visitswanseabay.

com
Happy Bi rthday Dyl an Thomas
Its the centenary year of Swanseas most famous son.
No wonder were pushing the boat out to celebrate.
Throughout 2014 were remembering Dylans life and work. Its one
more reason to visit our bright, buzzy city and rather lovely coast and
countryside, an area brimming with sandy bays and wild woodland
seemingly designed for hikers and bikers.
Swansea has changed a lot since Dylans time. We wonder what
hed make of the surfers on his boyhood beaches, the Citys Premier
League football team and our glittering Waterfront.
Some things havent changed though. Green Gower is still the
unspoilt paradise that inspired the artist as a young dog (to borrow
from his Portrait of the Artist as a Young Dog). And you can still count
on a hearty Swansea welcome wherever you go. While the City might
have had a cosmopolitan makeover since Dylans day, its still bursting
with the warm, vibrant personality that informed his writing.
Swansea Bay, Mumbl es and Gower 2014
visitswanseabay.com | 1
Insi de the gui de
02 Dylan: A local legend, 100 years in the making
Help us celebrate a very special birthday
04 Sea here
Dive into an ocean of possibilities in Wales
Waterfront City
10 Attraction stations
Theres so much to do in our city by the sea
14 Sights, camera, action!
Gorgeous Gower is picture-perfect, but its more
than just a pretty face
20 Making waves
The Gower Peninsula is home to a raft of
chart-topping beaches
24 Listen up
Cool, cosmopolitan Mumbles has plenty to shout about
30 Mawr than meets the eye
The Mawr moors, a walkers green, great escape
32 Green giants
The Afan Valley and Vale of Neath are lush and leafy,
lined with woods and waterfalls
36 2014 Events
Theres a lot going on this year
39 Useful Info
Getting here and making plans
40 Maps
Find your bearings
2 | visitswanseabay.com
A Swansea boy wi th a way wi th words
Dylan Thomas conjured up a whole new world, writing in English
but with a lyricism thats utterly, unmistakably Welsh. His observations,
on some occasions through the puzzled, innocent eyes of a child, on
others through a weary nostalgia, are mostly evocative, always unique.
A Swansea boy, born in 1914. So 2014 is a very special year
for us. One hundred years on, his stature grows and grows. Well be
celebrating his life and times in a big way. We hope youll be able to
share them here in Dylans home, where were staging a year long
Festival based on his life and work, with all kinds of innovative,
engaging and fun events.
Wel come to the party
Were pulling out all the stops to mark Dylans centenary.
Theres the world premiere of a new opera based on Under
Milk Wood, a Dylan themed walking festival, a special exhibition
of the writers poetry notebooks and, of course, our annual Dylan
Thomas Festival which will be bigger and better than ever.
Thats just scratching the surface. For full details of whats
on, see opposite or visit www.dylanthomas.com
Dyl ans town
Whenever you come, youll find that Dylan is an everyday experience
in our city. Hes everywhere. Youll see him sitting on his bronze chair
overlooking our swanky modern marina (what would he have thought
of that?). And sense his spirit in places like Cwmdonkin Park, the
young Dylans world within the world of the sea town. Go there
now. Close your eyes and youll hear the same sounds Dylan heard,
children playing, dogs barking.
Mind you, youve got to be a Sherpa to get there. He lived,
up, up and away at 5 Cwmdonkin Drive. Take a peek inside, or
even better stay. The Edwardian villa, fitted out in period style, is
open for tours and overnight stays.
Drop into the Dylan Thomas Centre to get
even closer to the man. Youll see him there
and hear him speak in that rich, rolling voice
of his. Youll also see a fascinating collection of
artefacts, from old school photos to the blue
painted door of his writing shed.
Dyl an Thomas:
A l ocal l egend, 100 years i n the maki ng
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Dylan Thomas Centre
Somerset Place, Swansea SA1 1RR
(01792 463980
www.dylanthomas.com
Dylan Thomas Birthplace
Dylan Thomas House,
5 Cwmdonkin Drive, Uplands,
Swansea SA2 0RA
(01792 472555
info@dylanthomasbirthplace.com
Cwmdonkin Park
Swansea SA2 0RA
(01792 205327
www.cwmdonkinpark.co.uk
Dyl an Thomas
Attracti ons &
Acti vi ti es
12th Feb On The Edge: Number 5 Cwmdonkin Drive,
by Liz Wride, performance
18th 22nd Mar Under Milk Wood, performance directed
by Terry Hands
3rd 5th Apr Under Milk Wood: an opera, in association with
Welsh National Opera
10th May Under the Cranes, film & Q&A, with poet Michael Rosen
26th May Reminiscences of Childhood, solo performance
31st May 31st Aug Dylan Thomas Notebooks Exhibition
7th Jun Dylan Thomas War: the Pacifist, the Propagandist
and the Swansea Blitz, tour, talk and film screening
13th Jun Dylan Thomas Walk, with the Gower Walking Festival
10th Jul Under Milk Wood Jazz Suite, with the Gower Festival
12th Jul Dylan Thomas Swansea Uplands: the Boy and
the Young Dog, tour and lecture, featuring Hannah Ellis, Dylans
granddaughter
19th Jul Dylan Thomas Swansea Hollywood: the Mummy
and the Old Dark House, tour, talk and film screening featuring
scriptwriter Andrew Davies
5th Sep 24th Dec Dylan Thomas Manuscripts Exhibition
6th Sep Dylan Thomas, the Kardomah Gang, the Actor and
the Comedian, tour and talk featuring Jeff Towns, Chairman
of the Dylan Thomas Society
3rd 4th Oct Time Let Me Play, Dylan Thomas poetry
set to music, featuring concert artist Keith James
11th Oct Feb 2015 Dylan Thomas by Alfred Janes,
art exhibition
Dylans Swansea,
performance based guided
tours, with Fluellen Theatre
Company: various dates
Apr to Nov.
