Things to Do

2018/19 visitswanseabay.com Things to Do

y a B a e ns #SeaSwa Swansea Bay Mumbles, Gower, Afan & The Vale of Neath

DISCOVER YOUR GOWER adventure Visit the largest collection of holiday homes in Mumbles, Gower & Swansea Marina From peaceful retreats, to family fun, to energetic outdoor 45 YEARS adventures, we have the best holiday accommodation to OVERMANAGING suit your needs, all managed by Gower’s most experienced GOWER45 YEARS PROPERTIES locally-based agency. Visit our website or give us a call, one MANAGING GOWER PROPERTIES of our dedicated local team members will be happy to help.

04 Ahoy There! 05 Adventure 14 Cycling 14 Discover 17 Dylan Thomas 18 Entertainment 20 Events 22 Food & Drink 32 Galleries 34 Holiday Essentials 35 Golf 36 Heritage 39 Parks & Gardens 40 Shopping 42 Walking 43 Watersports & Swimming 47 Getting About 50 Play Safe

Finding Out & Area Map (back cover)

visitswanseabay.com 1 C A N O L F A N C E N T R E EXPERIENCES WORTH SHARING Outdoor team-building with impact

Full day or half day experiences Visit our free, family- available Group size from friendly exhibition. Be a 6 upwards! Dylan Thomas Explorer and learn about our Down to Earth delivers remarkable experiences that wonderful wordsmith bring out the best in your group. From adventure through interactive activities on Gower to building something spectacular with natural materials, our award winning social enterprise displays, magnetic offers unique and unforgettable experiences. poetry and our Children’s Trail. • Coasteering Year round • Tree climbing Family Activity • Coracle Adventures Workshops! • Cooking on fires • Building with Poetry, Crafts, natural materials Stories • Knife work & stick carving Venue Hire & loads more Voted ‘Most Sustainable Venue in Wales’. Our facilities are inspiring for conferences, weddings and training events

RE ACT TU IV N I DOING GOOD E T I V E

D S To book call A

L Y I THINGS C T I E R N O SI H (01792 463980 01792 232 439 NG AUT TOGETHER or visit downtoearthproject.org.uk dylanthomas.com DOING GOOD THINGS TOGETHER

915-18 D2E-Swansea Bay Ad dev2-1(ENG).indd 1 02/03/2018 12:28 EXPERIENCES WORTH SHARING Outdoor team-building with impact

Full day or half day experiences available Group size from 6 upwards!

Down to Earth delivers remarkable experiences that bring out the best in your group. From adventure activities on Gower to building something spectacular with natural materials, our award winning social enterprise offers unique and unforgettable experiences.

• Coasteering • Tree climbing • Coracle Adventures • Cooking on fires • Building with natural materials • Knife work & stick carving Venue Hire & loads more Voted ‘Most Sustainable Venue in Wales’. Our facilities are inspiring for conferences, weddings and training events

RE ACT TU IV N I DOING GOOD E T I V E

D S To book call A

L Y I THINGS C T I E R N O SI H 01792 232 439 NG AUT TOGETHER or visit downtoearthproject.org.uk DOING GOOD THINGS TOGETHER

915-18 D2E-Swansea Bay Ad dev2-1(ENG).indd 1 02/03/2018 12:28 Ahoy there - it’s the Year of the Sea!... It’s the perfect time to #SeaSwanseaBay and enjoy our legendary coastal culture, our sensational seashore and captivating countryside. And it’s not just the Year of the Sea, it’s also the thirtieth anniversary of Blue Flag Beaches – and two of our beautiful beaches are in the Top Ten of the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards! All a cause for sea-lebration!

This handy Guide can help you match your Must Do’s to the where, when and how in Swansea Bay.

y a B a # se SeaSwan

Why #SeaSwanseaBay? Our past, present … and future is tied to the sea. From our Norse heritage and historic port, to the industrial revolution to our reputation for protecting our landscapes and wildlife – Gower was the first to be designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the UK! So, whether you enjoy walking, surfing or our seafood – you’ll soon ‘sea’ how closely connected we are to the blue briny lapping at our shores – it’s even in our name Swansea Bay.

4 visitswanseabay.com Adventure Try a wild white water ride around the Gower coastline or 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 kite-riding, 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? Start your Sea Swansea Bay Adventure!

Clyne Farm Riding and Activity Centre Clyne Farm, Westport Avenue, Swansea SA3 5AR Your one stop for activities for all ages and abilities; horse riding, climbing, archery, surfing, stag/hen, weddings, birthdays, and Challenge Valley - the muddiest assault course in the world! Open daily, all year. [email protected] (01792 403333

Cafe Play Mumbles Castleton Walk Arcade, Newton Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4AX Cafe Play is a soft play area and fully licensed cafe in the heart of Mumbles. We offer a relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere, great party packages and are available for exclusive hire. www.cafeplaymumbles.co.uk (01792 363482

visitswanseabay.com 5 Adventure Britain Call of the Wild Ltd, 83 Church Road, Seven Sisters, Neath SA10 9DT Discover your wildside! Experience unforgettable activities! Canyoning, climbing, caving, canoeing, team building. Activities for adults, families and groups. Climb majestic cliffs, jump off waterfalls and explore underground!

www.adventurebritain.com (01639 700388

Antur Ltd. 59 Dulais Road, Seven Sisters, Neath SA10 9ER Antur provide fun, engaging and safe adventurous activities for all including Coasteering, gorgewalking, rock climbing to name but a few! School, youth, sporting, cubs, brownies, hen, stag, friends, families and corporate.

www.anturoutdoor.com (07376 788763

6 visitswanseabay.com Crawley D4

Own your own little piece of paradise or simply camp under the stars

Oxwich Bay

Consider staying at the multi award winning Greenways of Gower on the breathtaking Horton Gower coast! We’re lucky to have the most beautiful coastline right on our doorstep. From beautiful sandy beaches to rugged rocks, coves and the Jurassic Worms Head, you’d struggle to ﬁ nd a more picture perfect holiday destination in the UK!

