visitswanseabay€¦ · a swansea boy, r n i 19 4. so 2014 si a very sp ec ial y ar for us. o n ehu...

visitswanseabay.com

Happy Birthday Dylan ThomasIt’s the centenary year of Swansea’s most famous son.No wonder we’re pushing the boat out to celebrate.

Throughout 2014 we’re remembering Dylan’s life and work. It’s onemore reason to visit our bright, buzzy city and rather lovely coast andcountryside, an area brimming with sandy bays and wild woodlandseemingly designed for hikers and bikers.

Swansea has changed a lot since Dylan’s time. We wonder whathe’d make of the surfers on his boyhood beaches, the City’s PremierLeague football team and our glittering Waterfront.

Some things haven’t changed though. Green Gower is still theunspoilt paradise that inspired the artist as a young dog (to borrowfrom his Portrait of the Artist as a Young Dog). And you can still counton a hearty Swansea welcome wherever you go. While the City mighthave had a cosmopolitan makeover since Dylan’s day, it’s still burstingwith the warm, vibrant personality that informed his writing.

Swansea Bay, Mumbles and Gower 2014

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Inside the guide02 Dylan: A local legend, 100 years in the making

Help us celebrate a very special birthday

04 Sea hereDive into an ocean of possibilities in Wales’Waterfront City

10 Attraction stationsThere’s so much to do in our city by the sea

14 Sights, camera, action!Gorgeous Gower is picture-perfect, but it’s morethan just a pretty face

20 Making wavesThe Gower Peninsula is home to a raft ofchart-topping beaches

24 Listen upCool, cosmopolitan Mumbles has plenty to shout about

30 Mawr than meets the eyeThe Mawr moors, a walkers’ green, great escape

32 Green giantsThe Afan Valley and Vale of Neath are lush and leafy,lined with woods and waterfalls

36 2014 EventsThere’s a lot going on this year

39 Useful InfoGetting here and making plans

40 MapsFind your bearings

2 | visitswanseabay.com

A Swansea boy with a way with words Dylan Thomas conjured up a whole new world, writing in Englis

h

but with a lyricism that’s 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. We’ll be

celebrating his life and times in a big way. We hope you’ll be able to

share them here in Dylan’s home, where we’re staging a year long

Festival based on his life and work, with all kinds of innovative,

engaging and fun events.

Welcome to the partyWe’re pulling out all the stops to mark Dylan’s centenary.

There’s the world premiere of a new opera based on Under

Milk Wood, a Dylan themed walking festival, a special exhibition

of the writer’s poetry notebooks and, of course, our annual Dylan

Thomas Festival – which will be bigger and better than ever.

That’s just scratching the surface. For full details of what’s

on, see opposite or visit www.dylanthomas.com

Dylan’s townWhenever you come, you’ll find that Dylan is an everyday experie

nce

in our city. He’s everywhere. You’ll 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 Dylan’s ‘world within the world of the sea town’. Go there

now. Close your eyes and you’ll hear the same sounds Dylan heard,

children playing, dogs barking.

Mind you, ‘you’ve 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. You’ll see him there

and hear him speak in that rich, rolling voice

of his. You’ll also see a fascinating collection of

artefacts, from old school photos to the blue

painted door of his writing shed.

Dylan Thomas:A local legend, 100 years in the making


Dylan Thomas CentreSomerset Place, Swansea SA1 1RR( 01792 463980www.dylanthomas.com

Dylan Thomas BirthplaceDylan Thomas House,5 Cwmdonkin Drive, Uplands,Swansea SA2 0RA( 01792 [email protected] ParkSwansea SA2 0RA( 01792 205327www.cwmdonkinpark.co.uk

Dylan ThomasAttractions &Activ it ies12th Feb On The Edge: Number 5 Cwmdonkin Drive,

by Liz Wride, performance18th – 22nd Mar Under Milk Wood, performance directedby Terry Hands3rd – 5th Apr Under Milk Wood: an opera, in association withWelsh National Opera10th May Under the Cranes, film & Q&A, with poet Michael Rosen26th May Reminiscences of Childhood, solo performance31st May – 31st Aug Dylan Thomas Notebooks Exhibition7th Jun Dylan Thomas’ War: the Pacifist, the Propagandistand the Swansea Blitz, tour, talk and film screening13th Jun Dylan Thomas Walk, with the Gower Walking Festival10th Jul Under Milk Wood Jazz Suite, with the Gower Festival12th Jul Dylan Thomas’ Swansea Uplands: the Boy andthe Young Dog, tour and lecture, featuring Hannah Ellis, Dylan’sgranddaughter19th Jul Dylan Thomas’ Swansea Hollywood: the Mummyand the Old Dark House, tour, talk and film screening featuringscriptwriter Andrew Davies5th Sep – 24th Dec Dylan Thomas Manuscripts Exhibition6th Sep Dylan Thomas, the Kardomah Gang, the Actor andthe Comedian, tour and talk featuring Jeff Towns, Chairmanof the Dylan Thomas Society3rd – 4th Oct Time Let Me Play, Dylan Thomas’ poetryset to music, featuring concert artist Keith James11th Oct – Feb 2015 Dylan Thomas by Alfred Janes,art exhibition

Dylan’s Swansea,performance based guidedtours, with Fluellen TheatreCompany: various datesApr to Nov.