Return Journey, promenade
performance, with Lighthouse
Theatre: various dates May
to Sept.
This is just a selection of
events, for more information on
these and many more go to
www.dylanthomas.com.
11th Oct Wales Premiere of A Dylan Thomas
Trilogy, with Swansea Festival of Music & the
Arts, featuring the BBC National Orchestra
18th Oct Russian State Philharmonic
Orchestra play Karl Jenkins Llareggub,
with Swansea Festival of Music & the Arts
19th 28th Oct The Beginning, ten days of
celebration leading up to the 100th anniversary!
24th 26th Oct Do Not Go Gentle Festival,
featuring music, literature, comedy and film
27th Oct 9th Nov Dylan Thomas Festival,
events and special guests as our annual Festival
celebrates Dylans centenary
4th 8th Nov A Childs Christmas in Wales,
Michael Bogdanovs production of Dylans
classic story
4 | visitswanseabay.com
Sea here
Mari nas, museums, markets and more.
Theres an ocean of possi bi l i ti es i n Wal es
Waterfront Ci ty.
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Hi story buoys
We take our heritage seriously, but that
doesnt mean it cant be fun. The hi-tech
National Waterfront Museum lets you get
hands on with history, telling the tale of
Wales industry and people through
innovative interactive exhibits. Its certainly
made quite a splash. Opened in 2005,
it has already welcomed more than
two million visitors.
Just across the road from Wales newest
museum is Wales oldest. Swansea Museum
may be more traditional than its neighbour,
but its just as entertaining. Home to a quirky
cornucopia of exhibits, it throws up fresh
surprises around every corner. Meet the
mummy, the golden 2,000-year old artefact
from Egypt, or relive the times when Swansea
was an equally golden Copperopolis.
Dock star
Blue Flags arent just for beaches.
Our boat filled marina has also snapped
up one of these prized seaside accolades.
Its easy to see why. Even if youre a
confirmed landlubber, its hard to resist the
nautical romance of sparkling water and
colourful sails snapping in the breeze.
Local fl avours
Youre never far from the water in our
compact, visitor friendly city centre. Just
across the road from the seafront youll find
yourself in shopping streets where big-name
stores rub shoulders with inviting independent
speciality shops.
At the heart of it all is Swanseas famous
covered market. Its a lively place, a bustling
maze of stalls where you can buy almost
anything, from light bulbs to linen. But its
fabulous food thats the big draw. Try some
laverbread our tasty seaweed-based local
delicacy or pick up peppery cockles from
Penclawdd, Gower saltmarsh lamb and
unbelievably fresh seafood thats made the
short trip from the waters of Swansea Bay.
Its the place to go if you want a true taste
of the sea and that traditional,
warm hearted Swansea welcome.
Swanseas relationship with all things
maritime goes back centuries. After all,
the sea is right there in our name. Our historic
docklands have been reimagined and
reinvented into a state-of-the-art, award
winning Maritime Quarter. Dive in and youll
find a buzzing complex packed with things to
see and do, from fascinating museums to cool
waterfront cafs. Its the perfect location for
a seaside stroll with a difference.
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Beachcomber
364 Oystermouth Road,
Swansea SA1 3UL
(01792 651380
www.beachcomberguesthouse.com
GH
The Dragon Hotel
The Kingsway, Swansea SA1 5LS
(01792 657100
www.dragon-hotel.co.uk
/ H
The Bayswater
322 Oystermouth Road,
Swansea SA1 3UJ
(01792 655301
bayswaterswansea@gmail.com
AG
Morgans Hotel
Somerset Place, Swansea SA1 1RR
(01792 484848
www.morganshotel.co.uk
H
Swansea Marriott Hotel
Maritime Quarter, Swansea SA1 3SS
(01792 642020
www.swanseamarriott.co.uk
H
Chatcoombe B & B
20 Rhyd-Y-Defaid Drive, Derwen Fawr,
Sketty, Swansea SA2 8AH
(01792 207100
www.chatcoombe.co.uk
BB
Premier Inn Swansea North
Upper Forest Way, Morriston,
Swansea SA6 8WB
(0871 527 9062
www.premierinn.com/
swanseanorth
BH
Premier Inn
Swansea Waterfront
Waterfront Development, Langdon Road,
Swansea SA1 8PL
(0871 527 9212
www.premierinn.com/
swanseawaterfront
BH
Premier Inn
Swansea City Centre
Salubrious Place, Wind Street,
Swansea SA1 1EE
(0871 527 9060
www.premierinn.com/
swanseacitycentre
BH
Accommodati on i n the Swansea Area
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Village Urban Resort
Langdon Road, SA1 Waterfront,
Swansea SA1 8QY
(0871 222 4608
www.village-hotels.com
L
Mercure Swansea
Phoenix Way, Swansea SA6 8LW
(01792 310330
sales.mercureswansea@
jupiterhotels.co.uk
H
Campus Accommodation,
Swansea University
Singleton Park, Swansea SA2 8PP
(01792 295665
www.swansea.ac.uk/conferences
CA
Somerfield Lodge B & B
Clyne Golf Club,
118-120 Owls Lodge Lane,
Mayals, Swansea SA3 5DP
(01792 401989
www.clynegolfclub.com
GA
Victoria Quay
Victoria Quay, Maritime Quarter,
Swansea SA1 3XG
(01269 595640
www.canolcottages.com
SC
Bay Apartments
29 Camona Drive, Maritime Quarter,
Swansea SA1 1YJ
(01792 645566
www.bayapartments.co.uk
AG SC
Clyne Farm Cottages
Westport Avenue, Mayals,
Swansea SA3 5AR
(01792 403333
cottages@clynefarm.com
SC
Gower Edge Holidays
52A Killan Road, Dunvant,
Swansea SA2 7TH
(01608 674467
www.gower-edge-holidays.co.uk
SC
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Wales National Pool Swansea
Sketty Lane, Swansea SA2 8QG
(01792 513513
www.walesnationalpool
swansea.co.uk
West Glamorgan
Archive Service
Civic Centre, Swansea SA1 3SN
(01792 636589
www.swansea.gov.uk/
westglamorganarchives
Swansea Grand Theatre
Singleton Street, Swansea SA1 3QJ
(01792 475715
www.swanseagrand.co.uk
LC
Oystermouth Road, Swansea SA1 3ST
(01792 466500
www.thelcswansea.com
Swansea Prom
Mumbles Road, Swansea
(01792 468321
www.swanseaprom.com
Plantasia
Parc Tawe, Swansea SA1 2AL
(01792 474555
www.plantasia.org
Swansea Parks
and Gardens
Swansea
www.breatheswansea.com
Glynn Vivian Art Gallery
Offsite
Activities at YMCA, Swansea.
