Swansea Tourist Information Centre (01792 468321 *Tourism@Swansea.Gov.Uk Open All Year Other Tics / Visitor Centres

Attractions coveroutside2014:Layout 1 04/03/2014 14:14 Page 1 Finding Out

Swansea Tourist Information Centre (01792 468321 *tourism@swansea.gov.uk Open all year Other TICs / Visitor Centres

Image Credits and Copyrights Mumbles & Gower Mountain Biker p9: Cognation, Rhossili (01792 361302 Nat Trust p11: NTPL/John Millar, Blue *[email protected] Plaque p14: 5 Cwmdonkin Drive, Glynn Open all year Vivian Art Gallery p22: Powell Dobson Architects, Penllergare Valley Woods p29: National Trust Visitor Centre Richard Hanson, Walkers at Three Cliffs Coastguard Cottages, Rhossili, Gower, Bay p33: Visit Wales © Crown Copyright Swansea SA3 1PR (01792 390707 The Council of the City & County of Swansea cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this brochure and accepts no Useful Contacts responsibility for any error or misrepresentation, liability for loss, disappointment, negligence or other damage Swansea Mobility Hire caused by the reliance on the information Swansea City Bus Station, contained in this brochure unless caused by Plymouth St, the negligent act or omission of the Council. Swansea SA1 3AR Please check and confirm all details before (01792 461785 booking or travelling. Coastguard This publication is available in (01792 366534 alternative formats. Contact Swansea Tourist Information Published by the City & County of Centre (01792 468321. Swansea © Copyright 2014 A&A cover2014 inside:Layout 1 04/03/2014 14:10 Page 1

Swansea Bay Mumbles, Gower, Afan and The Vale of Neath

Scale Key to beach awards 0 6 km Blue Flag and Seaside Award Seaside Award 0 3 miles

This map is based on digital photography licensed from NRSC Ltd. © City and County of Swansea 2014 visitswanseabay.com Contents

02 Introduction 04 Adventure 09 Cycling 10 Discover 12 Dylan Thomas 14 Dylan Thomas Events 18 Entertainment 19 Events Diary 21 Fishing 22 Galleries 23 Golf 24 Heritage 27 Horse Riding 28 Parks & Gardens 30 Shopping 32 Walking 35 Watersports & Swimming 39 Getting About Finding Out & Area Map (back cover)

visitswanseabay.com 1 Introduction

What’s the attraction? Make the most of your visit to Swansea Bay, Mumbles and Gower with this great Guide jam-packed with exciting activities and fun places to visit. From historic to horticultural to exotic and energetic - and that’s just in the city centre itself. Swansea’s home to the oldest and newest museums in Wales - and they’re next door to each other! Not forgetting the award winning botanics, tropical hothouse with aquariums, animals and amphibians and indoor surfing! And with its snug spot on the shoreline, you can be beside the seaside in a few minutes. Whether you want to surf, swim or simply just spend some time on the sand - there’s a reason why we’re a Watersports Centre of Excellence. We’re also home to the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the glorious Gower Peninsula - walk it, bike it or just sit back, relax and enjoy the fantastic views, there’s plenty to choose from! Savvy shopper? Head for Swansea’s bustling city centre, where you’ll find big names, big bargains and Wales’ biggest indoor market - tuck into some local produce, try fresh cockles and laverbread (it’s seaweed!) and warm welshcakes. For fine dining, take to the Marina and its stylish sister, SA1, enjoy cosy cuisine and wonderful waterfront views.

2 visitswanseabay.com Make the most of Mumbles Follow the five mile sweep of Swansea Bay ‘til you reach the cosmopolitan corner of Mumbles. A seaside village with a stand alone spirit. Capture its colourful charm from the promenade and pier, the bistros and boutiques, and the cafés and medieval castle. Go green, go Gower Explore 39 miles of captivating coastline and countryside. Ramble atop rugged limestone cliffs, undercover a cluster of castles or simply wander at the waters edge - a breathtaking backdrop is a given.

Check out this Guide for heritage, adventure and entertainment, and begin a great day in Swansea Bay. But with so much choice, you’d best book for a week, or at the very least come back tomorrow!