01792 391203 www.greenwaysleisure.co.uk Down to Earth 72a Manselfield Road, Murton, Swansea SA3 3AP We offer remarkable experiences and unique adventures from our stunning hand-crafted centres. Unforgettable adventures for all ages and abilities by an award winning social enterprise. Open all year. Group bookings only.

www.downtoearthproject.org.uk (01792 346566

Laserzone The Old Castle Cinema, Worcester Place, Swansea SA1 1JQ One of the biggest and best laser game arenas in the UK. Swansea’s most exciting leisure venue is ready and waiting! Grab a friend and head down to LASERZONE for an action packed experience.

www.laserzone.org (01792 653433

Go Ape Margam Margam Country Park, Port Talbot SA13 2TJ Go Ape is the UK’s No.1 Tree Top Adventure at Margam Park. Fly down zip-wires, leap off our Tarzan Swing and tackle our obstacles. (Minimum Age 10 Years) Open Feb-Nov, 9am-5pm. Gorillas: £33 Baboons: £25 www.goape.co.uk/margam (0845 094 8741

8 visitswanseabay.com Gower Activity Centres Port Eynon & Rhossili

Our activity centres at Rhossili and Port Eynon provide fantastic accommodation for experiencing all that Gower has to offer, not to mention views that have to be seen to be believed. For over 30 years we have been providing activities and events and pride ourselves on the memories we help to create. We work with schools, youth groups, families, commercial bookings and anyone that wants to experience our Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. www.goweractivitycentres.co.uk (01792 390481

Teamforce Paintball & Laser Tag Swansea Llangyfelach Road, Swansea SA5 7PE Located only 1.5 miles off J46/M4, with 15 acres of purpose built paintball and laser zones; TEAMFORCE is the ideal destination for an action packed adventure day for Paintball and Laser Tag. Open daily, all year, 10am-4pm. www.teamforceuk.com (01792 772311

visitswanseabay.com 9 Rip N Rock 8 Brynymor, Three Crosses, Swansea SA4 3PF Coasteering, Canyoning, Gorge Walking, Surfing, MegaSUP, Climbing, Abseiling and Team Building! Best rated Gower adventure activity provider on TripAdvisor. Couples to large groups catered for - all welcome! Open daily, all year. See website for details.

www.ripnrock.co.uk (07815 784122

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

Dryad Bushcraft Gower, Swansea

Dryad Bushcraft is one of the UK’s leading Bushcraft and Wilderness Survival training organisations. As featured on ITV Wales ‘Coast and Country’. Open all year, prior booking required. See website for details.

www.dryadbushcraft.co.uk (01792 547213

10 visitswanseabay.com Gower Coast Adventures Gower Coast Adventures, Oxwich Bay, Gower, Swansea SA31LS Enjoy breath-taking views and a wealth of wildlife on our guided boat tours of the beautiful Gower Coast. From playful seals to historic sea caves, it’s an unforgettable experience. Open daily, Mar-Oct, 8am-8pm. Online booking available. www.gowercoastadventures.co.uk (01792 348229

Gower Kite Riders The SUP Hut / Gower Kite Riders, Francis Street, Brynmill, Swansea SA1 4NH Gower Kitesurfing has been teaching people all aspects of kite sports for over 10 years. Come and experience power kiting, kite land boarding, kite buggying and kitesurfing and feel the wind (pending suitable conditions). Open daily, all year. See website for details. www.gowerkiteriders.com (01792 446511

Gower Activity Centres

www.gowercactivitycentres.co.uk (01792 390481

visitswanseabay.com 11 Perriswood Archery & Falconry Centre Perriswood Farm, Penmaen, Swansea SA3 2HN Why not pop in and see us it’s free entry, have a go at archery or watch our falconry show - hold a few birds, also see our pigs, cockatiels, cockatoos, horses or just visit our coffee shop.

www.perriswood.com (01792 371661

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

Gower Adventures 43 Pencaerfenni Lane, Crofty, Swansea SA4 3SD We offer a wide range of exciting outdoor activities based around Gower. Join our team of experienced instructors and let them take you on an adventure with lasting memories. Open daily, all year.

www.goweradventures.co.uk (01792 851182

12 visitswanseabay.com Stand up Paddle Gower

www.supgower.com (07799062447

visitswanseabay.com 13 Cycling

Want traffic free routes with great views? We’ve got lots! For starters, cycle along the Swansea Bay Prom to Mumbles (you can even stop for an ice cream along the way!). Many of our routes are also 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.

Go to www.visitswanseabay.com/cycling for more information. Discover Unlock Gower’s hidden histories at the National Trust Visitor Centre at Rhossili Bay and find out more about the wildlife that makes Gower so special. Or explore a different style of waterfront at Swansea Marina amongst the boats, distinctive sculptures and waterfront cafés. At the nearby Archive Service you can even delve into your own past and discover your Welsh ancestry.