Events at various venues.
(01792 516900
www.glynnviviangallery.org
1940s Swansea
Bay Museum
Baldwins Crescent, Crymlyn Burrows,
Swansea SA1 8PT
(01792 458864
www.1940sswanseabay.co.uk
360 Beach and Watersports
Mumbles Road, Swansea SA2 0AY
(01792 655844
www.360swansea.co.uk
Skidz Karting Ltd.
Unit 1 Rear of Queensway,
Swansea West Business Park,
Swansea SA5 4DJ
(01792 580927
info@skidzkarting.co.uk
National Waterfront Museum
Oystermouth Road, Swansea SA1 3RD
((029) 2057 3600
www.museumwales.ac.uk
Down to Earth
72a Manselfield Road, Murton,
Swansea SA3 3AP
(01792 232439
www.downtoearthproject.org.uk
Annie from Wales
Tour Guide & Dylan Thomas Specialist
(07817 753376
www.anniefromwales.com
Teamforce Paintball
& Activity Centre
Llangyfelach Road, Llangyfelach,
Swansea SA5 7PE
(01792 772311
www.teamforceuk.com
Dynamic Rock
Adventures Ltd.
16-18 Hebron Road, Clydach,
Swansea SA6 5EJ
(01792 845655
info@dynamicrock.co.uk
Clyne Farm Riding
and Activity Centre
Westport Avenue, Mayals,
Swansea SA3 5AR
(01792 403333
muddy@clynefarm.com
Swansea Museum
Victoria Road, Maritime Quarter,
Swansea SA1 1SN
(01792 653763
www.swanseamuseum.co.uk
Swansea Community
Boat Trust
Swansea Museum Pontoon,
Museum Square, Maritime Quarter,
Swansea SA1 3XA
(07785 347549
www.scbt.org.uk
Swansea Market
Oxford Street, Swansea SA1 3PQ
(01792 654296
www.swanseaindoormarket.co.uk
Swansea Tourist
Information Centre
Plymouth Street, Swansea SA1 3QG
(01792 468321
www.visitswanseabay.com
Attracti ons & Acti vi ti es i n the Swansea Area
10 | visitswanseabay.com
Attracti on stati ons
Indoors or outdoors, wet or dry - there s so
much to do i n our ci ty by the sea.
Wales Waterfront City comes with some big
advantages. There arent many places where you
can hit the shops in the morning and hit the surf in
the afternoon. In pretty, beachy Swansea, weve
got the best of both worlds.
One fi ne Bay
Thrill seekers will make a bee line to 360 Beach
and Watersports, Swanseas new Centre of
Excellence for all things watersporty (the clue is
in the name). For real sea dogs the centre offers
activities like sea kayaking and kite surfing, while
those who dont fancy getting their feet wet can
enjoy sandy beach volleyball, soccer and power
kiting. The 360 comes complete with a welcoming
caf-bar serving up delicious locally sourced food.
Just the thing for when youve built up a big,
Swansea Bay sized appetite.
The action continues indoors at the state-of-
the-art LC Leisure Complex. Ride the slides at the
popular waterpark or scale the four storey climbing
wall provided you have a head for heights.
You can even catch waves on Boardrider, the first
indoor surfing experience of its kind anywhere in
the world.
visitswanseabay.com | 11
Surf and turf
Sea and sand are just part of the big Swansea picture.
This is a green city, dotted throughout with lush parks and
gardens more than 50 in total.
Were well known for our Blue Flag beaches, but our green spaces
are star performers too. Brynmill Park, Clyne Gardens, Cwmdonkin
Park, Singleton Botanical Gardens and Victoria Park are all proud
holders of a prestigious Green Flag Award.
Weve even got our own miniature rainforest, smack in the city
centre. Housed in a huge glass pyramid, Plantasia is bursting
with exotic vegetation, along with a colourful collection of
animals including monkeys, snakes and lizards.
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Our beautiful peninsula is a place where
inspirational views go hand in hand with
outdoor adventure. Gowers panoramas
wouldnt look out of place in an art gallery,
but its rugged landscape demands to be
experienced hands on. Its the complete
opposite of look, but dont touch.
Hey, good looking
Gowers been wowing visitors for
years. But dont take our word for it
the Peninsula was designated the UKs
first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
way back in 1956. It hasnt changed
much since then.
Though its less than 20 miles long and
covers just 70 square miles, Gowers
landscape packs in oceans of variety.
Youll find craggy limestone cliffs in the south,
long sandy beaches in the west and ethereal
salt marshes in the north. In between theres
a green patchwork of rolling common land,
strung with drystone walls and ancient
hedgerows.
Thrusting into the waves like some giant
sea serpent, mile long Worms Head at the
edge of Rhossili Bay is one of Gowers most
iconic sights. Its the ultimate shop window
for the Peninsulas stunning scenery. With its
rugged cliffs and grassy spine, its almost
a miniature version of Gower itself.
Si ghts, camera, acti on!
Gorgeous Gower mi ght be pi cture-perfect.
