Swansea

From Wikitravel

Swansea (Welsh: Abertawe) is a city on South Wales's coast.

Understand

Swansea (population 250,000) is Wales' second largest city and located on the beautiful Gower Peninsular - the UK's first designated "Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty". During medieval times, Swansea was a prosperous market town, and later it gained a certain prominence as a spa resort. It was during the industrial revolution, however, that the city flourished and its population grew. The city is home to the world's first passenger railway service known affectionately as the Mumbles Train, which bumped and bounced along five miles of Swansea foreshore, linking the city center with the suburb of Mumbles. Much of the city's architectural heritage was lost through wartime bombing. However, the abundance of parks, stunning coastal scenery, the magnificent bayside Maritime Quarter, varied cultural events, medieval castles and golden sandy beaches have preserved Swansea's place as a major tourist destination. Furthermore, according to a survey conducted by an international health magazine that considered, among other factors, a city's crime rate, life-style, environment etc, Swansea was found to be the most relaxed city in the UK. Citizens from Wales' second city are known as 'Swansea Jacks,' and the name 'Swansea' is derived from 'Sweyn's-ey,' the Scandinavian name for the original settlement.

Famous faces

Swansea's rich and diverse history has created a city of character, which has proved to be very fertile ground for producing well known personalities. In the literary world, Dylan Thomas is Swansea's most famous son, and inscriptions of his verse can been seen throughout the city. The actress Catherine Zeta Jones was also born and raised here, and maintains close links with the city, and the singer Bonnie Tyler is also a Swansea girl and still lives in the city. Sir Harry Seacombe, who entertained the country for decades, hails from Swansea's East Side, and also in the entertainment world, the TV film producer Russel T. Davies has his roots in the city, as does actor-turned singer Steve Balsamo. In the upper echelons of religion and politics, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Rowan Williams, former deputy-prime minister, Sir Michael Heseltine, and current leader of the Conservative Party, Michael Howard, were all born in Swansea, while the city's most famous contribution to the sporting world was the soccer legend, John Charles - the gentle giant.

Within a few miles of Swansea is the birthplace of Hollywood legends Richard Burton, Anthony Hopkins and Ray Milland.

The city's most loved character, however, is undoubtedly Jack - the black retriever. During his seven years of life he rescued no less than twenty-seven people from drowning in the murky waters of Swansea docks, and there is a small memorial in honour of this little hero on the foreshore near the St. Helen's Stadium.

Get in

By car

The M4 motorway links the city to London, with connections to the M6, M5, M32, M42 and M50.

By bus

The National Express company (http://www.nationalexpress.com/) runs frequent bus services to London, the Midlands, Wales, Scotland the north of England and Heathrow Airport. All buses depart and arrive at the Quadrant Bus Station. Inquires:0990 80 80 80.

By plane

Swansea is served by its own regional airport, light aircraft only [1] (http://www.swanseaairport.com). Inquires:207550, and Cardiff International Airport [2] (http:cardiffairportonline.com), which is about a fifty minute drive from the city. Inquires:01446 711111.

By train

Great Western Trains (http://www.firstgreatwestern.co.uk/travelinfo/fgwtimetables.php/) offer a very frequent service from Swansea High Street Station to London Paddington Station, stopping at Neath, Port Talbot, Bridgend, Cardiff, Newport, Bristol Parkway, Swindon and Reading. Inquires:08457 48 49 50

Travelers arriving from Heathrow have the option of taking the shuttle bus to Reading and boarding the west bound train there - this saves traveling into London - or taking the Heathrow Express [3] (http://www.heathrowexpress.com/) high speed rail link to London Paddington Station. This service runs every 15 minutes from terminals 1,2,3 or every 23 minutes from terminal 4 and takes 15 minutes: £13 (single); £25 (return).

Arriva Trains (http://www.arrivatrainswales.co.uk/) run routes west of Swansea. After leaving Swansea, the train follows of the contours of the coast. A left side seat will give you the best view. Inquires:08457 48 49 50

The famous Heart of Wales Line (http://www.heart-of-wales.co.uk/) runs between the medieval town of Shrewsbury and Swansea, passing through some of Wales' most spectacular scenery and picturesque towns during its three hour and forty minute journey. Trains depart Swansea at 9:17AM, 1:22PM and 5:48PM.

By boat

Swansea-Cork Ferries (http://ferrybooker.com/swansea_cork/swansea_cork_ferries.asp/) sails six times a week to Cork in Ireland, with a reduced schedule in autumn and winter. Inquires:456116.

Get around

Buses: The First Bus Company maintains frequent services connecting all suburbs of Swansea and the Gower Peninsula [4] (http://www.firstgroup.com/ukbus/wales/swwales/home/). All buses depart from the Quadrant bus station, and there are connecting links to/from Swansea's High Street train station.