Return Journey, promenadeperformance, with LighthouseTheatre: various dates Mayto Sept.

This is just a selection ofevents, for more information onthese and many more go towww.dylanthomas.com.

11th Oct Wales Premiere of A Dylan ThomasTrilogy, with Swansea Festival of Music & theArts, featuring the BBC National Orchestra18th Oct Russian State PhilharmonicOrchestra play Karl Jenkins’ ‘Llareggub’,with Swansea Festival of Music & the Arts19th – 28th Oct The Beginning, ten days ofcelebration leading up to the 100th anniversary!24th – 26th Oct Do Not Go Gentle Festival,featuring music, literature, comedy and film27th Oct – 9th Nov Dylan Thomas Festival,events and special guests as our annual Festivalcelebrates Dylan’s centenary4th – 8th Nov A Child’s Christmas in Wales,Michael Bogdanov’s production of Dylan’sclassic story


Sea hereMarinas, museums, markets and more.There’s an ocean of possibilities in Wales’Waterfront City.


History buoysWe take our heritage seriously, but thatdoesn’t mean it can’t be fun. The hi-techNational Waterfront Museum lets you gethands on with history, telling the tale ofWales’ industry and people throughinnovative interactive exhibits. It’s certainlymade quite a splash. Opened in 2005,it has already welcomed more thantwo million visitors.

Just across the road from Wales’ newestmuseum is Wales’ oldest. Swansea Museummay be more traditional than its neighbour,but it’s just as entertaining. Home to a quirkycornucopia of exhibits, it throws up freshsurprises around every corner. Meet themummy, the golden 2,000-year old artefactfrom Egypt, or relive the times when Swanseawas an equally golden ‘Copperopolis’.

Dock starBlue Flags aren’t just for beaches.Our boat filled marina has also snappedup one of these prized seaside accolades.It’s easy to see why. Even if you’re aconfirmed landlubber, it’s hard to resist thenautical romance of sparkling water andcolourful sails snapping in the breeze.

Local flavoursYou’re never far from the water in ourcompact, visitor friendly city centre. Justacross the road from the seafront you’ll findyourself in shopping streets where big-namestores rub shoulders with inviting independentspeciality shops.

At the heart of it all is Swansea’s famouscovered market. It’s a lively place, a bustlingmaze of stalls where you can buy almostanything, from light bulbs to linen. But it’sfabulous food that’s the big draw. Try somelaverbread – our tasty seaweed-based localdelicacy – or pick up peppery cockles fromPenclawdd, Gower saltmarsh lamb andunbelievably fresh seafood that’s made theshort trip from the waters of Swansea Bay.It’s the place to go if you want a true tasteof the sea – and that traditional,warm hearted Swansea welcome.

Swansea’s relationship with all thingsmaritime goes back centuries. After all,the sea is right there in our name. Our historicdocklands have been reimagined andreinvented into a state-of-the-art, awardwinning Maritime Quarter. Dive in and you’llfind a buzzing complex packed with things tosee and do, from fascinating museums to coolwaterfront cafés. It’s the perfect location fora seaside stroll with a difference.


Beachcomber364 Oystermouth Road,Swansea SA1 3UL( 01792 651380www.beachcomberguesthouse.com´´´ GH

The Dragon HotelThe Kingsway, Swansea SA1 5LS( 01792 657100www.dragon-hotel.co.uk´´´´ / ´´´´ H

The Bayswater322 Oystermouth Road,Swansea SA1 3UJ( 01792 [email protected]

Morgans HotelSomerset Place, Swansea SA1 1RR( 01792 484848www.morganshotel.co.uk´´´´ H

Swansea Marriott HotelMaritime Quarter, Swansea SA1 3SS( 01792 642020www.swanseamarriott.co.uk´´´´ H

Chatcoombe B & B20 Rhyd-Y-Defaid Drive, Derwen Fawr,Sketty, Swansea SA2 8AH( 01792 207100www.chatcoombe.co.uk´´´´ BB

Premier Inn Swansea NorthUpper Forest Way, Morriston,Swansea SA6 8WB( 0871 527 9062www.premierinn.com/swanseanorthBH

Premier InnSwansea WaterfrontWaterfront Development, Langdon Road,Swansea SA1 8PL( 0871 527 9212www.premierinn.com/swanseawaterfrontBH

Premier InnSwansea City CentreSalubrious Place, Wind Street,Swansea SA1 1EE( 0871 527 9060www.premierinn.com/swanseacitycentreBH

Accommodation in the Swansea Area


Village Urban ResortLangdon Road, SA1 Waterfront,Swansea SA1 8QY( 0871 222 4608www.village-hotels.comL