14 visitswanseabay.com Gower Tours 16 Monksland Road, Scurlage, Gower, Swansea SA3 1AY We have a great passion and knowledge of the Peninsula which has so much natural beauty to offer and we would love to share this with you through Gower Tours. www.gowertours.co.uk (07776354079

Swansea Community Boat Trust River Tawe Boat Cruises on board Copper Jack A cruise on Copper Jack offers a unique opportunity for both visitors and Swansea locals alike to experience the beauty of the river, and gain an insight into Swansea’s amazing industrial history. Sailings daily from Easter until October. Please phone or visit our website or Facebook page for more information. www.scbt.org.uk (07785 347549

National Trust Rhossili, Gower SA3 1PR

The car park (free to members) will greet you. Our staff will help you get the most from your day and our shop offers the range of high quality goods that you would expect. Open all year. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ rhossili-and-south-gower-coast (01792 390707

visitswanseabay.com 15 Swansea Marina Lockside, Maritime Quarter, Swansea SA1 1WG Swansea Marina, where the city meets the sea. The Marina’s unique location guarantees something to please all the family. Our central location in the Bristol Channel makes us an unsurpassed cruising centre. Open daily, all year (closed Christmas Day).

www.swanseamarina.org.uk (01792 470310

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

16 visitswanseabay.com Dylan Thomas

Take a walk in the poet’s footsteps; visit his city sights and childhood haunts. Cwmdonkin Park is where Dylan played as a boy; nearby his birthplace 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. Then step into the ‘Love the Words’ exhibition at the Dylan Thomas Centre to immerse yourself in his life, loves and inspirational words.

Dylan Thomas Birthplace & Family Home 5 Cwmdonkin Drive, Uplands, Swansea SA2 0RA Discover Dylan’s world with a guided tour of the house where he was born, wrote and lived for over half of his life. For a special treat stay overnight or indulge in an Edwardian dinner. Open daily, all year, tours between 10:30am and 4:30pm. [email protected] (01792 472555

Annie from Wales Tour Guide & Dylan Thomas Specialist

Anne Pelleschi is an accredited guide with over 20 years’ experience in sharing her knowledge of fact, folklore and the legend of Dylan Thomas; in guided walks and group tours in Swansea and South Wales. www.anniefromwales.com (07817 753376

visitswanseabay.com 17 Dylan Thomas Centre Somerset Place, Swansea SA1 1RR

Learn to ‘Love the Words’ the way Dylan did at our interactive exhibition exploring the life, times and work of one of the 20th century’s greatest writers. Free entry. Open daily, all year, 10am - 4:30pm.

www.dylanthomas.com (01792 463980 Entertainment A grand night out. Enjoy drama, music, comedy, opera and dance. Our theatres have so much to offer - from summer rep, live screenings to Christmas panto.

Take it outside. Our events programme does just that - check out the 2018 highlights overleaf - but don’t miss the annual Wales Airshow this summer - it’s going to be an aerial extravaganza!

18 visitswanseabay.com Taliesin Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea SA2 8PZ Taliesin Arts Centre is at the heart of Swansea University’s Singleton Campus. It hosts a wide ranging programme of live music, theatre and dance alongside live broadcasts and film. www.taliesinartscentre.co.uk (01792 602060

Brangwyn Brangwyn Hall, Guildhall, Swansea SA1 4PE A landmark venue and home to the historic Brangwyn panels. Regularly hosts internationally acclaimed orchestras and some of the biggest names in contemporary music. Ideal venue for events, conferences, weddings and functions. Open all year. www.brangwynhall.co.uk (01792 635428

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

visitswanseabay.com 19 Events Spring & Summer 2018 12th April Man Engine, various locations in Swansea 27th - 29th Apr German Bierfest Swansea 2018, Museum Park 1st - 31st May Clyne in Bloom, Clyne Gardens 5th - 6th May Cheese and Cider Festival, Gower Heritage Centre 26th - 27th May BBC Music’s The Biggest Weekend,SOLD Singleton OUT Park 27th - 28th May Gower Good Food Festival, Gower Heritage Centre 2nd - 10th Jun Gower Walking Festival 14th - 17th Jun Swansea International Jazz Festival 23rd June The Killers, Liberty Stadium 24th June JCP Swansea Half Marathon 30th Jun - 1st Jul Wales Airshow, Swansea Bay 2nd - 14th Jul Gower Festival 7th July Little Mix, Liberty Stadium 19th July Outdoor Theatre at Oystermouth Castle: A Midsummer Night’s Dream 25th - 29th July Beach Sculpture Festival, various beaches in Swansea Bay 28th July Dungeons and Dragons Day, Oystermouth Castle 28th Jul - 5th Aug Pirate Week, Gower Heritage Centre 1st - 31st Aug Botanics in Bloom, Singleton Park 5th August Mumbles Raft Race

20 visitswanseabay.com 5th August Gower Show 8th August The Living Seas Wales Roadshow, National Waterfront Museum 10th - 24th Aug Swansea Festival of Stitch, various locations 18th - 25th Aug Gower Cycling Festival 23rd - 25th Aug CAMRA Beer Festival

Autumn & Winter 2018/19 12th - 13th Sept Luna Cinema, Oystermouth Castle 15th September Roald Dahl Day, National Waterfront Museum 16th September Admiral Swansea Bay 10k 22nd Sept - 6th Oct Swansea International Festival 25th - 29th Sept Now the Hero, a theatrical experience from Swansea Bay to the Brangwyn 29th September Mumbles Triathlon 16th December Handel’s Messiah, Brangwyn 23rd December Christmas by Candlelight, Brangwynwyn End of November Christmas in Swansea and - January Waterfront Winterland There are lots more events happening here in Swansea Bay, for more information go to visitswanseabay.com/events