Whatever you do, we want you to have fun and play safe (see p40).

visitswanseabay.com 3 Adventure

Catch a glimpse of the Gower Coast on a wild white water ride, set your sights high and take a tree top adventure, or for fast-paced fun, kart your way around our exciting indoor karting track! Get dirty at the muddiest assault course ever; go mountain biking, quad biking or paintballing. Want to have a go but not sure how? Our multi-activity providers have the gear and the know-how. Try abseiling, coasteering, kayaking, climbing and bushcraft - what are you waiting for?

Adventure Britain Call of the Wild Ltd. 83 Church Road, Seven Sisters, Neath SA10 9DT Adventure Britain offer great ideas for outdoor activity breaks, adventure holidays, family activities, stag weekends, hen weekends, team building including canyoning, climbing & caving. Open daily, all year, hours depend on activity- please contact.

www.adventurebritain.com (01639 700388 Clyne Farm Riding and Activity Centre Clyne Farm, Westport Ave, Swansea SA3 5AR Your one stop for activities for all ages and abilities, stag and hen, riding, climbing, archery, quads, clay pigeon, surfing, Challenge Valley - the muddiest assault course in the world! Open daily, all year, 10am-6pm.

[email protected] (01792 403333 4 visitswanseabay.com Down to Earth 72a Manselfield Road, Murton, Swansea SA3 3AP Down to Earth is an award winning not-for-profit education and adventure activity organisation offering a wide range of practical outdoor experiences in Swansea and on the Gower Peninsula. Open daily, all year, 10am-5pm. www.downtoearthproject.org.uk (01792 232439 Dryad Bushcraft Gower

Dryad Bushcraft is one of the UK's leading Bushcraft and Wilderness Survival training organisations. As featured on Channel 4's 'Time Team' and BBC 'Wales in Four Seasons'. Open all year, prior booking required. See website for details. www.dryadbushcraft.co.uk (01792 547213 Dulais Valley Quads Nant y Cafn Isaf Farm, Seven Sisters, Neath SA10 9EU Take your breath away with the adventure and thrill of navigating the latest Honda 250cc quad bikes through 175 acres of hills, woodland, streams and mud. Open all year, prior booking needed. www.dulaisvalley-quads.co.uk (07854 864724

visitswanseabay.com 5 Dynamic Rock Adventures Ltd 16 - 18 Hebron Road, Clydach, Swansea SA6 5EJ Dynamic Rock is a dedicated climbing centre, great for both beginners and advanced climbers. We offer Kids Birthday Parties, Taster Sessions and Courses for those that catch the bug! Open daily, all year, Mon-Fri 2pm-10pm, Sat & Sun 10am-6pm.

[email protected] (01792 845655 Go Ape Margam Margam Country Park, Port Talbot SA13 2TJ Go Ape is the UK's No.1 Tree Top Adventure at Margam Park. We brief you for safety before you fly down zip-wires, leap off our Tarzan Swing and tackle our obstacles whilst enjoying breath-taking scenery (Min. Age 10 years). Open daily Feb-Nov, 9am-5pm.

www.goape.co.uk/margam (0845 094 9639 Gower Activity Centres Port Eynon, Rhossili & West Cross Gower Activity Centres specialise in delivering the very best in outdoor activity experiences for groups of all types on the Gower Peninsula. Challenging and fun for all ages and abilities. Open daily, all year, 9am-5pm.

www.goweractivitycentres.org.uk (01792 401548

6 visitswanseabay.com Gower Coast Adventures Gower

Gower Coast Adventures provides breathtaking, interactive boat tours of the South Gower Coast, leaving our passengers with unforgettable memories. Open daily, Mar-Oct, 8am-8pm. www.gowercoastadventures.co.uk (01792 348229 Skidz Karting Ltd Unit 1 Rear of Queensway, Swansea West Business Park, Swansea SA5 4DJ Swansea's only indoor karting track! Arrive & Drive, Birthday parties, Stag/Hen parties and corporate team building events all catered for. With karts for all ages and abilities from 4yrs+. Open daily, all year, please contact for opening hours. www.skidzkarting.co.uk (01792 580927 Teamforce Paintball & Activity Centre Llangyfelach Road, Swansea SA5 7PE Located only 1.5 miles off J46/M4, with 15 acres of purpose built Paintball zones TEAMFORCE is the ideal destination for an action packed adventure day for Paintball, Archery and Air Rifle. Open daily, all year, 10am-4pm. www.teamforceuk.com (01792 772311

visitswanseabay.com 7 8 visitswanseabay.com Cycling

Want traffic free routes with great views? We’ve got lots! Cycle along Swansea Bay Prom to Mumbles (you can even stop for an ice cream along the way!). Many of our routes are part of the Celtic Trail and National Cycle Network. But if you’re more of a mountain biker, head to Afan Forest Park. It’s got a worldwide reputation for exhilaration, but families and newbies can go for the green trails, still a challenger - but it’s the views that will be taking your breath away.