Mercure SwanseaPhoenix Way, Swansea SA6 8LW( 01792 [email protected]´´´ H

Campus Accommodation,Swansea UniversitySingleton Park, Swansea SA2 8PP( 01792 295665www.swansea.ac.uk/conferences´´´ – ´´´´ CA

Somerfield Lodge B & BClyne Golf Club,118-120 Owls Lodge Lane,Mayals, Swansea SA3 5DP( 01792 401989www.clynegolfclub.com´´´´ GA

Victoria QuayVictoria Quay, Maritime Quarter,Swansea SA1 3XG( 01269 595640www.canolcottages.com´´´´ SC

Bay Apartments29 Camona Drive, Maritime Quarter,Swansea SA1 1YJ( 01792 645566www.bayapartments.co.ukAG – ´´´´ SC

Clyne Farm CottagesWestport Avenue, Mayals,Swansea SA3 5AR( 01792 [email protected]´´´ – ´´´´ SC

Gower Edge Holidays52A Killan Road, Dunvant,Swansea SA2 7TH( 01608 674467www.gower-edge-holidays.co.uk´´´ SC


Wales National Pool SwanseaSketty Lane, Swansea SA2 8QG( 01792 513513www.walesnationalpoolswansea.co.uk

West GlamorganArchive ServiceCivic Centre, Swansea SA1 3SN( 01792 636589www.swansea.gov.uk/westglamorganarchives

Swansea Grand TheatreSingleton Street, Swansea SA1 3QJ( 01792 475715www.swanseagrand.co.uk

LCOystermouth Road, Swansea SA1 3ST( 01792 466500www.thelcswansea.com

Swansea PromMumbles Road, Swansea( 01792 468321www.swanseaprom.com

PlantasiaParc Tawe, Swansea SA1 2AL( 01792 474555www.plantasia.org

Swansea Parksand GardensSwanseawww.breatheswansea.com

Glynn Vivian Art Gallery –OffsiteActivities at YMCA, Swansea.Events at various venues.( 01792 516900www.glynnviviangallery.org

1940’s SwanseaBay MuseumBaldwin’s Crescent, Crymlyn Burrows,Swansea SA1 8PT( 01792 458864www.1940sswanseabay.co.uk

360 Beach and WatersportsMumbles Road, Swansea SA2 0AY

( 01792 655844www.360swansea.co.uk

Skidz Karting Ltd.Unit 1 Rear of Queensway,Swansea West Business Park,Swansea SA5 4DJ( 01792 [email protected]

National Waterfront MuseumOystermouth Road, Swansea SA1 3RD

( (029) 2057 3600www.museumwales.ac.uk

Down to Earth72a Manselfield Road, Murton,Swansea SA3 3AP( 01792 232439www.downtoearthproject.org.uk

Annie from WalesTour Guide & Dylan Thomas Specialist

( 07817 753376www.anniefromwales.com

Teamforce Paintball& Activity CentreLlangyfelach Road, Llangyfelach,Swansea SA5 7PE( 01792 772311www.teamforceuk.com

Dynamic RockAdventures Ltd.16-18 Hebron Road, Clydach,Swansea SA6 5EJ( 01792 [email protected]

Clyne Farm Ridingand Activity CentreWestport Avenue, Mayals,Swansea SA3 5AR( 01792 [email protected]

Swansea MuseumVictoria Road, Maritime Quarter,Swansea SA1 1SN( 01792 653763www.swanseamuseum.co.uk

Swansea CommunityBoat TrustSwansea Museum Pontoon,Museum Square, Maritime Quarter,Swansea SA1 3XA( 07785 347549www.scbt.org.uk

Swansea MarketOxford Street, Swansea SA1 3PQ( 01792 654296www.swanseaindoormarket.co.uk

Swansea TouristInformation CentrePlymouth Street, Swansea SA1 3QG( 01792 468321www.visitswanseabay.com

Attractions & Activities in the Swansea Area


Attraction stationsIndoors or outdoors, wet or dry - there’s somuch to do in our city by the sea.

Wales’ Waterfront City comes with some bigadvantages. There aren’t many places where youcan hit the shops in the morning and hit the surf inthe afternoon. In pretty, beachy Swansea, we’vegot the best of both worlds.

One fine BayThrill seekers will make a bee line to 360 Beachand Watersports, Swansea’s new Centre ofExcellence for all things watersporty (the clue isin the name). For real sea dogs the centre offersactivities like sea kayaking and kite surfing, whilethose who don’t fancy getting their feet wet canenjoy sandy beach volleyball, soccer and powerkiting. The 360 comes complete with a welcomingcafé-bar serving up delicious locally sourced food.Just the thing for when you’ve 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 thepopular waterpark or scale the four storey climbingwall – provided you have a head for heights.You can even catch waves on Boardrider, the firstindoor surfing experience of its kind anywhere inthe world.


Surf and turfSea and sand are just part of the big Swansea picture.This is a green city, dotted throughout with lush parks andgardens – more than 50 in total.

We’re well known for our Blue Flag beaches, but our green spacesare star performers too. Brynmill Park, Clyne Gardens, CwmdonkinPark, Singleton Botanical Gardens and Victoria Park are all proudholders of a prestigious Green Flag Award.