All details correct at time of going to press

visitswanseabay.com 21 1918 - 25-29 | 09 | 2018

DIGWYDDIAD COFFÁU YN CYNNWYS GWRTHDARO, PROTEST, RHYDDIAETH & PERFFORMIAD

A POWERFUL MEMORIAL OF CONFLICT, PROTEST, PROSE & PERFORMANCE

nawryrarwr.cymru nowthehero.wales

Mae Nawr Yr Awr/Now The Hero gan Marc Marc Rees’ Nawr Yr Awr \ Now The Hero is an Rees yn proﬁ ad theatrig i ymgolli ynddo a immersive theatrical experience that will take hwnnw’n tywys y gynulleidfa ar daith hynod the audience on an extraordinary journey drwy dair stori ryfel sy’n cydblethu; o hanes y through three interweaving narratives of war; Celtiaid, i’r Rhyfel Mawr, i’r gwrthdaro yn ein from Celtic history, the First World War, and byd ni heddiw. Mae’r cynhyrchiad beiddgar today’s conﬂ icts. This bold production brings yma yn dod â straeon rhyfel yn fyw, ond yn the stories of war imaginatively to life, but gwrthbwyso’r drasiedi â gobaith. counterpoints the tragic telling with hope.

Food & Drink

Savour our sea-food! Head to Mumbles, the metropolis of Welsh, home-made ice-cream or make for Swansea Market to savour welshcakes hot from the griddle.

Many of our dining experiences come with an amazing view as a side order; a beautiful bay, boats bobbing in the Marina and even a panoramic vista from the top of Wales’ tallest building.

Hungry? To help you find your way to a tasty treat more quickly, we’ve split our Food & Drink section into the different areas of Swansea, Mumbles, Gower and Neath Port Talbot.

22 visitswanseabay.com 1918 - 25-29 | 09 | 2018 Swansea

DIGWYDDIAD COFFÁU YN CYNNWYS GWRTHDARO, PROTEST, The Swigg RHYDDIAETH & PERFFORMIAD Unit 1B A POWERFUL MEMORIAL Waterfront Museum, OF CONFLICT, PROTEST, PROSE & Swansea SA1 3RD PERFORMANCE Welcome to The Swigg Kitchen, bar, venue in the heart nawryrarwr.cymru nowthehero.wales of Swansea Marina.

Mae Nawr Yr Awr/Now The Hero gan Marc Marc Rees’ Nawr Yr Awr \ Now The Hero is an Rees yn proﬁ ad theatrig i ymgolli ynddo a immersive theatrical experience that will take hwnnw’n tywys y gynulleidfa ar daith hynod the audience on an extraordinary journey drwy dair stori ryfel sy’n cydblethu; o hanes y through three interweaving narratives of war; Celtiaid, i’r Rhyfel Mawr, i’r gwrthdaro yn ein from Celtic history, the First World War, and www.theswigg.net (01792 655666 byd ni heddiw. Mae’r cynhyrchiad beiddgar today’s conﬂ icts. This bold production brings yma yn dod â straeon rhyfel yn fyw, ond yn the stories of war imaginatively to life, but gwrthbwyso’r drasiedi â gobaith. counterpoints the tragic telling with hope. Cast Iron Bar & Grill Swansea Marriott Hotel, Maritime Quarter, Swansea, SA1 3SS The Cast Iron Bar & Grill Restaurant at Swansea Marriott Hotel features expertly crafted traditional Welsh cuisine, in addition to a variety of international dishes.

www.swanseamarriott.co.uk (01792 634835

Dinner at Dylan’s Dylan Thomas Birthplace & Family Home, 5 Cwmdonkin Dr, Uplands, Swansea SA2 0RA Enjoy a unique private Taste of Wales dining experience amidst the Edwardian splendour of the birthplaces and family home of Wales’ most celebrated poet and writer. The perfect special occasion.

www.dylanthomasbirthplace.com (01792 472555 Grape & Olive Meridian Tower, Trawler Road, Swansea SA1 1JW Award winning restaurant situated at the top of Wales’ tallest building, with superb views across Swansea Bay. We believe in sourcing Welsh products of the finest quality from producers we can trust. See website for opening information. www.swansea.grapeandolive.co.uk (01792 462617

blas at The Wales National Pool, Swansea Sketty Lane, Sketty, Swansea SA2 8QG Relax and refuel with us at café blas. Indulge in delicious coffee and irresistible cakes, or sample our variety of speciality sandwiches, snacks and cold drinks. Open daily. www.walesnationalpoolswansea.co.uk/ meet-eat/catering (01792 513513

Coast Café Coast Cafe, Trawler Road, Swansea Marina, SA1 1FZ

Coast Café is an independent coffee shop and wine bar in SA1 with stunning views over the Marina. Coast offers the highest quality barista coffee, freshly made food and a wide variety of wines and beers. www.coastcafe.co.uk (01792 448955 Coast Café @ Glynn Vivian Alexandra Road, Swansea SA1 5DZ Coast Cafe is located in the foyer of The Glynn Vivian Art Gallery. We not only serve great Coffee, but a comprehensive range of Hot and Cold Food and Drinks to enjoy! www.coastcafe.co.uk (01792 516900

