotel in city centre.

A Space in the City. Serviced apartments in the city centre: clean, spacious and within a five-minute walk of leisure centre, casino and shopping.

Delta Hotels by Marriott. Convenient for city centre. Wonderful views over Swansea Bay and marina.

Dragon Hotel. Swansea's oldest and one of its most popular hotels in the heart of the City Centre.

Norton House. A converted small Georgian manor house.

Mercure Swansea Hotel. Swap the urban whirl for lake views at the Mercure Swansea Hotel, gateway to the Brecon Beacons and Gower Peninsula.

The Grand. A beautifully renovated classic hotel. Convenient for city centre and rail travel.

The Village. SA1 Waterfront, Fabian Way, in the prestigious SA1 Waterfront area, a 20-minute walk to city centre, or two minutes to sea front.

Winston Hotel. A small family run hotel in quiet location over looking the Bishopston Valley and close to sandy beaches.

Morgan's Hotel. Five-star luxury in listed building. Convenient for city centre and marina. Atrium Restaurant

Knabrock Hotel. A boutique hotel offering unobstructed views of Swansea Bay. Excellent cuisine and service. Uncomplicated, but excellent cuisine. Restaurant offers uninhibited views over Swansea Bay.

The Georgian. A 12-room luxury boutique hotel in a distinctive Wedgewood blue Georgian town house. Period-decorated rooms. Close to city centre and marina.