We’ve even got our own miniature rainforest, smack in the citycentre. Housed in a huge glass pyramid, Plantasia is burstingwith exotic vegetation, along with a colourful collection ofanimals including monkeys, snakes and lizards.


Our beautiful peninsula is a place where

inspirational views go hand in hand with

outdoor adventure. Gower’s panoramas

wouldn’t look out of place in an art gallery,

but its rugged landscape demands to be

experienced hands on. It’s the complete

opposite of ‘look, but don’t touch’.

Hey, good lookingGower’s been wowing visitors foryears. But don’t take our word for it –the Peninsula was designated the UK’s

first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

way back in 1956. It hasn’t changedmuch since then.

Though it’s less than 20 miles long and

covers just 70 square miles, Gower’slandscape packs in oceans of variety.

You’ll find craggy limestone cliffs in the south,

long sandy beaches in the west and ethereal

salt marshes in the north. In between there’s

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 Worm’s Head at the

edge of Rhossili Bay is one of Gower’s most

iconic sights. It’s the ultimate shop window

for the Peninsula’s stunning scenery. With its

rugged cliffs and grassy spine, it’s almost

a miniature version of Gower itself.

Sights, camera, action!Gorgeous Gower might be picture-perfect.But it’s more than just a pretty face.


Make a splashStay on dry land in Gower and you’re only getting half the story.The warm waters and superior swell of sandy Llangennith havebeen a surfer’s paradise for decades. In that time we’ve added kitesurfing, sea kayaking and paddle boarding to our watery repertoire.

The truly adventurous can even combine land and sea with aspot of coasteering – climbing on our rugged cliffs to leap intothe waves below.

Feet firstIt’s no surprise to learn that Gower has some of most beautifulstretches of the 870 mile Wales Coast Path. Strap on those bootsand you’re in for some spectacular waterfront walks. And, as abonus, there’s usually more to see than sand and sea. The short4½ mile coast walk between Port Eynon and Oxwich, for example,also takes in lush woodland and some of Gower’s prettiestman made landmarks in the form of Tudor Oxwich Castle and13th century St Illtyd’s Church.


The Wormshead HotelRhossili, Gower, Swansea SA3 1PP( 01792 390512www.thewormshead.co.uk´´ SH

Tallizmand Guest HouseTallizmand, Llanmadoc, Gower,Swansea SA3 1DE( 01792 386373www.tallizmand.co.uk´´´´ GH

FairyhillReynoldston, Gower, Swansea SA3 1BS( 01792 390139www.fairyhill.net´´´´´ / ´´´´´ RR

Parc-le-Breos HouseParkmill, Gower, Swansea SA3 2HA( 01792 371636www.parclebreos.co.uk´´´´ / ´´´´ F

Fairways B & B110 Owls Lodge Lane, Clyne Common,Swansea SA3 5DP( 01792 401080www.fairwaysweb.com´´´´ BB

Gower Golf ClubCefn Goleu, Three Crosses,Swansea SA4 3HS( 01792 [email protected]

Seren RetreatBryncoch Farm, Gower, Swansea SA2 7LB( 01792 371421www.serenretreat.com´´´´ BB

Westwinds B & BWestwinds, Blackhills Lane,Fairwood, Swansea SA2 7JN( 01792 281573www.westwindsbandb.co.uk´´´´ BB

Kings Head InnLlangennith, Gower, Swansea SA3 1HX( 01792 386212www.kingsheadgower.co.uk´´´´ INN

Oldwalls GowerOldwalls, Nr Llanrhidian, Gower SA3 1HA( 01792 391468www.oldwallsgower.com´´´´´ GA

The King Arthur HotelHigher Green, Reynoldston,Swansea SA3 1AD( 01792 390775www.kingarthurhotel.co.uk´´´ INN

WyndgarthReynoldston, Swansea SA3 1AD( 01792 390140www.wyndgarthgowerbedandbreakfast.co.uk´´´´ BB

Bayholme Cottage& Holiday Bungalow Bayholme, Oxwich, Gower,Swansea SA3 1LS( 01792 390785 / 874www.bayholmegower.co.uk´´´ – ´´´´´ SC

Caswell Holiday Chalets& Gower Coast LtdSummercliffe Chalet Park, Gower,Swansea SA3 3BR( 01792 233599www.gowercoast.com´´ – ´´´ SC

Westernside BungalowsHorton, Gower, Swansea SA3 1LL( 01792 [email protected]´´´ SC

Cedi CottagesBlaen Cedi Farm, Blue Anchor,Penclawdd, Swansea SA4 3LX( 01792 851448www.walesgowercottages.co.uk´´´´ SC

HighmeadOverton, Port Eynon, Swansea SA3 1NR( 01792 390300www.highmeadgower.co.uk´´´´ SC

Ash CottageOxwich, Gower, Swansea SA3 1LS( 01792 391207www.gower-cottages.co.uk´´´´ SC

The CrossLlangennith, Gower, Swansea SA3 1HU( 01792 390000www.thecrossgower.co.ukL