But i ts more than j ust a pretty face.
visitswanseabay.com | 15
Make a spl ash
Stay on dry land in Gower and youre only getting half the story.
The warm waters and superior swell of sandy Llangennith have
been a surfers paradise for decades. In that time weve added kite
surfing, sea kayaking and paddle boarding to our watery repertoire.
The truly adventurous can even combine land and sea with a
spot of coasteering climbing on our rugged cliffs to leap into
the waves below.
Feet fi rst
Its no surprise to learn that Gower has some of most beautiful
stretches of the 870 mile Wales Coast Path. Strap on those boots
and youre in for some spectacular waterfront walks. And, as a
bonus, theres usually more to see than sand and sea. The short
4 mile coast walk between Port Eynon and Oxwich, for example,
also takes in lush woodland and some of Gowers prettiest
man made landmarks in the form of Tudor Oxwich Castle and
13th century St Illtyds Church.
16 | visitswanseabay.com
The Wormshead Hotel
Rhossili, Gower, Swansea SA3 1PP
(01792 390512
www.thewormshead.co.uk
SH
Tallizmand Guest House
Tallizmand, Llanmadoc, Gower,
Swansea SA3 1DE
(01792 386373
www.tallizmand.co.uk
GH
Fairyhill
Reynoldston, Gower, Swansea SA3 1BS
(01792 390139
www.fairyhill.net
/ RR
Parc-le-Breos House
Parkmill, Gower, Swansea SA3 2HA
(01792 371636
www.parclebreos.co.uk
/ F
Fairways B & B
110 Owls Lodge Lane, Clyne Common,
Swansea SA3 5DP
(01792 401080
www.fairwaysweb.com
BB
Gower Golf Club
Cefn Goleu, Three Crosses,
Swansea SA4 3HS
(01792 872480
bookings@gowergolf.co.uk
L
Seren Retreat
Bryncoch Farm, Gower, Swansea SA2 7LB
(01792 371421
www.serenretreat.com
BB
Westwinds B & B
Westwinds, Blackhills Lane,
Fairwood, Swansea SA2 7JN
(01792 281573
www.westwindsbandb.co.uk
BB
Kings Head Inn
Llangennith, Gower, Swansea SA3 1HX
(01792 386212
www.kingsheadgower.co.uk
INN
Oldwalls Gower
Oldwalls, Nr Llanrhidian, Gower SA3 1HA
(01792 391468
www.oldwallsgower.com
GA
The King Arthur Hotel
Higher Green, Reynoldston,
Swansea SA3 1AD
(01792 390775
www.kingarthurhotel.co.uk
INN
Wyndgarth
Reynoldston, Swansea SA3 1AD
(01792 390140
www.wyndgarthgower
bedandbreakfast.co.uk
BB
Bayholme Cottage
& Holiday Bungalow
Bayholme, Oxwich, Gower,
Swansea SA3 1LS
(01792 390785 / 874
www.bayholmegower.co.uk
SC
Caswell Holiday Chalets
& Gower Coast Ltd
Summercliffe Chalet Park, Gower,
Swansea SA3 3BR
(01792 233599
www.gowercoast.com
SC
Westernside Bungalows
Horton, Gower, Swansea SA3 1LL
(01792 511734
gowergirl@sky.com
SC
Cedi Cottages
Blaen Cedi Farm, Blue Anchor,
Penclawdd, Swansea SA4 3LX
(01792 851448
www.walesgowercottages.co.uk
SC
Highmead
Overton, Port Eynon, Swansea SA3 1NR
(01792 390300
www.highmeadgower.co.uk
SC
Ash Cottage
Oxwich, Gower, Swansea SA3 1LS
(01792 391207
www.gower-cottages.co.uk
SC
The Cross
Llangennith, Gower, Swansea SA3 1HU
(01792 390000
www.thecrossgower.co.uk
L
Accommodati on i n the Gower Area
visitswanseabay.com | 17
Whiteshell Chalets
Summercliffe Chalet Park, Caswell,
Swansea SA3 3BP
(01792 424186
www.caswell-chalet.co.uk
SC
Green Meadows Annexe
Green Meadows, 23 Tirmynydd Rd,
Three Crosses, Swansea SA4 3PP
(01792 873781
b.morris781@btinternet.com
SC
The Penthouse
24 Woodridge Court, Langland,
Swansea SA3 4TH
(01792 535309
www.gowerbreaks.com
SC
The Haven
Rectory Meadows, Reynoldston,
Swansea SA3 1AD
(01792 535309
www.gowerbreaks.com
SC
Gower Activity Centres
Group Accommodation
(YHA Partner)
Port Eynon, Rhossili & West Cross
(01792 401548
www.goweractivitycentres.org.uk
AcA / B / GA
31 Gower Holiday Village
Scurlage, Nr Port Eynon, Gower,
Swansea SA3 1AY
(01432 760963
www.31gowerholidayvillage.co.uk
SC
The Stable
Ash Tree Cottage, Penmaen, Gower,
Swansea SA3 2HQ
(01792 371459
www.thestableashtreecottage.