Taxis: There are two main taxi ranks in the city center - one outside High Street Station and the other next to St.Mary's church.

See

Oystermouth Castle interior

Oystermouth Castle interior

Landmarks

Swansea Castle[5] (http://www.castlewales.com/swansea.html)- the ruins of this 13th century castle are located in the city center. While the remains are not substantial enough to warrant a special visit, the contrast of the battlements against the more contemporary architecture of its surroundings does provide an interesting backdrop for souvenir photographs of Swansea city center - the building is flood lit at night.
The Guildhall - This elegant building of white Portland stone has graced the city center's western approach since 1934. The main building only houses administrative offices and is of no interest to the casual visitor. However, Sir Frank Brangwyn's murals (originally intended for the House of Lords, but considered too frivolous) that grace the interior of the Brangwyn Hall are definitely worth viewing. The Brangwyn Hall is located on the sea-facing side of the building and functions as the city's main concert and reception hall.
Dylan Thomas' Childhood Home (http://www.5cwmdonkindrive.com/), 5 Cwmdonkin Drive, Uplands - currently under renovation.
Oystermouth Castle [6] (http://castlewales.com/oyster.html), located in Mumbles, the battlements of this castle offer commanding views over Swansea Bay, and it is one of Swansea's finest and best preserved fortresses. There is a small entry fee.

Museums and Galleries

the National Waterfront Museum [7] (http://www.nmgw.ac.uk/nwms/dynamic/home_eng.php), Marina - Housed in an iconic building clad in Welsh slate, the National Waterfront Museum represents an exciting and innovative way to explore the development of the industrial revolution - through the eyes of the people whose lives it touched and transformed. The toil, the achievements, the defeats and the joys are revealed through the museum's creative exhibitions. Children will particularly enjoy the working machinery. There are also cafes and gift shops overlooking the marina. This is one of the UK's most imaginative exhibition spaces and must-see destinations. Opening in Summer of 2005.
the Dylan Thomas Centre [8] (http://www.dylanthomas.org/), Somerset Place, Marina - This spendid example of early 19th century architecture served as Swansea Guildhall for over 100 years. It became the Dylan Thomas Center in 1995 when it was refurbished in commemoration of Swansea hosting the 1995 UK Year of Literature and Writing, and was opened by former US President Jimmy Carter. The center is dedicated to the works of Swansea's greatest literary son, and in addition to a theater, exhibition and events hall, the center also has a second hand book store and gift shop. The local cuisine served in the second floor restaurant is highly recommended. Tel:463980 Open Tues-Sun, 9AM-10PM. Admission free.
the Glyn Vivian Art Gallery [9] (http://www.swanseaheritage.net/), Mansel street. Tel:655006. The gallery has permanent exhibits of paintings by local artists and a good collection of Swansea china. In addition, it frequently hosts exhibitions of national and international works of art. Open: Tues-Sun 9AM-5PM. Admission free.
Swansea Museum [10] (http://www.swanseaheritage.net), Marina. Tel:653763. This grade two, neo classic building was Wales' first museum, and displays artifacts as diverse as Swansea china and an Egyptian mummy. The museum gift shop sells good quality souvenirs. Open: Tues-Sun 9AM-5PM. Admission free.
Gower Heritage Centre [11] (http://www.gowerheritagecentre.co.uk/), Parkmill, Gower, Swansea. Tel:371206 - a rural life museum based around a working water mill - gift shop and cafe on site.
the Egypt Centre [12] (http://www.swan.ac.uk/egypt/), near Taliesin Art Centre, Swansea University campus. Open Tues-Sat, 10AM-4PM, entry free. Tel:295 960 - one of the UK's best collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts outside London.
Attic Gallery [13] (http://www.atticgallery.co.uk/), 140 Cambrian Place, Marina. Tel:653387. Wales' oldest independent gallery - specializing in grass roots Welsh art. Open: Fri 10AM-5:30PM, Sat 10AM-4:30PM. Admission free
Mission Gallery, Gloucester Place, Marina. Tel:652016. A small independent gallery located in a converted sea-man's chapel. Open: Mon-Sun 11AM-5PM. Entrance - free.
Exposure Art Gallery [14] (http://www.exposureart.co.uk/), 9 College Street. Tel:641313. A city center gallery established by the Swansea Guild of Artists and sponsored by Air Wales. Open: Mon-Thurs 10AM–5PM, Fri & Sat 11AM–4PM. Admission free.
1940s Swansea Bay [15] (http://www.1940sswanseabay.co.uk/), Elba Crescent, Crymlyn Burrows (off Fabian Way - the main road linking the city center and M4 motorway) Tel:458864, E-mail <mail@1940sswanseabay.co.uk> This small museum invites visitors to experience life in Swansea during the second world war and through the blitz that devastated the city center. Open: March–Oct: 10AM–5PM, Nov–Feb:10AM–4PM (Closed 24-26 December, 1st January and Mondays Oct-March). The museum offers free parking and has a gift shop and cafe.