Morgans Restaurant Morgans Hotel, Somerset Place, Swansea SA1 1RR Join us for a relaxed evening meal, a lighter bite from our bar & grill menu or traditional afternoon tea. All while taking in the impressive surroundings and atmosphere of Morgans Restaurant. www.morganshotel.co.uk (01792 484848

360 Café Bar 360 Beach and Watersports, Mumbles Road, Swansea SA2 0AY The 360 beachside café is the perfect place to relax with family and friends over a coffee or bite to eat. Open daily all year round, look out for our special events including themed nights, live music, and BBQs. www.360swansea.co.uk (01792 655844

visitswanseabay.com 25 Mumbles Mumtaz 478-480 Mumbles Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BX Enjoy fine Indian cuisine with fantastic views of Swansea Bay. Mumtaz is a family run restaurant serving traditional Indian cuisine and hospitality. A must for your itinerary when visiting Mumbles. Open daily, all year. [email protected] (01792 367210

Café Play by Night Castelton Walk Arcade, Newton Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4AX Based at the old Bentley’s Night Club. Open Fri & Sat til late and features a great Gin Bar. Comedy Nights, live music, pop-ups & films coming soon... Available for Private Hire. www.cafeplaymumbles.co.uk (01792 363482

Bistrot Pierre 3 Oyster Wharf, Mumbles Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4DN The award winning Bistrot Pierre overlooks Swansea Bay and boasts spectacular sea views. Offering great value French cooking and seasonal menus including classics such as steak-frites and crème brûlée. www.bistrotpierre.co.uk (01792 365040 Verdi’s Knab Rock, Mumbles Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4EE

Verdi’s is a family run Coffee Shop, Ice Cream Parlour and Licensed Italian Restaurant with a reputation for authentic Italian flavour and quality, with spectacular, panoramic views across Swansea Bay. We specialise in authentic, pizza and pasta dishes made from traditional family recipes, as well as award winning dairy ice cream in up to 30 delicious flavours and a full range of Italian coffees. The flavour of Italy and the beauty of Wales - that’s Verdi’s. Open daily, all year. See website for details. www.verdis-cafe.co.uk (01792 369135

visitswanseabay.com 27 Gower

Bank Farm Café Bank Farm Leisure Park, Horton, Gower, Swansea SA3 1LL Situated overlooking Port Eynon and Horton Bay, Bank Farm caters for the whole family. Enjoy a beverage in our newly renovated coffee lounge or a family meal in the restaurant and bar area. Open Mar 1st - Jan 3rd, 9am-11pm.

www.bankfarmleisure.co.uk (01792 390228

The Cliff / Y Clogwyn Restaurant @Cliff Restaurant 68 Southgate Road, Southgate, Gower, Swansea SA3 2DH

Starting in 1996, just four tables, a little white kettle, one recipe for carrot cake and a passion... Since then we have re-designed twice and spent every day searching for new tastes and products to ensure we always provide our visitors with fantastic flavours. The Cliff (Y Clogwyn) restaurant opened in May 2017. Taking everything we have learnt and using our amazing suppliers. A new eating experience for Gower, Colin Lewis our new head Chef, will build on the reputation and create an amazing dining experience. Taste… www.the-cliff.co.uk (01792 399030

28 visitswanseabay.com Beach House Oxwich Beach, Gower, Swansea SA3 1LS Beach House is located on the soft golden sands of Oxwich Bay and offers a relaxed dining experience with magnificent coastal views. ‘AA Restaurant of the Year for Wales.’ [email protected] www.beachhouseoxwich.co.uk (01792 390965

Oxwich Bay Hotel Oxwich, Gower, Swansea SA3 1LS Dine in style at the Oxwich Bay Hotel, with a choice of our sea-view restaurant with sweeping views of Oxwich Bay or our rustic Chestnut Room with our wood burning fire built into the trunk of a chestnut tree. www.oxwichbayhotel.co.uk (01792 390329

Three Cliffs Coffee Shop 68 Southgate Road, Southgate, Gower, Swansea SA3 2DH We challenge you to find a nicer piece of cake, or a more enjoyable visit to a coffee shop. It’s all about treats...

www.threecliffs.co.uk (01792 233230

visitswanseabay.com 29 The Greyhound Bar & Grill Oldwalls, Llanrhidian, Gower SA3 1HA The Greyhound Bar & Grill is a traditional family pub which has a welcoming, friendly atmosphere. We have a well-stocked bar and an extensive food menu, which is served until 9pm Monday to Saturday. Serves traditional Sunday roast on Sundays. Serve food all day everyday!

www.greyhoundgower.com (01792 392901

Monksland Scurlage, Gower, Swansea SA3 1BA On the beautiful Gower Peninsula, join us in our family run establishment, for a delicious carvery or choose from our superb menu. Alternatively, just pop into our bar and enjoy a drink. Sunday carvery. Monday to Saturday menu served 12 noon to 9pm.

www.monksland.uk (01792 390597

The Ship Inn The Ship Inn, Port Eynon, Gower SA3 1NN Located in the heart of Port Eynon, Gower. The Ship Inn provides a warm and welcoming environment to all visiting the Gower coast. The decor provides a distinctly cosy and nautical theme.

www.shipinngower.co.uk (01792 390204

30 visitswanseabay.com Kings Head Inn Llangennith, Gower, Swansea SA3 1HX Large extensive menu serving all pub classics with a varied specials board producing dishes inspired from all over the world with fresh local produce. Bar is stocked with Gower ales, & a large gin and whisky selection. Largest whisky collection outside Scotland! Over 70 Gins! www.kingsheadgower.co.uk (01792 386212