visitswanseabay.com 9 Discover

Unlock Gower’s hidden histories at the National Trust Centre, Rhossili. Or delve into your past and discover your ancestors in our historical archives. Exploring the present is easy too! Head to our Tourist Information Centres for information and local gifts, then sit back and relax on a river cruise.

Swansea Tourist Information Centre Plymouth Street, Swansea SA1 3QG Your one-stop shop for Swansea, Mumbles and Gower: booking accommodation, advice on how to get here and information on places to visit, to eat and local events. We can also help with event tickets, maps and gifts. Open all year, Mon-Sat 9:30am-5:30pm.

www.visitswanseabay.com (01792 468321 Mumbles & Gower Tourist Information Centre Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4DH Call in or phone us, and our friendly staff will be happy to introduce you to our lovely area, help you find somewhere to stay, eat or visit, and advise you about maps and books. Open all year, Mon-Sat, opening times variable.

www.mumblesinfo.org.uk (01792 361302

10 visitswanseabay.com Rhossili National Trust Shop & Visitor Centre Rhossili, Gower SA3 1PR Perched above the majestic Rhossili Bay and within sight of Worm's Head, the National Trust Shop and Visitor Centre is a must for any visitor to Gower. Open daily, all year (closed Monday in low season). See website for details. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ rhossili-shop-and-visitor-centre (01792 390707 Swansea Community Boat Trust River Tawe Boat Cruises

The Swansea Community Boat offers a truly unique opportunity for both visitors to Swansea and locals alike to take a trip up the historic River Tawe. Open daily, Mar - Dec. See website for details. www.scbt.org.uk (07785 347549 West Glamorgan Archive Service Civic Centre, Oystermouth Road, Swansea SA1 3SN Visit us to research your family and local history and discover a range of books, cards and gifts for sale with a unique local flavour. Open all year, Tue 9am-7pm, Wed-Fri 9am-5pm. www.swansea.gov.uk/ westglamorganarchives (01792 636589

visitswanseabay.com 11 Dylan Thomas

2014 is a special year for Swansea and Wales as we mark the centenary of the birth of Dylan Thomas in his home town and the wider world. The Dylan Thomas Centre is at the hub of the celebrations, hosting many of the events and of course, the Man and Myth exhibition. One of the highlights will be a unique exhibition which features Dylan’s famous notebooks, released by the University of Buffalo for this special celebration of his life and work in his hometown. Take a guided tour in the poet’s footsteps; visit his city sights and childhood haunts. Cwmdonkin Park is where Dylan played as a boy and is the setting for ‘Hunchback in the Park’; nearby his birthplace and childhood home is a place caught in time - for an hour or two step back into Dylan’s world - see his Mam’s best parlour and the little bedroom where his imagination caught fire.

Dylan Thomas Birthplace 5 Cwmdonkin Drive, Uplands, Swansea SA2 0RA Come and enjoy Dylan's world with a tour of this living house where he was born, wrote and lived for over half his life. For a special treat stay overnight or indulge in an Edwardian dinner. Open daily, all year, 10:30am-4:30pm.