Parks and scenic sites

The former fishing village of Mumbles (http://www.mumbles.co.uk/), at the western end of Swansea Bay - The quaint streets, a 12th century castle [16] (http://www.castlewales.com/oyster.html), fashionable boutiques and excellent restaurants make this suburb of Swansea a must-see destination. The promenade at Mumbles gives a great view over Swansea Bay.
The entire Gower Peninsula, which was the first area in Britain to be designated an "area of outstanding natural beauty". The scenery is stunning, and extends from sandy beaches, hidden coves and lush country-side. In addition, (including the ruins of Swansea castle) there are seven medieval castles to explore.
The Maritime Quarter- an international award winning bayside development. The swinging masts and sails of the three marinas offer a great backdrop to the theaters, museums, hotels, cafes, bars and restaurants that jostle for positions in this tight little corner off the city center. The south-side faces the sea, where there are great views over Swansea Bay and the Mumbles Head.
Plantasia, Parc Tawe. Tel:474555 - hot house in the city center, complete with three different climate zones and exotic butterflies.
Rhossili Bay and Worm's Head is absolutely breathtaking at sunset, and the vista is widely considered to be one of Europe's most spectacular coastal scenes. An excellent National Trust (http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/)gift shop marks the beginning of the cliff top path, while the picturesque village of Rhossili provides an ideal setting for enjoying cream teas in the summer or for relaxing and taking a contemplative stroll at any time of the year. In addition, the conditions at Rhossili are excellent for handgliding and surfing; historians may also be interested to note that there is evidence of a stone-age settlement here.
Three Cliffs Bay - a great place to take a stroll through woods and watch the wild ponies galloping on the beach. The ruins of Pennard Castle guard the area from a hill to the left (when facing the sea). Note, however that the strong undercurrent at this bay make it unsuitable for swimming. The beach is entered from a path across from Shepard's village store and cafe.
The wide sandy bays of Langland, Caswell and Oxwich are perfect for swimming or just spending a family day on the beach. In addition, the bays are connected by cliff paths so hikers can enjoy spectacular walks throughout the year. At Oxwich there is a small castle and Saxon church.
Singleton Park - This is Swansea's largest park, which meanders over several acres of gentle undulating hills and leads down to Swansea Bay. There are botanical gardens near the Sketty end of the park, while Swansea University occupies land at the lower end, near the sea front. The main entrance to the park is on Mumbles Road, just past the St. Helen's Stadium.
Clyne Gardens and Country Park - this is no doubt the gem in the crown of Swansea parks. Originally a private garden, Clyne is bursting with flora and fauna meticulously collected from across the world. It is has an internationally recognised collection of rhododendrons and azaleas which are at their spectacular best in May. The Chinese style pond, complete with willow trees and oriental bridge is a great place to relax and watch the clouds sail by. Entrance behind the Woodman pub on Mumbles Road at Blackpill.
Cwmdonkin Park, located in the Uplands, this classic Victorian park was a favorite with Dylan Thomas, and several of his works were inspired here.
Brynmill Park, Swansea's oldest park, is also located in Dylan's Uplands and is famous for its large swan lake.
(King) Arthur's Stone [17] (http://members.aol.com/gowersouthwales/Gowers-Castle-Guide.htm) on Cefn Bryn, Gower is a neolithic burial chamber or cromlech dating from 2500BCE. The name derives from a ledgend that the stone was thrown onto Cefn Bryn by the mystical King Arthur.

Do

Water sports

The calm waters of Swansea Bay are ideal for watersports - contact:

Mumbles Yacht Club (http://www.mumblesyachtclub.co.uk//), Southend, Mumbles. Tel:369321.
Mumbles Motor Boat Club, 642 Mumbles Road, Southend, Mumbles. Tel:369646.
Swansea Yacht and Sub Aqua Club (http://www.sysac.org.uk/), South dock, Pumphouse, East Burrows Road, Marina. Tel:469096.

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

Mumbles Sailing Club (http://users.aol.com/sailgower/), Mumbles. Tel:864499.
Rainbow Sailing (http://www.rainbowsailingschool.com/), 14 Cambrian Place, Marina. Tel:467813.
Euphoria Sailing (http://www.euphoriasailing.com/), 34 Eastlands Park, Bishopston. Tel:234502.