The Bay Bistro & Coffee House Ivy Cottage, Rhossili, Gower, Swansea SA3 1PL Experience panoramic views over Rhossili Bay enjoying homemade food, Italian coffee, organic wine & local beers. Incorporating, Sam’s Surf Shack, hiring wet suits, surf & body boards and SUP. www.thebaybistro.co.uk (01792 390519

Neath Port Talbot

Aberdulais Schoolhouse Tea-Room Aberdulais National Trust, Aberdulais, Neath, SA10 8EU A friendly welcome awaits you at The Aberdulais Schoolhouse Tea-Room. A quirky National Trust Tea-Room serving a selection of traditional Welsh specialities along with a few home favourites. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/aberdulais (01639 636674 Galleries

We’ve got a creative side. From the Maritime Quarter to Mumbles and the Gower Peninsula; craft shops, art and photographic galleries offer the best in local work - we’ve even got a Lovespoon Gallery! Don’t miss Swansea’s iconic Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, which, as well as showing work from its own extensive collection, hosts a diverse range of touring exhibitions and is a partner of the Plus Tate programme.

Glynn Vivian Art Gallery Alexandra Road, Swansea SA1 5DZ Free entry.Offering a warm welcome, you can join in our Saturday family workshops, explore historical collections and contemporary exhibitions. Meet your friends in the café, with lots more to discover too!

www.glynnviviangallery.org (01792 516900

32 visitswanseabay.com 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

North Wind Studio and Gallery Gower

A working Studio in a beautiful village setting near Three Cliffs Bay. View original paintings undisturbed in an adjacent gallery room or enjoy a chat with the artist at her easel. Open by prior arrangement only, any day of the week and all year round. www.rowanhuntley.co.uk (07761 233 733

Gower Gallery Gower Gallery, 97-99 Newton Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BN Art and art gifts created by Welsh artists and makers established and up and coming to suit all budgets. Also fair-trade art from international artisans. A relaxed and welcoming gallery. www.gowergallery.co.uk (01792 368669

visitswanseabay.com 33 Holiday Essentials Visitswanseabay.com has all the info or pop in to see one of our VIPs (that’s Visitor Information Points) and pick up a copy of one of our other go to Guides. Beaches This little beauty does exactly what it says on the cover! It’s an indispensable roll-call of our bevy of bays and beaches; together with all the important information including access, lifeguards and whether

they‘re dog friendly. 2018/19 visitswanseabay.com Gower Coast Path Gower Coast Path This guide opens out to reveal a detailed map of the Coast Path and a number of other Gower walking routes, together with some handy hints to make the most of

a B a e ns #SeaSwa your walk.

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v m i s o i c t . s w e a w n a rt se e a b ba ea y.c ba om eso Visitor Information cro Points If you are looking for a bit of local know-how, our friendly and knowledgeable Visitor Information Points (or VIPs for short) will be able to help.

For a list of VIPs go to visitswanseabay.com/VIPS or look for the orange window stickers. 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. Fairwood Park is the only PGA Championship status course in Swansea, while Pennard is Swansea’s only golf course in the top 100 golf courses in the UK and Ireland.

Fairwood Park Golf Club Blackhills Lane, Gower, Swansea SA2 7JN Situated on the Gower Peninsula, Fairwood Park boasts 18 holes of stunning woodland golf in over 150 acres, and is the only PGA Championship status course within Gower Coast Path the County of Swansea. This guide opens out to reveal a detailed map of the Coast Path and a number of other Gower walking www.fairwoodpark.com (01792 297849 routes, together with some handy hints to make the most of your walk. Pennard Golf Club 2 Southgate Rd, Southgate, Swansea SA3 2BT Pennard Golf Club (The Links in the Sky) is ranked in the Top 100 Golf Clubs in the UK and No. 3 in Wales. 18 Holes classic links, playable all year round. Stunning views and fantastic facilities.

www.pennardgolfclub.com (01792 233131

visitswanseabay.com 35 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 the sea shaped our city. And pull all the timelines together at the National Waterfront Museum. An epic journey.

1940’s Swansea Bay Baldwin’s Crescent, Crymlyn Burrows, Swansea SA1 8PT Visit our indoor 1940s Street. Fun for all, ideal for groups and schools. Film show and dressing up. Open 10-4pm (may vary). Admission charge. We’re near the Bay Campus. Mobile 07596 592356 [email protected] www.1940sswanseabay.co.uk (01792 458864

Aberdulais National Trust Aberdulais, Neath SA10 8EU Step into the lives of Victorian men, women & children, who helped South Wales start an industrial revolution shaping the world. Wales’ most accessible spectacular waterfall, dogs welcome.