talktalk.net
SC
Hael Farm Cottages
Hael Farm, Hael Lane, Southgate,
Swansea SA3 2AP
(01792 232797
www.haelfarmcottages.co.uk
L SC
Horton Farmhouse
Horton Farm, Horton, Gower,
Swansea SA3 1LB
(01792 390256
www.hortonfarmgower.co.uk
SC
Slade Barn
Bettis Meadow, Slade, Gower,
Swansea SA3 1NA
(01792 391551
www.sladebarngower.co.uk
SC
Three Cliffs Bay
Holiday Cottages
North Hills Farm, Penmaen,
Swansea SA3 2HB
(01792 371218
www.threecliffsbay.com
AG SC
Pitton Cross Farm
Pitton Cross, Rhossili, Gower,
Swansea SA3 1PH
(01792 391175
www.pittoncrossfarmhouse.co.uk
SC
Tir-Cethin Farm
Luxury Barn Holidays
Tir-Cethin Farm, Three Crosses,
Gower, Swansea SA4 3NA
(07876 030985
www.tircethinfarm.co.uk
SC
Frogs Hop Cottage
Oxwich, South Gower, Swansea SA3 1LS
(07968 494440
frogshopcottage@gmail.com
SC
Bank Farm Bungalows
Bank Farm Leisure Park, Horton,
Gower, Swansea SA3 1LL
(01792 390228
www.bankfarmleisure.co.uk
SC
Gower Holiday Village
Scurlage, Nr Port Eynon, Gower,
Swansea SA3 1AY
(01792 390431
www.gowerholidayvillage.co.uk
SC
Bank Farm Leisure Park
Horton, Gower, Swansea SA3 1LL
(01792 390228
www.bankfarmleisure.co.uk
HTC
Greenways of Gower
Oxwich Green, South Gower,
Swansea SA3 1LY
(01792 391203
www.greenwaysleisure.co.uk
HC
Scamperholidays
North Hills Farm, North Hills Lane,
Penmaen, Gower, Swansea SA3 2HB
(01792 202325
www.scamperholidays.co.uk
SP APP AA
Pitton Cross Caravan
and Camping Park
Rhossili, Swansea SA3 1PT
(01792 390593
www.pittoncross.co.uk
18 | visitswanseabay.com
Wales Coast Path
www.walescoastpath.gov.uk
Rhossili National Trust
Shop & Visitor Centre
3 Coastguard Cottages, Rhossili,
Gower, Swansea SA3 1PR
(01792 390707
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/
rhossili-shop-and-visitor-centre
Gower Activity Centres
Port Eynon, Rhossili & West Cross
(01792 401548
www.goweractivitycentres.org.uk
Parc-le-Breos
Pony Trekking
Parc-le-Breos House, Parkmill,
Gower, Swansea SA3 2HA
(01792 371636
www.parclebreos.co.uk
Pennard Golf Club
2 Southgate Road, Southgate,
Swansea SA3 2BT
(01792 233131
www.pennardgolfclub.com
Dryad Bushcraft
Gower, Swansea
(01792 547213
www.dryadbushcraft.co.uk
Gower Heritage Centre
Parkmill, Gower Peninsula,
Swansea SA3 2EH
(01792 371206
www.gowerheritagecentre.co.uk
Surf GSD Gower Surfing
PO Box 83, Swansea SA3 4XX
(07739 536122
www.gowersurfing.com
Welsh Surfing Federation
Surf School
Llangennith, Swansea SA3 1JD
(01792 386426
www.wsfsurfschool.co.uk
Oxwich Watersports
The Beach Hut, Oxwich Beach,
Oxwich, Swansea SA3 1LS
(07740 284079
www.oxwichwatersports.co.uk
Gower Coast Adventures
Boat Trips
Gower, Swansea
(01792 348229
www.gowercoastadventures.co.uk
Attracti ons & Acti vi ti es i n the Gower Area
visitswanseabay.com | 19
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Ri di ng hi gh at Rhossi l i
Weve always known that our beaches
were world-beaters, but its nice to have
some further proof. Big, beautiful Rhossili
was voted the best beach in the UK and the
third best in Europe by TripAdvisor users in
2013. Not only that, but the Radio Times
also gave it a stellar must-visit rating,
describing it as a pristine bay the place
to come for watersports. Sea kayakers,
surfers and kite boarders dont need to
jostle for space along the three mile
stretch of water.
The perfect spot for seaside strolls, nature
spotting and pulse pounding watersports,
Rhossili is a real crowd pleaser. Not that
it ever feels crowded on this spacious,
sweeping expanse of shoreline. Worms
Head Gowers own lands end lies at
one extreme, the lush tidal island of Burry
Holms at the other. In between, youll find
mile upon mile of immaculate sand, the
ultimate blank canvas for your own
personal seaside adventure.
Maki ng waves
When i t comes to sea and sand,
we have i t i n spades
(
and buckets
)
.
The gorgeous Gower Peninsula is home
to a raft of chart-toppi ng beaches.
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Coast wi th the most
Rhossili is just one of many bathing beauties
along its south and west coasts. There are
no less than 39 miles of bays and beaches
studded along the Peninsula. Plenty of these
are award winners too our trophy cabinet
is bulging with an impressive collection of
Blue Flag, Rural Seaside, Green Coast and
Seaside Awards, plus more best beach
accolades from newspapers, magazine
and websites. Oh, and three-quarters of
the coast is in the care of the National Trust.
Isnt it good to know that some things will
never change?
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Off the beaten track
The nooks and crannies of Gowers coast conceal a treasure
chest of secrets. Pebbly Pwll Du Bay can only be reached via
footpath. Be ready to walk for up to an hour but the reward is
total seclusion and some of the Peninsulas best bird watching.
Pretty Three Cliffs Bay isnt quite so remote, but its
Michelin-star views and combination of rolling dunes,
sandy beach and craggy limestone cliffs add up to one
of Gowers wildest seaside experiences.
Tales of smuggling and the supernatural loom large in isolated
Brandy Coves history. The pirates and witches have long gone,
but the rugged bay still holds a powerful air of mystery.
Ki ddi ng around
The rockpools at Bracelet Bay and Limeslade Bay, the duo
of intimate coves close to Mumbles, will enthral explorers of
all ages. Crabs, starfish and sea anemones are just a few of
the beasties youll encounter on your own miniature marine
safari. Sandy Port Eynon and Oxwich are two more family
favourites, perfect for those classic, timeless seaside activities.
There are sandcastles to be built (and a real one to visit at
Oxwich), ice-creams to be eaten and waves to be ridden.
Some things never go out of fashion.