[email protected] (01792 472555 12 visitswanseabay.com Cwmdonkin Park Swansea SA2 0RA

Cwmdonkin Park, Swansea's hidden treasure with links to Dylan Thomas. Featuring a new café, improved play area, signage and with an exciting events programme. Open all year. www.cwmdonkinpark.co.uk (01792 205327 Annie from Wales Tour Guide & Dylan Thomas Specialist

Anne Haden is an accredited Tourist Guide specialising in Dylan Thomas, Swansea and South Wales with over twenty years experience of working in the tourism industry. Available all year. www.anniefromwales.com (07817 753376 Dylan Thomas Centre Somerset Place, Swansea SA1 1RR The Dylan Thomas Centre is the definitive starting point for fans and enthusiasts wanting to discover more about the life and times of Swansea’s most famous son. Open daily, all year, 10am-4:30pm. www.dylanthomas.com (01792 463980

visitswanseabay.com 13 Dylan Thomas Events

Dramatic, funny, informative; the events line-up is impressive. The year long programme includes theatre, opera, music, unique exhibitions and guided tours. And of course, features new interpretations of Dylan’s work, including the famous Under Milk Wood. See the highlights on pages 16 & 17, but for a full and up to date list of Dylan Thomas 2014 events visit www.dylanthomas.com - and see the story unfold.

14 visitswanseabay.com www.dylanthomas.com

visitswanseabay.com 15 April 3rd - 5th Under Milk Wood: an opera 27th Welsh Mam’s Day May 10th Under Milk Wood Day 17th Return Journey, promenade performance, with Lighthouse Theatre Company 26th Reminiscences of Childhood 31st May - 31st Aug Dylan Thomas Notebooks Exhibition June 7th Dylan Thomas’ War: the Pacifist, the Propagandist and the Swansea Blitz 13th Dylan Thomas Walk 28th Dylanathon - Photo Marathon July 5th & 6th Return Journey, promenade performance, with Lighthouse Theatre Company 10th Stan Tracey’s Under Milk Wood Jazz Suite 12th Dylan Thomas’ Swansea Uplands: the Boy and the Young Dog 19th Dylan Thomas’ Swansea Hollywood: the Mummy and the Old Dark House August 2nd & 3rd Return Journey, promenade performance, with Lighthouse Theatre Company 10th, 17th, 24th & 31st Guided Tours - Dylan’s Swansea, with Fluellen Theatre Company

16 visitswanseabay.com September 5th - 24th Dec Dylan Thomas Manuscripts Exhibition 6th The Green Fuse Festival 6th Dylan Thomas, the Kardomah Gang, the Actor and the Comedian 14th Guided Tour - Dylan’s Swansea, with Fluellen Theatre Company October 3rd & 4th Time Let Me Play 11th Oct - Feb 2015 Dylan Thomas by Alfred Janes 11th Wales Premiere of A Dylan Thomas Trilogy 18th Russian State Philharmonic Orchestra 19th - 28th The Beginning 24th - 26th Do Not Go Gentle Festival 27th - 9th Nov Dylan Thomas Festival November 4th - 8th A Child's Christmas in Wales 9th Guided Tours - Dylan’s Swansea, with Fluellen Theatre Company

This is just a selection of events, for more information on these and many more go to www.dylanthomas.com

visitswanseabay.com 17 Entertainment

A grand night out. Enjoy drama, music, comedy, opera and dance. Our theatres have so much to offer - from summer rep to Christmas panto. Take it outside. Our events programme does just that - check out the Events Diary opposite.

Swansea Grand Theatre Singleton Street, Swansea SA1 3QJ A cultural gem in the heart of Swansea. The theatre provides an exciting programme of live events as well as an eclectic mix of performances and exhibitions in its Arts Wing. Open all year, see website for details.

www.swanseagrand.co.uk (01792 475715

18 visitswanseabay.com Events Diary April 12th - 27th Easter Fun at the Gower Heritage Centre 19th Dungeons & Dragons Day, Oystermouth Castle 21st Margam Park Easter Fun Day 26th Gorseinon Food Festival 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 - Laugharne) July 1st - 12th Gower Festival, Various Churches, Gower 12th & 13th Vintage Tractor Display, Margam Park 12th & 13th Gower Dance Festival, Gower Heritage Centre 13th July - 3rd Aug Swansea Bowls Festival, Victoria Park 26th July - 10th Aug Pirate Weeks, Gower Heritage Centre

For more events go to visitswanseabay.com and don’t forget our Dylan Thomas 2014 centenary celebrations - the highlights are featured on pages 16 & 17.