[email protected] (01639 636674

36 visitswanseabay.com 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

National Waterfront Museum Oystermouth Road, Maritime Quarter, Swansea SA1 3RD

Take in the sights and sounds of more than 300 years of Welsh industry and innovation. Using a mix of cutting edge interactive technology and real objects, the Museum puts you in charge of the experience, bringing the past right to your fingertips. Explore 15 themed galleries which all tell a different story of this crucial period in Welsh history enabling you to be in charge of tracing your own experience of the fascinating and still evolving story of industrial Wales. Open daily, 10am-5pm. www.museum.wales ((029) 2057 3600

visitswanseabay.com 37 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. Keep an eye on the website for events throughout the year. Open daily, 1 Apr-30 Sep, 11am-5pm. www.swansea.gov.uk/ (01792 635458 oystermouthcastle 07557 481467

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-4.30pm (last admission 4.10pm).

www.swanseamuseum.co.uk (01792 653763

Mumbles Pier The Old Lifeboat Cottage, Mumbles Pier, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4EN A day out for all the family! Eat, Drink, Play and Explore at Mumbles Pier. Alongside our Victorian Pier home to the RNLI Boathouse we have a private beach, bowling alley, shops, bars and restaurants all to enjoy with ample parking!

www.mumbles-pier.co.uk (01792 365200

38 visitswanseabay.com Parks & Gardens A natural breathing space and a green oasis; parks are great for a picnic, playing games or just going for a Sunday stroll. We have lots to choose from. Highlights include Clyne Gardens, internationally famous for its superb collections of rhododendrons and Singleton Botanical Gardens for its rainbow bedding displays. For more of a walk on the wild side explore the secret and magical Penllergare Valley Woods.

Penllergare Valley Woods Penllergaer, Swansea SA4 9GS The award winning 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 coffee shop opening hours and car park. www.penllergare.org (01792 344224

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.swansea.gov.uk/parks

visitswanseabay.com 39 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, just bursting with plants and animals! Open daily, 10am-5pm. www.plantasia.org (01792 474555 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 to Mumbles and Gower for surf shops, art galleries and quirky gift shops. Rhossili Gift Shop Rhossili Gift Shop, Pitton Cross Caravan Park, Rhossili, Gower SA3 1PT New this year. We have a range of Holiday gift ideas including Dragons, Playmobil, Beach goods, camping supplies including gas and the Gower Kite Shop. Open Daily 9am-5pm. www.pittoncross.co.uk (01792 390593

Swansea Market Oxford Street, Swansea SA1 3PQ

Enjoy a shopping experience like no other at Swansea Market! Wales’ largest indoor market is at the heart of the City Centre. Full of friendly traders and over 100 stalls, it has remained a favourite with locals and visitors alike for generations. Whether you’re looking for essentials or tempting treats, you’ll find everything from fresh local produce and Welsh delicacies such as cockles and Welsh cakes to unique gifts and crafts. Open all year, Mon-Fri 8am-5.30pm, Sat 7.30am-5.30pm. www.swanseaindoormarket.co.uk (01792 654296

visitswanseabay.com 41 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 beautiful beaches and rocky clifftops, there’s a Coast Path walk for everyone.

Moving inland, the Gower Way is another 35 mile challenge along the backbone of the Peninsula (there’s three sections so you don’t have to walk it all at once!).

There are also a new selection of walking trails to explore in Rural Swansea, including the Mawr and Pontarddulais Heritage trails which tell the story of the area’s past as you explore. Try the tranquil lakeside walks at Lliw Reservoir or a waterfall walk at Penllergare Valley Woods.

Go to visitswanseabay.com/walking for more information and to download walking routes.

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.swansea.gov.uk/swanseaprom

42 visitswanseabay.com Watersports & Swimming

We’re a Watersports Centre of Excellence and it’s not hard to see why! Choose from surfing (Gower’s good for beginners and really popular with experts), sailing, kitesurfing, stand up paddle boarding and kayaking. Brilliant in the Bay (get the gear and know-how with 360 Beach and Watersports) and great on Gower (our activity operators below know all the best spots and have all the gear).

Serious swimmer or looking for serious fun? You can have the best of both watery worlds at the Wales National Pool and the LC Leisure Complex (home to Wales’ first indoor surf simulator).

It’s the Year of the Sea after all, get in there!

Go to visitswanseabay.com/watersports for more information.

360 Beach and Watersports Mumbles Road, Swansea SA2 0AY 360 Beach and Watersports is a unique multisport facility and beachside café situated in the heart of Swansea Bay perfect for all ages. Please visit website today for more information. www.360swansea.co.uk (01792 655844

Respect the sea, see page 50 for more information on how to play safe!

visitswanseabay.com 43

Gower Surfing Caswell Bay, Swansea

Gower Surfing open at Caswell Bay all summer, every day for surfing lessons & supervised surfing. We provide all equipment. To book text 07739536122 or online www.gowersurfing.com www.gowersurfing.com Text 07739 536122

Oxwich Watersports The Beach Hut, Oxwich Beach, Oxwich, Gower SA3 1LS Oxwich Watersports offers a full range of water sports activities including, Jet ski safari, coasteering, sailing, inflatables boat rides, kayak, sup, windsurf, wake boarding and sailing hire. Ideally situated on Gower. www.oxwichwatersports.co.uk (07740 284079

The LC Oystermouth Road, Swansea SA1 3ST

The LC is South Wales’ Premier Leisure destination, where you can swim, slide, surf, climb and play all under one roof. Open daily all year, see website for details.

www.thelcswansea.com (01792 466500

visitswanseabay.com 45 Welsh Surfing Federation Surf School Llangennith, Gower SA3 1JD

Teaching surfing to absolute beginners and improvers. All instructors hold Surf Coach/Beach Lifeguard awards and are CRB checked. All equipment provided. Owned and regulated by the Welsh Surfing Federation, the National Governing Body for surfing in Wales. Open daily, Mar-Oct, 9am-5pm. www.wsfsurfschool.co.uk (01792 386426

Stand up Paddle Gower The SUP Hut/Gower Kite Riders, Francis Street, Brynmill, Swansea SA1 4NH

By sharing our knowledge of the beautiful Gower coastline, we hope you will be able to experience the joy of Stand Up Paddling and appreciate a fantastic activity for all the family.