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The beauti ful south
Langland Bay and Caswell Bay are two more
Gower gems strung out along the Peninsulas
south coast. Theyre a pair of sheltered, perfectly
formed sandy crescents Langland even comes
with its row of charming beach huts, a lovely
period touch.
Up north
What a difference five miles makes. North Gower
might well be on another planet. Youre not quite
sure where land meets sea on this misty, moody
expanse of low-lying saltings. The sheep seem
to know, mind you. Youll see them grazing on
marshland. Gower saltmarsh lamb is some of the
best in the world. For seafood fans, Penclawdd
cockles, picked fresh from the beds and taken
straight to Swansea Market, are pretty
good too.
Paws for thought
We think that the whole family should be able
to enjoy our stunning seaside and that includes
the four-legged members. Dogs are welcome all
year round on many of Gowers beaches. Rhossili
was even named the UKs top dog friendly beach
by The Times. Phew, yet another accolade.
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Li sten up
I t s a uni que mi x of ol d school seasi de
and cosmopol i tan cool . Mumbl es has pl enty
to shout about.
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Mumbles is the kind of neighbour wed
all like to have. Just five miles from
Swansea, the former fishing village is a true
one of a kind seaside resort and must visit
companion to its big brother along the Bay.
A short drive or walk, or bike ride along
the Bay brings you to a pretty little seafront,
complete with boatyard, bustling promenade,
pier and a personality all its own.
Deci si on ti me
Do you want the classic seaside experience
all frothy milkshakes and end of the pier fun?
Or are you looking for winding streets packed
with art galleries, buzzy boutiques, classy
craft shops and tasty bistros? In Mumbles,
you dont have to choose.
Appearing side by side in happy harmony
on the Mumbles menu are crazy golf and
buckets and spades for the kids, plus chic
shopping and a cool, contemporary feel for
the grown ups. Weve also got four proper
Italian ice cream parlours that always go
down well with young and old alike. Youd
struggle to find Mumbles quirky qualities and
perky personality anywhere else. No wonder
were so fond of it. Youll like it too.
Somethi ng ol d, somethi ng new
Mumbles long heritage stretches back
further than its prom and Victorian pier.
Take the delightfully named Oystermouth
Castle, a medieval stronghold perched on
a hill above the rooftops with big bayside
views. Always a handsome beast, this
fantastic fortress has recently received
something of a facelift. Previously unseen
areas of the castle are now open to the
public, with visitors getting a birds eye view
from a stunning glass bridge. Its another
example of Mumbles knack of blending
yesterday with today.
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T
he beach goes on
Sitting at the gateway to Gower, Mumbles
is the ideal jumping off point to explore the
Peninsulas beautiful beaches. Venture round
the headland at the end of the Promenade
and youll find rockpool dotted Bracelet Bay.
Walk a little further and youre soon in the
twin sandy surf paradises of Langland Bay
and Caswell Bay. Keen explorers can strike
further into Gower with a bouncy boat trip to
Port Eynon or the spectacular lands end
of W
orms Head.
Top tip: keep your eyes peeled for
porpoises and seals along the way.
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Tides Reach
388 Mumbles Road, Swansea SA3 5TN
(01792 404877
info@tidesreachguesthouse.com
GA
Langland Road
Bed and Breakfast
17 Langland Road, Mumbles,
Swansea SA3 4ND
(01792 361170
www.langlandroad.co.uk
BB
Langland Bay House
Bed & Breakfast
27 Langland Bay House,
Langland Bay Road,
Swansea SA3 4QP
(01792 367241
enquiries@langlandbayhouse.com
BB
Park Villa Luxury Breaks
Park Villa, 21D Langland Road,
Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4ND
(07970 545459
morgan.store@btconnect.com
SC
Home from Home
Holiday Cottages
101 Newton Road, Mumbles,
Swansea SA3 4BN
(01792 360624
www.homefromhome.com
AG SC
Gold Star Holidays
Unit 9 Castleton Walk,
26 Newton Road, Mumbles,
Swansea SA3 4AX
(01792 360555
www.goldstarholidaylettings.co.uk
AG SC
Gower Getaways
162 Newton Road, Newton,
Swansea SA3 4UD
(01792 369694
www.gowergetaways.co.uk
SC
Driftwood Chalet
Limeslade, Mumbles,
Swansea SA3 4JP
(01792 405471
www.driftwoodchalet.co.uk
SC
Riversdale Cottage
7 Riversdale Road, Norton, Mumbles,
Swansea SA3 5PU
(07952 635815
www.riversdalecottage.co.uk
SC
Sea Breeze Holiday Chalet
16 Bridle Mews, Limeslade, Mumbles,
Swansea SA3 4JP
(07811 607141
www.mumblesgower
selfcatering.co.uk
SC
Pilton House
2 Nottage Road, Newton, Mumbles,
Swansea SA3 4SU
(01792 360624
www.homefromhome.com/
cottage-details/299#
SC
Accommodati on i n the Mumbl es Area
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Oystermouth Castle
Castle Avenue, Mumbles,
Swansea SA3 4BA
(01792 361302
www.swansea.gov.uk/
oystermouthcastle
Mumbles Tourist
Information Centre
Mumbles Methodist Church,
520b Mumbles Road, Mumbles,
Swansea SA3 4DE
(01792 361302
www.mumblesinfo.org.uk
Dragoncrafts
530 Mumbles Road, Mumbles,
Swansea SA3 4DH
(01792 360640
www.dragoncraftswales.co.uk
The Lovespoon Gallery
492 Mumbles Road, Mumbles,
Swansea SA3 4BX
(01792 360132
www.lovespoongallery.com
Attracti ons &
Acti vi ti es i n the
Mumbl es Area
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Mawr than meets the eye
Swansea Bay i snt j ust sand and surf. Mawrs moors
and upl ands are a green great escape for wal kers.