visitswanseabay.com 19 Events Diary August 1st - 31st Botanics in Bloom 3rd Gower Show 9th - 16th Gower Cycling Festival 16th - 22nd (18th - 22nd Aug Racing) Dart 18 Catamaran European Championships , Knab Rock, Mumbles 18th - 23rd IPC Athletics European Championships 21st - 23rd Swansea Bay Beer & Cider Festival 25th Margam Park Family Fun Day September 5th - 7th Gower Bluegrass Music Festival, Gower Heritage Centre 10th - 13th Neath Fair 21st Admiral Swansea 10K October 3rd & 4th Neath Food Festival 18th - 19th Autumn Fayre & Cider Making, Gower Heritage Centre 23rd - 26th Mumbles Oyster & Good Food Festival 27th Oct - 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 at the Gower Heritage Centre 16th Christmas Parade 22nd & 23rd Christmas Craft Fayre, Gower Heritage Centre December Christmas in Swansea continues with Waterfront Winterland and Pantomime at the Grand Theatre 20 visitswanseabay.com Fishing

Charter a boat from Swansea Marina and take to the high seas or visit our local lakes and fisheries - they offer bream and excellent carp fishing. Sea, rock, coarse; Swansea has a choice of places where you can cast your line. Fish for bass at Worm’s Head and then take it home for supper!

visitswanseabay.com 21 Galleries

We’ve got a creative side. From the Maritime Quarter to Mumbles; craft shops (we’ve even got a Lovespoon Gallery), art and photographic galleries offer the best in local work. Go and see for yourself. Gower - capture it on canvas or on camera - and then in your memory.

Glynn Vivian Art Gallery – Offsite Activities at YMCA, Swansea Events at various venues Glynn Vivian Art Gallery is currently closed for redevelopment and will reopen in 2015. The Gallery presents an exciting exhibition and lively activities programme while off-site. Open daily, all year. See website for details.

www.glynnviviangallery.org (01792 516900 The Lovespoon Gallery 492 Mumbles Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BX Since 1987, the original lovespoon gallery offers hundreds of designs from individual carvers. Our beautiful handcarved Welsh Lovespoons are the perfect souvenir or memento for all special occasions. Open all year, Mon-Sat 10am-5:30pm, (Nov & Jan 5pm).

www.lovespoongallery.com (01792 360132

22 visitswanseabay.com Golf

Don’t let our breathtaking views put you off your shot! Tee off against the backdrop of beautiful bays and rugged cliffs from our parkland, moorland and links courses. The course at Pennard is 200 feet above sea level. No wonder it’s known as ‘the links in the sky’.

Pennard Golf Club 2 Southgate Road, Southgate, Swansea SA3 2BT Pennard is a magnificent links course situated 8 miles west of Swansea, with spectacular views over Three Cliffs Bay on the Gower Peninsula. 6809 yards Par 72. Open daily, all year, daylight hours. www.pennardgolfclub.com (01792 233131

visitswanseabay.com 23 Heritage

Interested in time travel? You don’t have to be Dr Who. Go back to pre-history (Swansea Museum shows you the way) then work your way back to the future. On the way, stop off at medieval castles and a 12th century watermill. Discover how we were a crucible for change in the Industrial Revolution fed by our ‘black gold’ and how war changed our city. And pull all the timelines together at the National Waterfront Museum. An epic journey.

National Waterfront Museum Oystermouth Road, Swansea SA1 3RD

The National Waterfront Museum tells the human story of Welsh industry and innovation now, and over the past 300 years. Using interactive technology, the Museum puts you in charge of the experience, allowing you to delve as deeply into the displays as you want. Prepare to explore lots of audio visual exhibits and some very large historic objects from across the country. Open daily, 10am-5pm. www.museumwales.ac.uk ((029) 2057 3600 24 visitswanseabay.com Aberdulais Tinworks & Waterfall Aberdulais, Neath SA10 8EU Step back into the lives of Victorian men, women and children, who helped South Wales start an industrial revolution which shaped the world. Dogs on leads welcome. Fun for the whole family! Open daily, Mar-Oct. Visit website for winter opening hours. [email protected] (01639 636674 Gower Heritage Centre Parkmill, Gower, Swansea SA3 2EH Based around an 800 year old corn and saw mill, powered by a working water wheel. Tea rooms, craft workshops, children's play areas, animal park, woollen mill & La Charrette cinema. Open daily, all year, 10am-5pm. www.gowerheritagecentre.co.uk (01792 371206 Oystermouth Castle Castle Avenue, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BA Come and explore parts of the castle that have been hidden away for centuries and learn about the castle's exciting history. Look out for events throughout the year. Open daily, Apr-Sep, 11am-5pm. www.swansea.gov.uk/oystermouthcastle (01792 361302