Accommodation in the Gower Area


Whiteshell Chalets

Summercliffe Chalet Park, Caswell,

Swansea SA3 3BP

( 01792 424186www.caswell-chalet.co.uk

´´´ SC

Green Meadows Annexe

Green Meadows, 23 Tirmynydd Rd,

Three Crosses, Swansea SA4 3PP

( 01792 [email protected]

´´´´ SC

The Penthouse24 Woodridge Court, Langland,

Swansea SA3 4TH

( 01792 535309www.gowerbreaks.com

´´´´´ SC

The HavenRectory Meadows, Reynoldston,

Swansea SA3 1AD

( 01792 535309www.gowerbreaks.com

´´´´ SC

Gower Activity Centres

Group Accommodation

(YHA Partner)Port Eynon, Rhossili & West Cross

( 01792 401548www.goweractivitycentres.org.uk

´´ – ´´´ AcA / B / GA

31 Gower Holiday Village

Scurlage, Nr Port Eynon, Gower,

Swansea SA3 1AY

( 01432 760963www.31gowerholidayvillage.co.uk

´´´ SC

The StableAsh Tree Cottage, Penmaen, Gower,

Swansea SA3 2HQ

( 01792 371459www.thestableashtreecottage.

talktalk.net´´´´ SC

Hael Farm Cottages

Hael Farm, Hael Lane, Southgate,

Swansea SA3 2AP

( 01792 232797www.haelfarmcottages.co.uk

L – ´´´´´ SC

Horton Farmhouse

Horton Farm, Horton, Gower,

Swansea SA3 1LB

( 01792 390256www.hortonfarmgower.co.uk

´´´´ SC

Slade BarnBettis Meadow, Slade, Gower,

Swansea SA3 1NA

( 01792 391551www.sladebarngower.co.uk

´´´´´ SC

Three Cliffs Bay

Holiday Cottages

North Hills Farm, Penmaen,

Swansea SA3 2HB

( 01792 371218www.threecliffsbay.com

AG – ´´´´ SC

Pitton Cross Farm

Pitton Cross, Rhossili, Gower,

Swansea SA3 1PH

( 01792 391175www.pittoncrossfarmhouse.co.uk

´´´´ SC

Tir-Cethin FarmLuxury Barn Holidays

Tir-Cethin Farm, Three Crosses,

Gower, Swansea SA4 3NA

( 07876 030985www.tircethinfarm.co.uk

´´´´´ SC

Frogs Hop Cottage

Oxwich, South Gower, Swansea SA3 1LS


´´´´ SC

Bank Farm Bungalows

Bank Farm Leisure Park, Horton,

Gower, Swansea SA3 1LL

( 01792 390228www.bankfarmleisure.co.uk

´´´ SC

Gower Holiday Village

Scurlage, Nr Port Eynon, Gower,

Swansea SA3 1AY

( 01792 390431www.gowerholidayvillage.co.uk

´´´ SC

Bank Farm Leisure Park

Horton, Gower, Swansea SA3 1LL

( 01792 390228www.bankfarmleisure.co.uk

´´´ HTC

Greenways of Gower

Oxwich Green, South Gower,

Swansea SA3 1LY

( 01792 391203www.greenwaysleisure.co.uk

´´´´ HC

Scamperholidays

North Hills Farm, North Hills Lane,

Penmaen, Gower, Swansea SA3 2HB

( 01792 202325www.scamperholidays.co.uk

SP – APP AA

Pitton Cross Caravan

and Camping Park

Rhossili, Swansea SA3 1PT

( 01792 390593www.pittoncross.co.uk

Wales Coast Pathwww.walescoastpath.gov.uk

Rhossili National TrustShop & Visitor Centre3 Coastguard Cottages, Rhossili,Gower, Swansea SA3 1PR( 01792 390707www.nationaltrust.org.uk/rhossili-shop-and-visitor-centre

Gower Activity CentresPort Eynon, Rhossili & West Cross( 01792 401548www.goweractivitycentres.org.uk

Parc-le-BreosPony TrekkingParc-le-Breos House, Parkmill,Gower, Swansea SA3 2HA( 01792 371636www.parclebreos.co.uk

Pennard Golf Club2 Southgate Road, Southgate,Swansea SA3 2BT( 01792 233131www.pennardgolfclub.com

Dryad BushcraftGower, Swansea( 01792 547213www.dryadbushcraft.co.uk

Gower Heritage CentreParkmill, Gower Peninsula,Swansea SA3 2EH( 01792 371206www.gowerheritagecentre.co.uk

Surf GSD Gower SurfingPO Box 83, Swansea SA3 4XX( 07739 536122www.gowersurfing.com

Welsh Surfing FederationSurf SchoolLlangennith, Swansea SA3 1JD( 01792 386426www.wsfsurfschool.co.uk

Oxwich WatersportsThe Beach Hut, Oxwich Beach,Oxwich, Swansea SA3 1LS( 07740 284079www.oxwichwatersports.co.uk

Gower Coast AdventuresBoat TripsGower, Swansea( 01792 348229www.gowercoastadventures.co.uk

Attractions & Activities in the Gower Area



Riding high at Rhossili

We’ve always known that our be

aches

were world-beaters, but it’s nice

to have

some further proof. Big, beautiful

Rhossili

was voted the best beach in the

UK and the

third best in Europe by TripAdviso

r users in

2013. Not only that, but the Rad

io Times

also gave it a stellar ‘must-visit’

rating,

describing it as a ‘pristine bay… the place

to come for watersports. Sea ka

yakers,

surfers and kite boarders don’t ne

ed to

jostle for space along the three m

ile

stretch of water’.