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Just north of the City Centre, Mawr is a rural area of
rolling countryside, hidden valleys and secluded woodland
offering a whole new side to multifaceted Swansea.
Best foot forward
Explore gentle trails around the reservoirs of the Lliw Valley.
Water is a big feature in these parts, even when you arent on the
coast. If youre after something more strenuous, make the climb
to Penller Castell. Its S wanseas highest point and the start of
the Gower Way a 35 mile route traversing the Peninsula from
east to west.
For a truly unique woodland walk, head to Penllergare.
This designed landscape was created in the 1800s by local
landowner John Dillwyn Llewelyn and is currently being restored
to its former glory.
Cartref Holidays
Valley View, Rhyd y Gwin,
Swansea SA6 5TE
(01792 845040
www.cartrefholidays.co.uk
SC
Accommodati on
i n the Mawr Area
Penllergare Valley Woods
Penllergaer, Swansea SA4 9GS
(01792 344224
www.penllergare.org
Attracti ons &
Acti vi ti es i n the
Mawr Area
32 | visitswanseabay.com
Green gi ants
The Afan Val l ey and Val e of Neath, l i ned wi th
woods and waterfal l s, are l ush and l eafy.
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Fal l i ng stars
The Vale of Neaths wild, wooded Waterfall
Country certainly lives up to its name. Home to
four rivers the Hepste, Mellte, Nedd and Pyrddin
and more falls per square mile than anywhere
else in Europe, the Vales steep gorges contain
some of Wales most spectacular cascades.
The deep pool at the foot of Sgw d Gwladys is
a popular spot for adventurous swimmers. If you
dont fancy getting that wet, follow the path
behind the white waters of Sgw d yr Eira literally
The Fall of Snow. You may end up a little damp,
but its a small price to pay for a real one of a kind
behind the scenes waterfall view.
Its difficult to believe that this green Vale
was once a crucible of the Industrial Revolution.
Nature is very much in charge today, but you can
see traces of mechanised heritage at Aberdulais
Tin Works and Waterfall. Tumbling waters that once
powered the busy works now provide clean, green
renewable energy plus a stunning backdrop
for this unusual National Trust attraction.
The wheel deal
Lose yourself in the steep, densely wooded landscapes of the
Afan Valley and youd be forgiven for thinking youd wandered
into the Alps. This former mining centre has replaced pit wheels
with bike wheels to become one of the UKs top mountain biking
destinations. The purpose built trails of Afan Forest Park are
an off road heaven for novices and experts alike. Take a gentle
woodland ride on the Rookie Trail or test yourself on rugged
tracks like the epic Blade Trail Afans newest addition.
Keep i t gre en
Were big on park life. Margam Country Park near Port Talbot
extends to 1,000 rolling acres, each one packed with things to
see and do. Visitors can watch herds of deer, Go Ape on a high
wire climbing adventure, stroll in the ornamental gardens or hunt
ghosts in spooky Margam Castle. At Gnoll Estate Country Park,
Neath, the natural landscape has been augmented by follies,
ponds and unusual ornamental features. Sometimes you
can improve on perfection.
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Castle Hotel
The Parade, Neath SA11 1RB
(01639 641119
www.castlehotelneath.co.uk
/ H
Bluebell Hotel
14-16 The Parade, Neath SA11 1RA
(01639 644000
www.thebluebellneath.co.uk
H
Best Western
Aberavon Beach Hotel
Princess Margaret Way, Swansea Bay,
Port Talbot SA12 6QP
(01639 884949
www.aberavonbeach.com
/ H
Cwmbach Guest House
Cwmbach Cottages,
Cwmbach Road, Cadoxton,
Neath SA10 8AH
(01639 639825
www.cwmbachguesthouse.co.uk
GH
Cwmbach Lodges
Cwmbach Cottages,
Cwmbach Road, Cadoxton,
Neath SA10 8AH
(01639 639825
www.cwmbachguesthouse.co.uk
SC
Cwmshon Cottages
Brook Cottage, Llanguicke Road,
Ynysmeudwy, Pontardawe,
Swansea SA8 4PL
(01792 865237
www.cwmshoncottageswales.co.uk
SC
Swansea Valley
Holiday Cottages
Plas Farm, Cilybebyll, Pontardawe,
Swansea SA8 3JQ
(01792 864611
www.walescottages.com
SC
1 & 2 Tan Yr Eglwys
Cilybebyll, Pontardawe,
Swansea SA8 3JR
(01792 863367
rees.lloyd@btinternet.com
SC
Glyncorrwg Ponds Campsite
Glyncorrwg Ponds Co-operative,
Ynyscorrwg Park, Glyncorrwg,
Port Talbot SA13 3EA
(01639 851900
www.glyncorrwgponds
visitorcentre.co.uk
TC
Accommodati on i n the
Afan & Val e of Neath Area
Aberdulais Tinworks
& Waterfall
National Trust, Aberdulais,
Neath SA10 8EU
(01639 636674
aberdulais@nationaltrust.org.uk
South Wales
Miners Museum
Afan Forest Park, Cynonville,
Port Talbot SA13 3HG
(01639 851833
www.swmm.co.uk
Margam Country Park
Margam, Port Talbot SA13 2TJ
(01639 881635
www.margamcountrypark.co.uk
Adventure Britain
Call of the Wild Ltd,
83 Church Road, Seven Sisters,
Neath SA10 9DT
(01639 700388
www.adventurebritain.com
Go Ape Margam
Margam Country Park,
Port Talbot SA13 2TJ
(0845 094 9639
www.goape.co.uk/margam
Dulais Valley Quads
Nant y Cafn Isaf Farm, Seven Sisters,
Neath SA10 9EU
(07854 864724
www.dulaisvalley-quads.co.uk
Attracti ons & Acti vi ti es i n the
Afan & Val e of Neath Area
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2014 Events
February
22nd 2nd Mar Pirate Week, Gower Heritage Centre
March
From 1st St Davids Week Celebrations
8th & 9th Celtic Craft Fayre, Gower Heritage Centre
Apri l