visitswanseabay.com 25 South Wales Miners’ Museum Afan Forest Park, Cynonville, Port Talbot SA13 3HG Visit this award winning museum in the Afan Valley and take a journey back in time. An eye opener for the young and reminiscence for the older generation the museum has something for all. Open all year, daily Easter-Oct, open Tue-Sun and Bank Hols Nov-Easter, 10am-4pm.

www. swmm.co.uk (01639 851833 Swansea Museum Victoria Road, Maritime Quarter, Swansea SA1 1SN Swansea Museum gives visitors a glimpse of local life, past, present and future! Plus exciting temporary exhibitions, events and workshops. Open all year, Tue-Sun, 10am-5pm.

www.swanseamuseum.co.uk (01792 653763 1940's Swansea Bay Museum Baldwin's Crescent, Crymlyn Burrows, Swansea SA1 8PT Visit our indoor 1940's street for the sights and sounds of Wartime Britain. 1940's clothes to try on. Fun for all ages! Shop & Café. Admission charge. Open daily, all year, 10am-4pm.

www.1940sswanseabay.co.uk (01792 458864

26 visitswanseabay.com Horse Riding

Gallop your way around the Bay, from the coast to the countryside. Head to the hills for a more relaxed ride or take to the beach and experience the excitement of riding through the surf. Set your own pace.

Parc-le-Breos Pony Trekking Parc-le-Breos House, Parkmill, Gower, Swansea SA3 2HA Explore Gower's beautiful scenery on horse back. Relaxed riding suitable for all abilities even first timers! Day rides with lunch stops at picturesque country pubs. Riding breaks available. Open daily, all year, 8am-10pm. www.parclebreos.co.uk (01792 371636

visitswanseabay.com 27 Parks & Gardens

Picnic and promenade in the park, we have lots to choose from. Head to Margam Park where little ones will love feeding the deer or explore the secret and magical Penllergare Valley Woods. Check out Clyne Gardens, internationally famous for its superb collections of Rhododendrons, Pieris and Enkianthus. Don’t miss Clyne in Bloom in May and Botanics in Bloom at Singleton Park in August. For indoor family fun, head for Plantasia, a tropical hothouse with aquariums, amphibians and animals.

Margam Country Park Margam, Port Talbot SA13 2TJ Set in 1000 acres of glorious parklands, Margam Country Park offers beauty, history, wildlife and wide range of facilities to make it one of the best days out in Wales for all the family. Open daily, all year, opening hours vary with season.

www.margamcountrypark.co.uk (01639 881635

28 visitswanseabay.com Penllergare Valley Woods Penllergaer, Swansea SA4 9GS Penllergare Valley Woods, just off J47 of the M4, with its lakes and waterfalls, terraces, panoramic views and exotic trees - this 'forgotten' Victorian paradise is undergoing restoration. Woods open daily, all year. See website for Visitor Centre opening information. www.penllergare.org (01792 344224 Plantasia Parc Tawe, Swansea SA1 2AL

A superb all weather attraction in the heart of Swansea, Plantasia is a tropical paradise in a unique glass pyramid which is just bursting with plants and animals. Open daily, all year, 10am-5pm. www.plantasia.org (01792 474555 Swansea Parks and Gardens

Parks and green spaces are plentiful in Swansea with over 52 areas to complement its coastline. With a variety of special events throughout the year, there is something for everyone. Open all year. www.breatheswansea.com (01792 468321

visitswanseabay.com 29 Shopping

Swansea’s savvy shoppers head for the city centre - a retail hub with high street, designer and boutique brands. Stop off for a spot of home grown produce in the Market - it’s the largest in Wales! Try local delicacies such as cockles and laverbread (it’s seaweed!) or warm welshcakes straight from the bakestone. Head west and check out the cosmopolitan corner of Mumbles, a treasure trove for shoppers. Stroll the streets packed with chic boutiques and bistros, trendy surf shops, art galleries and gift emporiums.