The perfect spot for seaside stro

lls, nature

spotting and pulse pounding wa

tersports,

Rhossili is a real crowd pleaser. N

ot that

it ever feels crowded on this spac

ious,

sweeping expanse of shoreline. W

orm’s

Head – Gower’s own ‘land’s end

’ – lies at

one extreme, the lush tidal islan

d of Burry

Holms at the other. In between, y

ou’ll find

mile upon mile of immaculate san

d, the

ultimate blank canvas for your ow

n

personal seaside adventure.

Making wavesWhen it comes to sea and sand,we have it in spades (and buckets).The gorgeous Gower Peninsula is hometo a raft of chart-topping beaches.


Coast with the mostRhossili is just one of many bathin

g 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.

Isn’t it good to know that some things will

never change?


Off the beaten trackThe nooks and crannies of Gower’s 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 Peninsula’s best bird watching.

Pretty Three Cliffs Bay isn’t quite so remote, but its‘Michelin-star views’ and combination of rolling dunes, sandy beach and craggy limestone cliffs add up to oneof Gower’s wildest seaside experiences.

Tales of smuggling and the supernatural loom large in isolated

Brandy Cove’s history. The pirates and witches have long gone,

but the rugged bay still holds a powerful air of mystery.

Kidding aroundThe 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 you’ll encounter on your own miniature marinesafari. Sandy Port Eynon and Oxwich are two more familyfavourites, 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.


The beautiful southLangland Bay and Caswell Bay are two moreGower gems strung out along the Peninsula’ssouth coast. They’re a pair of sheltered, perfectlyformed sandy crescents – Langland even comeswith its row of charming beach huts, a lovelyperiod touch.

Up northWhat a difference five miles makes. North Gowermight well be on another planet. You’re not quitesure where land meets sea on this misty, moodyexpanse of low-lying saltings. The sheep seemto know, mind you. You’ll see them grazing onmarshland. Gower saltmarsh lamb is some of thebest in the world. For seafood fans, Penclawddcockles, picked fresh from the beds and takenstraight to Swansea Market, are prettygood too.

Paws for thoughtWe think that the whole family should be ableto enjoy our stunning seaside and that includesthe four-legged members. Dogs are welcome allyear round on many of Gower’s beaches. Rhossiliwas even named the UK’s top dog friendly beachby The Times. Phew, yet another accolade.


Listen upIt’s a unique mix of old school seasideand cosmopolitan cool. Mumbles has plentyto shout about.


Mumbles is the kind of neighbour we’d

all like to have. Just five miles fromSwansea, 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.

Decision timeDo 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 don’t 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. We’ve also got four proper

Italian ice cream parlours that always go

down well with young and old alike. You’d

struggle to find Mumbles’ quirky qualities and

perky personality anywhere else. No wonder

we’re so fond of it. You’ll like it too.

Something old, something newMumbles’ long heritage stretches backfurther 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, thisfantastic fortress has recently received

something of a facelift. Previously unseen

areas of the castle are now open to the

public, with visitors getting a bird’s eye view

from a stunning glass bridge. It’s another

example of Mumbles’ knack of blending

yesterday with today.


The beach goes onSitting at the gateway to Gower, Mumblesis the ideal jumping off point to explore thePeninsula’s beautiful beaches. Venture roundthe headland at the end of the Promenadeand you’ll find rockpool dotted Bracelet Bay.Walk a little further and you’re soon in thetwin sandy surf paradises of Langland Bayand Caswell Bay. Keen explorers can strikefurther into Gower with a bouncy boat trip toPort Eynon or the spectacular ‘land’s end’of Worm’s Head.Top tip: keep your eyes peeled forporpoises and seals along the way.