12th 27th Easter Fun, Gower Heritage Centre
19th Dungeons & Dragons Day, Oystermouth Castle
21st Margam Park Easter Fun Day
26th Gorseinon Food Festival
27th Welsh Mams Day, Cwmdonkin Park
May
1st 31st Clyne in Bloom
5th Margam Park Bank Holiday Family Fun Day
10th & 11th Cheese & Cider Weekend,
Gower Heritage Centre
23rd 26th Mumbles Marvellous Weekend,
Oystermouth Castle
23rd 26th Margam Kite Festival, Margam Park
25th & 26th Good Food Festival,
Gower Heritage Centre
26th Margam Park Bank Holiday Family Fun Day
(incorporating Kite Festival)
June
7th 22nd Gower Walking Festival
14th Festival of Transport, City Centre
15th Festival of Transport Under Milk Wood
Road Run, Bracelet Bay to Laugharne
Jul y
(Date TBC) Mumbles Raft Race
1st 12th Gower Festival, Various Churches, Gower
12th & 13th Vintage Tractor Display, Margam Park
12th & 13th Gower Dance Festival,
Gower Heritage Centre
13th 3rd Aug Swansea Bowls Festival, Victoria Park
26th 10th Aug Pirate Weeks, Gower Heritage Centre
August
1st 31st Botanics in Bloom, Botanical Gardens
at Singleton Park
3rd Gower Show
9th 16th Gower Cycling Festival
16th 22nd Dart 18 Catamaran European
Championships (Racing 18th 22nd Aug TBC),
Knab Rock, Mumbles
18th 23rd IPC Athletics European Championships
21st 23rd Swansea Bay Beer & Cider Festival
25th Margam Park Family Fun Day
September
(Date TBC) Wales Valleys Walking Festival
5th 7th Gower Bluegrass Music Festival,
Gower Heritage Centre
10th 13th Neath Fair
21st Admiral Swansea 10K
October
3rd & 4th Neath Food & Drink Festival
18th & 19th Autumn Fayre & Cider Making,
Gower Heritage Centre
19th South Wales Boat Jumble, Margam Park
23rd 26th Mumbles Oyster & Good Food Festival
27th 9th Nov Dylan Thomas Festival
29th 31st Halloween Parties,
Gower Heritage Centre
November
5th Swansea Fireworks Display
14th 4th Jan Waterfront Winterland
15th & 16th Viking re-enactment,
Gower Heritage Centre
16th Christmas Parade
22nd & 23rd Christmas Craft Fayre,
Gower Heritage Centre
December
Christmas in Swansea continues with Waterfront
Winterland and Snow White and the Seven
Dwarfs Pantomime at the Grand Theatre.
For more events go to www.visitswanseabay.comand
dont forget our Dylan Thomas centenary celebrations
the highlights are featured on pages 2 & 3.
visitswanseabay.com | 37
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By Train
National Rail enquiries
(08457 484950
www.nationalrail.co.uk
Heart of Wales Line
www.heart-of-wales.co.uk
By Coach
National Express enquiry line
(08717 818178
www.nationalexpress.com
By Car
The M4 motorway brings you directly
to Swansea Bay from London and the
South East. The M6, M5, M42 and M50
link the area with the Midlands and the
North West, North East and South
West of England.
By Air
Cardiff International Airport
(01446 711111
www.cardiff-airport.com
By Sea
Sailings operate between Rosslare
and Fishguard or Pembroke Dock,
90 minutes away from Swansea.
Irish Ferries (Pembroke)
(08717 300400
www.irishferries.com
Stena Line (Fishguard)
(08447 707070
www.stenaline.co.uk
Travel l i ng around
Swansea Bay
Traveline Cymru
(08712 002233
www.traveline-cymru.info
Park & Ride
www.swansea.gov.uk/parkandride
Must see, Must do,
Must stay !
If you would like to find out
more about the accommodation,
attractions and activities listed
please contact direct or go to their
page on www.visitswanseabay.com.
Access information is online at
www.visitswanseabay.com or
contact the accommodation,
attraction or activity to ensure
they have everything you need.
Please check with your
accommodation prior to booking
if you are bringing your pet. Dogs
are welcome on many beaches,
but some have seasonal dog bans
from 1st May to 30th September.
See www.visitswanseabay.com.
We want you to have a great
time when you visit so please
check and confirm all details
before booking or travelling.
A qual i ty experi ence
All the accommodation
featured here and on
www.visitswanseabay.com has
been independently assessed by
either Visit Wales or the AA and
each rated according to their
quality and facilities.
Touri st Informati on
Centres
Swansea
Plymouth Street, Swansea SA1 3QG
(01792 468321
tourism@swansea.gov.uk
www.visitswanseabay.com
OPEN ALL YEAR
Mumbles
(01792 361302
info@mumblestic.co.uk
OPEN ALL YEAR
Useful Info
BayTrans
Local travel information using
public transport.
www.baytrans.org.uk
Local Travel Info
Occasionally it is not possible to
assess a property prior to
publication and in these cases the
property is marked as Awaiting
Grading. All gradings and awards
were correct at time of publication.
For further information on grading
visit www.wales.gov.uk/tourism.
Pl ay safe
We want you to enjoy your time in
Swansea Bay, so make sure that
you have the proper equipment
before you begin any activity and
check the tide tables prior to any
coastal activity. The tide can turn
very quickly with strong coastal
currents for more info go to
www.visitswanseabay.com.
Please do not attempt any
activity without instruction
if you are inexperienced.
Our attraction and activity
operators take play very seriously
and as appropriate are recognised
by accrediting organisations
visit their page on
www.visitswanseabay.com
for more details.
Please mention this Swansea
Bay Holiday Guide when you
make your booking.
Thank you!
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