Swansea Market Oxford Street, Swansea SA1 3PQ Enjoy a shopping experience like no other at Swansea Market. A traditional Market hall in the heart of the City Centre with over 100 stalls offering quality, variety and value for money. Open all year, Mon-Fri 8am-5:30pm, Sat 7:30am-5:30pm.

www.swanseaindoormarket.co.uk (01792 654296 Dragoncrafts 530 Mumbles Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4DH Dragoncrafts offers the very best Welsh giftware and souvenirs including the award winning Clogau Gold jewellery, hand-carved love spoons, t-shirts, flags and gifts for all occasions. Open daily, all year, 10am-5pm.

www.dragoncraftswales.co.uk (01792 360640 30 visitswanseabay.com visitswanseabay.com 31 Walking

You really can walk your socks off here! The Wales Coast Path includes 51 miles of coastal walks in Swansea Bay, 39 of which are the glorious Gower Coast Path. From surfaced paths to rocky clifftops there’s a Coast Path walk for everyone. Don’t forget the Gower Walking Festival is taking place between 7th and 22nd June this year with over 70 walks and activities to choose from. Moving inland, the Gower Way is another 35 mile challenge along the backbone of the Peninsula (there are three sections, but you don’t have to walk it all at once!) or try the tranquil lakeside walks at Lliw Reservoir.

Swansea Prom Mumbles Road, Swansea Swansea Prom, lining the 5 mile stretch of Swansea Bay, offers plenty to keep you and your family entertained! Most attractions open Apr-Sept. See website for details.

www.swanseaprom.com (01792 468321

32 visitswanseabay.com Wales Coast Path

2012 saw the opening of a continuous 870 mile Wales Coast Path. Explore the 39 miles walk around the Gower Peninsula - the UK’s first ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’. Open all year. www.walescoastpath.gov.uk

visitswanseabay.com 33 34 visitswanseabay.com Watersports & Swimming

We’re a Watersports Centre of Excellence and it’s not hard to see why! Choose from surfing (Gower’s great for beginners and really popular with experts), sailing, kitesurfing, stand up paddleboarding and kayaking - brilliant in the Bay (get the gear and know-how with 360 Beach and Watersports). Serious swimmer or looking for serious fun? You can have both at the Wales National Pool and the LC Leisure Complex (home to Wales’ first indoor surf simulator).

360 Beach and Watersports Mumbles Road, Swansea SA2 0AY

360 Beach & Watersports is a unique multisport facility situated at the heart of Swansea Bay, a stunning natural resource that lends itself to both land and water based activity. 360 opened in 2012 and offers opportunities for individuals and groups of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to get involved with a range of sports and activities - Kayaking, Stand Up Paddle Boarding, Powerkiting, Beach Volleyball, and a variety of other beach based activities. Open daily, all year. www.360swansea.co.uk (01792 655844 visitswanseabay.com 35 SurfGSD - Gower Surfing PO Box 83, Swansea SA3 4XX

Gower Surfing lessons & Supervised Surf Hire: Surfing for Everyone - We run the famous Junior Surfing Academy at Caswell daily during the school holidays. We cater for large groups including stag and hen do’s, scout and guide groups, school activity weeks and can cater for small group or 1-2-1 surfing sessions. Book online at www.shopgsd.com, text 07739 536122 for last minute sessions or email [email protected] for any enquiries. Open daily, all year, daylight hours.

www.gowersurfing.com Text 07739 536122 Oxwich Watersports The Beach Hut, Oxwich Beach, Oxwich, Gower SA3 1LS Oxwich Watersports is a centre of excellence offering a full range of watersports activities and training for all ages and levels of experience. Ideally situated on the Gower Peninsula. Open Apr-Oct, 10am-5pm. See website for details.