Tides Reach388 Mumbles Road, Swansea SA3 5TN

( 01792 [email protected]´´´´ GA

Langland RoadBed and Breakfast17 Langland Road, Mumbles,Swansea SA3 4ND( 01792 361170www.langlandroad.co.uk´´´´ BB

Langland Bay HouseBed & Breakfast27 Langland Bay House,Langland Bay Road,Swansea SA3 4QP( 01792 [email protected]

´´´´´ BB

Park Villa Luxury BreaksPark Villa, 21D Langland Road,Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4ND

( 07970 [email protected]´´´´ SC

Home from HomeHoliday Cottages101 Newton Road, Mumbles,Swansea SA3 4BN( 01792 360624www.homefromhome.comAG – ´´´´´ SC

Gold Star HolidaysUnit 9 Castleton Walk,26 Newton Road, Mumbles,Swansea SA3 4AX( 01792 360555www.goldstarholidaylettings.co.uk

AG – ´´´´´ SC

Gower Getaways162 Newton Road, Newton,Swansea SA3 4UD( 01792 369694www.gowergetaways.co.uk´´´ – ´´´´´ SC

Driftwood ChaletLimeslade, Mumbles,Swansea SA3 4JP( 01792 405471www.driftwoodchalet.co.uk´´´ SC

Riversdale Cottage7 Riversdale Road, Norton, Mumbles,

Swansea SA3 5PU( 07952 635815www.riversdalecottage.co.uk´´´´ SC

Sea Breeze Holiday Chalet16 Bridle Mews, Limeslade, Mumbles,

Swansea SA3 4JP( 07811 607141www.mumblesgowerselfcatering.co.uk´´´ SC

Pilton House2 Nottage Road, Newton, Mumbles,

Swansea SA3 4SU( 01792 360624www.homefromhome.com/cottage-details/299#´´´´ SC

Accommodation in the Mumbles Area


Oystermouth CastleCastle Avenue, Mumbles,Swansea SA3 4BA( 01792 361302www.swansea.gov.uk/oystermouthcastle

Mumbles TouristInformation CentreMumbles Methodist Church,520b Mumbles Road, Mumbles,Swansea SA3 4DE( 01792 361302www.mumblesinfo.org.uk

Dragoncrafts530 Mumbles Road, Mumbles,Swansea SA3 4DH( 01792 360640www.dragoncraftswales.co.uk

The Lovespoon Gallery492 Mumbles Road, Mumbles,Swansea SA3 4BX( 01792 360132www.lovespoongallery.com

Attractions &Activities in theMumbles Area


Mawr than meets the eyeSwansea Bay isn’t just sand and surf. Mawr’s moorsand uplands are a green great escape for walkers.


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 forwardExplore gentle trails around the r

eservoirs of the Lliw Valley.

Water is a big feature in these parts, even when you aren’t on the

coast. If you’re after something more strenuous, make the climb

to Penlle’r Castell. It’s S wansea’s 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 845040www.cartrefholidays.co.uk

´´´´ SC

Accommodationin the Mawr Area

Penllergare Valley WoodsPenllergaer, Swansea SA4 9GS( 01792 344224www.penllergare.org

Attractions &Activities in theMawr Area


Green giantsThe Afan Valley and Vale of Neath, lined withwoods and waterfalls, are lush and leafy.


Falling starsThe Vale of Neath’s wild, woode

d 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 Vale’s steep gorges contain

some of Wales’ most spectacular cascades.

The deep pool at the foot of Sgwd Gwladys is

a popular spot for adventurous swimmers. If you

don’t fancy getting that wet, follow the path

behind the white waters of Sgwd yr Eira – literally

‘The Fall of Snow’. You may end up a little damp,

but it’s a small price to pay for a real one of a kind

behind the scenes waterfall view.

It’s 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 dealLose yourself in the steep, dens

ely wooded landscapes of the

Afan Valley and you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d wandered

into the Alps. This former mining centre has replaced pit wheels

with bike wheels to become one of the UK’s 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 –Afan’s newest addition.

Keep it gre enWe’re big on park life. Margam C

ountry 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.


Castle HotelThe Parade, Neath SA11 1RB

( 01639 641119www.castlehotelneath.co.uk

´´´ / ´´´ H

Bluebell Hotel14-16 The Parade, Neath SA11 1RA

( 01639 644000www.thebluebellneath.co.uk

´´´´ H

Best WesternAberavon Beach Hotel

Princess Margaret Way, Swansea Bay,

Port Talbot SA12 6QP

( 01639 884949www.aberavonbeach.com

´´´ / ´´´ H

Cwmbach Guest House

Cwmbach Cottages,

Cwmbach Road, Cadoxton,

Neath SA10 8AH

( 01639 639825www.cwmbachguesthouse.co.uk

´´´´ GH

Cwmbach Lodges

Cwmbach Cottages,

Cwmbach Road, Cadoxton,

Neath SA10 8AH

( 01639 639825www.cwmbachguesthouse.co.uk

´´´´ SC

Cwmshon Cottages

Brook Cottage, Llanguicke Road,

Ynysmeudwy, Pontardawe,

Swansea SA8 4PL

( 01792 865237www.cwmshoncottageswales.co.uk

´´´´´ SC

Swansea Valley

Holiday Cottages

Plas Farm, Cilybebyll, Pontardawe,

Swansea SA8 3JQ

( 01792 864611www.walescottages.com

´´´´ – ´´´´´ SC

1 & 2 Tan Yr Eglwys

Cilybebyll, Pontardawe,

Swansea SA8 3JR


´´´´ SC

Glyncorrwg Ponds Campsite

Glyncorrwg Ponds Co-operative,

Ynyscorrwg Park, Glyncorrwg,

Port Talbot SA13 3EA

( 01639 851900www.glyncorrwgponds

visitorcentre.co.uk

´´´ TC

Accommodation in the

Afan & Vale of Neath Area

Aberdulais Tinworks& WaterfallNational Trust, Aberdulais,Neath SA10 8EU( 01639 [email protected]