Open daily, all year. Various locations available. See website for details.

SUP GOWER www.supgower.com (01792 446511

46 visitswanseabay.com 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 Getting About

Travel Information using Public Transport

Your bus to adventure in Swansea Bay! Whatever your day out interest, there will be a bus to get you there. Visit www.swanseabaywithoutacar.com for comprehensive travel information; or e-mail [email protected] www.swanseabaywithoutacar.com Late Availability Looking for somewhere to stay when you arrive? Check out our Late Availability page for last minute accommodation bargains. visitswanseabay.com/lateavailability Getting About

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 two sites.

Why not go ‘Walking by Bus’? We’ve got some short circular walks linked to bus routes. There are five ‘Walking by Bus’ leaflets (including Worm’s Head and Llanmadoc). Download them from visitswanseabay.com/walking

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 contact:

Traveline Cymru 0800 464 0000 www.traveline.cymru or Baytrans (for travel around the destination) www.swanseabaywithoutacar.com

48 visitswanseabay.com HERO / NAWR

25 - 29 / 09 / 18

Radio Partner / Partner Radio

49 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). 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 causing a tidal surge or rip tide; especially at Three Cliffs Bay, Burry Holms and the Worm’s Head causeway (the Rhossili Coastwatch Centre can help you plan your walk safely). If surfing at Llangennith watch out for shipwrecks below the waterline. It is recommended that you keep children in line of sight at all times and swim at a lifeguarded beach. If you do see someone in difficulty, do not attempt to enter the water yourself, telephone 999 and ask for the coastguard. And finally, don’t forget your suncream. Now go and have fun!

50 visitswanseabay.com Year of the Sea

2018 is the Year of the Sea and across Wales we will be celebrating our seaside and coastal culture – and nowhere more so than Swansea Bay! So look out for our free Swansea Bay Year of the Sea Magazine, it’s a celebration of our captivating coastline and seafaring heritage in Swansea, Mumbles and Gower! visitswanseabay.com/seaswanseabay

y a B #S ea eaSwans AM DDIMFREE

30 Jun/Meh - 1 Jul/Gorff 2018 Swansea/Abertawe walesairshow.co.uk sioeawyrcymru.co.uk

Download the app Lawrlwythwch yr ap

Radio Partner/ Partner Radio Swansea Bay Mumbles, Gower, Afan & The Vale of Neath

Key to beach awards 0 4km Blue Flag and Seaside Award 0 2 miles Seaside Award 01792 360624 Marina Blue Flag Award [email protected] 101 Newton Road, Mumbles, Swansea, SA3 4BN This map is based on digital photography licensed #hfhmoments from NRSC Ltd. © Swansea Council 2018 visitswanseabay.com Finding Out 2018/19 This handy Guide is just the thing to pop in visitswanseabay.com your pocket when out and about; but if you need more detailed information or you’re INSPIRED BY THE 2018 THEME YEAR OF THE SEA looking for accommodation, then we know just YSBRYDOLWYD GAN THEMA 2018 SEF BLWYDDYN Y MÔR the place - here you’ll find all you need to plan your complete day out, short break or holiday: Sculpture on the Coast - a special trail Things to Do visitswanseabay.com along the Gower coast path Check out our mini-itineraries for an instant Cerflun ar y prosiect arfordir - day out and our blog for all the latest news. llwybr cerfluniau arbennig ar hyd llwybr arfordir Gwyr Visit our Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages for more inspiration and local updates. Use @visitswanseabay and #SeaSwanseaBay when you post and we can join in your Year of the Sea stories!

Limeslade Bay Horton Caswell Bay Bae Limeslade Bae Caswell

Swansea Council cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this brochure and accepts no responsibility for any error or Useful Contacts 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 Street, Three Cliffs Bay Rhossili Bay the negligent act or omission of the Council. Swansea SA1 3AR Bae’r Tri Chlogwyn Bae Rhosili (01792 461785 Please check and confirm all details www.swansea.gov.uk/mobilityhire Beach Sculpture Festival July 2018 before booking or travelling. Gwˆ yl Cerfluniau Traeth Gorffennaf 2018

y Beaches / Traethau Beaches / Traethau a RNLI B a e 25/07/18 - Caswell 28/07/18 - Bracelet ns www.rnli.org #SeaSwa 26/07/18 - Oxwich 29/07/18 - Blackpill This publication is available 27/07/18 - Port Eynon (by Lido/ger y Lido) in alternative formats. Contact Published by Swansea Council © Copyright 2018 [email protected] www.artandeducationbythesea.co.uk Finding Out 2018/19 This handy Guide is just the thing to pop in visitswanseabay.com your pocket when out and about; but if you need more detailed information or you’re INSPIRED BY THE 2018 THEME YEAR OF THE SEA looking for accommodation, then we know just YSBRYDOLWYD GAN THEMA 2018 SEF BLWYDDYN Y MÔR the place - here you’ll find all you need to plan your complete day out, short break or holiday: Sculpture on the Coast - a special trail Things to Do visitswanseabay.com along the Gower coast path Check out our mini-itineraries for an instant Cerflun ar y prosiect arfordir - day out and our blog for all the latest news. llwybr cerfluniau arbennig ar hyd llwybr arfordir Gwyr Visit our Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages for more inspiration and local updates. Use @visitswanseabay and #SeaSwanseaBay when you post and we can join in your Year of the Sea stories!

Limeslade Bay Horton Caswell Bay Bae Limeslade Bae Caswell