www.oxwichwatersports.co.uk (07740 284079

36 visitswanseabay.com The LC Oystermouth Road, Swansea SA1 3ST

The LC is South Wales' Premier Leisure Destination! Including the Waterpark, 30ft Climbing Wall, Interactive play area and Wales’ first indoor surf simulator, the Boardrider! Open daily, all year. See website for details. www.thelcswansea.com (01792 466500 Wales National Pool Swansea Sketty Lane, Sketty, Swansea SA2 8QG For a range of aquatic activities - lane swimming for competent swimmers, recreation swimming for non-swimmers/families, Splash & Play family fun, fitness classes & learn to swim for all. Open daily, all year, 6am-10pm. www.walesnationalpoolswansea.co.uk (01792 513513 Welsh Surfing Federation Surf School Llangennith, Gower SA3 1JD Teaching surfing to absolute beginners and improvers. All instructors hold current Surf Coach and Beach Lifeguard awards and are CRB checked. All equipment provided. Surfing GB approved. Open daily, Mar-Oct, 9am-5pm. www.wsfsurfschool.co.uk (01792 386426

visitswanseabay.com 37 38 visitswanseabay.com Getting About

It’s easy. Swansea Bay is at the heart of South Wales and is easily reached by motorway, express coaches and fast train links. When you get here, park your car, and become an explorer! Go by bus or on foot. Swansea operates a Park & Ride scheme from three sites. Why not go ‘Walking by Bus’? We’ve got some short circular walks linked to bus routes. There are 5 ‘Walking by Bus’ leaflets (including Worm’s Head and Llanmadoc). Pick them up from Swansea Tourist Information Centre or download them from visitswanseabay.com Our buses will take you almost everywhere. Gower’s splendid beaches, coastal and country walks are just a short ride from Swansea using the Gower Explorer. From Swansea, buses will also take you to the bays and beaches of Mumbles. Great value all-day tickets are available, one for most of Swansea Bay including Gower, Neath, Port Talbot and the Valleys; and the other for Swansea City and Mumbles. For further information about travelling to or within Swansea Bay, Mumbles and Gower, call Traveline Cymru ( 08712 002233 or visit www.traveline-cymru.info

visitswanseabay.com 39 Travel Information using Public Transport

Whatever your chosen attraction or activity, you can get there by bus. Visit www.baytrans.org.uk for comprehensive travel information for visitors or email [email protected]

www.baytrans.org.uk

Play Safe Whatever you do and wherever you do it, please ensure that the conditions are safe and that you have the right equipment. If new to the activity or inexperienced, use an accredited operator (where appropriate, all operators featured in this Guide have achieved the relevant activity accreditation in relation to the sections in which they appear). If participating in an activity in the sea or near the shoreline, then keep an eye on the state of the tide, as it can turn very quickly here.

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Swansea Tourist Information Centre (01792 468321 *[email protected] Open all year Other TICs / Visitor Centres

Image Credits and Copyrights Mumbles & Gower Mountain Biker p9: Cognation, Rhossili (01792 361302 Nat Trust p11: NTPL/John Millar, Blue *[email protected] Plaque p14: 5 Cwmdonkin Drive, Glynn Open all year Vivian Art Gallery p22: Powell Dobson Architects, Penllergare Valley Woods p29: National Trust Visitor Centre Richard Hanson, Walkers at Three Cliffs Coastguard Cottages, Rhossili, Gower, Bay p33: Visit Wales © Crown Copyright Swansea SA3 1PR (01792 390707 The Council of the City & County of Swansea cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this brochure and accepts no Useful Contacts responsibility for any error or misrepresentation, liability for loss, disappointment, negligence or other damage Swansea Mobility Hire caused by the reliance on the information Swansea City Bus Station, contained in this brochure unless caused by Plymouth St, the negligent act or omission of the Council. Swansea SA1 3AR Please check and confirm all details before (01792 461785 booking or travelling. Coastguard This publication is available in (01792 366534 alternative formats. Contact Swansea Tourist Information Published by the City & County of Centre (01792 468321. Swansea © Copyright 2014 Attractions coveroutside2014:Layout 1 04/03/2014 14:14 Page 1 Finding Out

Swansea Tourist Information Centre (01792 468321 *[email protected] Open all year Other TICs / Visitor Centres

Swansea Bay Mumbles, Gower, Afan and The Vale of Neath

Scale Key to beach awards 0 6 km Blue Flag and Seaside Award Seaside Award 0 3 miles

This map is based on digital photography licensed from NRSC Ltd. © City and County of Swansea 2014 visitswanseabay.com Attractions coveroutside2014:Layout 1 04/03/2014 14:14 Page 1 Finding Out

Swansea Tourist Information Centre (01792 468321 *[email protected] Open all year Other TICs / Visitor Centres