South WalesMiners’ MuseumAfan Forest Park, Cynonville,Port Talbot SA13 3HG( 01639 851833www.swmm.co.uk

Margam Country ParkMargam, Port Talbot SA13 2TJ( 01639 881635www.margamcountrypark.co.uk

Adventure BritainCall of the Wild Ltd,83 Church Road, Seven Sisters,Neath SA10 9DT( 01639 700388www.adventurebritain.com

Go Ape MargamMargam Country Park,Port Talbot SA13 2TJ( 0845 094 9639www.goape.co.uk/margam

Dulais Valley QuadsNant y Cafn Isaf Farm, Seven Sisters,Neath SA10 9EU( 07854 864724www.dulaisvalley-quads.co.uk

Attractions & Activities in theAfan & Vale of Neath Area


2014 Events

February22nd – 2nd Mar Pirate Week, Gower Heritage Centre

MarchFrom 1st St David’s Week Celebrations

8th & 9th Celtic Craft Fayre, Gower Heritage Centre

April12th – 27th Easter Fun, Gower Heritage Centre

19th Dungeons & Dragons Day, Oystermouth Castle

21st Margam Park Easter Fun Day

26th Gorseinon Food Festival

27th Welsh Mam’s Day, Cwmdonkin Park

May1st – 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)

June7th – 22nd Gower Walking Festival

14th Festival of Transport, City Centre

15th Festival of Transport – Under Milk WoodRoad Run, Bracelet Bay to Laugharne

July(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

August1st – 31st Botanics in Bloom, Botanical Gardens

at Singleton Park

3rd Gower Show9th – 16th Gower Cycling Festival

16th – 22nd Dart 18 Catamaran EuropeanChampionships (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

October3rd & 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

November5th 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

DecemberChristmas 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.com anddon’t forget our Dylan Thomas centenary celebrations –the highlights are featured on pages 2 & 3.


By TrainNational Rail enquiries( 08457 484950www.nationalrail.co.uk

Heart of Wales Linewww.heart-of-wales.co.uk

By CoachNational Express enquiry line( 08717 818178www.nationalexpress.com

By CarThe M4 motorway brings you directlyto Swansea Bay from London and theSouth East. The M6, M5, M42 and M50link the area with the Midlands and theNorth West, North East and SouthWest of England.

By AirCardiff International Airport( 01446 711111www.cardiff-airport.com

By SeaSailings operate between Rosslareand Fishguard or Pembroke Dock,90 minutes away from Swansea.

Irish Ferries (Pembroke)( 08717 300400www.irishferries.com

Stena Line (Fishguard)( 08447 707070www.stenaline.co.uk

Travelling aroundSwansea BayTraveline Cymru( 08712 002233www.traveline-cymru.info

Park & Ridewww.swansea.gov.uk/parkandride

Must see, Must do,Must stay !If you would like to find outmore about the accommodation,attractions and activities listedplease contact direct or go to theirpage on www.visitswanseabay.com.

Access information is online atwww.visitswanseabay.com orcontact the accommodation,attraction or activity to ensurethey have everything you need.

Please check with youraccommodation prior to bookingif you are bringing your pet. Dogsare welcome on many beaches,but some have seasonal dog bansfrom 1st May to 30th September.See www.visitswanseabay.com.

We want you to have a greattime when you visit – so pleasecheck and confirm all detailsbefore booking or travelling.

A quality experienceAll the accommodationfeatured here and onwww.visitswanseabay.com hasbeen independently assessed byeither Visit Wales or the AA andeach rated according to theirquality and facilities.

Tourist InformationCentresSwanseaPlymouth Street, Swansea SA1 3QG( 01792 [email protected] ALL YEAR

Mumbles( 01792 [email protected] ALL YEAR

Useful Info

BayTransLocal travel information usingpublic transport.www.baytrans.org.uk

Local Travel Info

Occasionally it is not possible toassess a property prior topublication and in these cases theproperty is marked as ‘AwaitingGrading’. All gradings and awardswere correct at time of publication.For further information on gradingvisit www.wales.gov.uk/tourism.

Play safeWe want you to enjoy your time inSwansea Bay, so make sure thatyou have the proper equipmentbefore you begin any activity andcheck the tide tables prior to anycoastal activity. The tide can turnvery quickly with strong coastalcurrents – for more info go towww.visitswanseabay.com.Please do not attempt anyactivity without instructionif you are inexperienced.

Our attraction and activityoperators take play very seriouslyand as appropriate are recognisedby accrediting organisations –visit their page onwww.visitswanseabay.comfor more details.

Please mention this SwanseaBay Holiday Guide when youmake your booking.

Thank you!

visitswanseabay€¦ · a swansea boy, r n i 19 4. so 2014 si a very sp ec ial y ar for us. o n ehu...

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