The rougher swell of Llangennith make this bay one of the premier surfing spots in the U.K. - contact:

Welsh Surfing Federation Surf School (http://www.wsfsurfschool.co.uk/index.html/), The Barn, The Croft, Llangennith. Tel:386526
Gower Bays Surf Club (http://homepage.ntlworld.com/claire.jones4/gowerbays/), Mumbles. Tel:362192.
Langland Board Riders, 19 Croftfield Crescent, Newton. Tel:386104.

Cruises

The paddle steamer Balmoral runs day trips to Ilfracombe in North Devon, summer only. Tel:01412 218152
Private cruises can be arranged through the Swansea based South Wales Cruising Company (http://www.southwalescruising.com/). Contact:Tel:07850 681003. E-mail:Mike@SouthWalesCruising.com

Swimming

Many of the bays on the Gower Peninsular are great for swimming. However, the most popular are the sandy bays of Langland and Caswell. Both these beaches are under seasonal lifeguard supervision, offer changing and toilet facilities and are in easy reach of the city center.
Serious swimmers will enjoy the waters of the olympic size Welsh National Pool (http://www.walesnationalpoolswansea.co.uk/) located on Sketty Lane, near the university. Tel:513513.
With its wave making machine, hydro-slide, artificial beach and children's paddling area, the swimming pool at Swansea Leisure Center, located in the Marina area, offers a good rainy-day alternative to having fun at the beach. NB: the leisure center is closed until 2007 for refurbishing.

Walking

Swansea is a great place if you are into walking. Here are a few easily accessible routes:

Swansea Marina to Mumbles Pier - about five miles of flat walking - great views over Swansea Bay.
Limeslade Bay to Caswell Bay - about three miles of cliff path walking - stunning scenery.
Bishopston Valley - about three miles of riverside walking, starting just below Bishopston church - a peaceful and lush valley that spills out onto a storm beach. The return journey can be made over the cliff path to the left of the beach when facing the sea.

Cycling

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

The Jersey Marine and Fabian Way Trail traces the main road into the city center from the East - no special sites of interest.
The River Tawe Trail runs along the banks of the river Tawe - it passes through a former industrial area that has been reforested and skirts the city's new state-of-the-art stadium and business district.
The Promenade Trail runs along Swansea Bay foreshore to the sea-side suburb of Mumbles - it passes through the Marina and offers stunning views over Swansea Bay. On a sunny day, with the blue water lapping at the side of the promenade, cycling along this trail must be the nearest thing to poetry in motion.
The Clyne Valley Trail runs through Clyne Country Park to the North Gower coast, where it rejoins the National Celtic Cycle Trail - the first part of the trail passes through a forested area, then it meanders through a sprawling suburb before reaching the Loughor Estuary near Gowerton. This trail leads from the Promenade Trail at Blackpill (a child's paddling area marks the site)

Bikes can be rented at the following city center stores:

Cycle Centre, 10 Wyndham Street. Tel:410710 (closed Sunday)
Action Bike, St. David's Square. Tel:464640 (open seven days and will deliver bike to hotel free of charge)

Driving

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Volunteer

If you are interested in meeting local people and injecting more purpose into your stay in Swansea, join some of the local environmental projects that are arranged through the city's environment center. Check the center's web site (http://www.environmentcentre.org.uk/) or call round (Pier Street, Marina - behind the 5 star Morgan's Hotel on Adelaide Street) for information on activities.

Children's activities

The Swansea Bay Rider is a colorful children's land train that runs throughout the summer along the promenade from Blackpill Lido to Southend Gardens, Mumbles.

Enter the world of Willy Wonka at Swansea's own chocolate factory. There are organized tours, during which the process of turning cocoa into everyone's favorite snack is explained, and samples are available to try. In addition, there is a cafe and a factory shop where souvenirs can be purchased. Reservations are necesssary to guarantee admission: The Chocolate Factory, The Kingsway, Swansea West Industrial Park, Swansea, SA5 4NN. Tel:561617, Fax:561619, E-mail:sales@michton.com, Website: http://www.michton.com

There is a small boating lake and crazy golf course between the junction of Sketty Lane and Mumbles Road and the entrance to Swansea University.

Theater

The Grand Theatre (http://www.swansea.gov.uk/grandtheatre/default.asp/), Singleton Street - Swansea's largest theater, with everything from pantomime to opera. Tel:475715.
The Brangwyn Hall (http://www.swanseafestival.co.uk/), Guildhall complex, Victoria Park - with it's stunning British Empire Panels, originally commissioned for the British House of Lords, this grandious concert hall is the focus for the annual Swansea Festival of Music and The Arts - the second largest such festival in the UK.
The Taliesin Arts Centre (http://www.taliesinartscentre.co.uk/), University Campus, Singleton Park - experimental. Tel:296883.
The Dylan Thomas Theatre (http://www.dylanthomastheatre.org.uk/home/), Maritime Quarter - home to the Swansea Little Theater group. Tel:473238.
The Dylan Thomas Centre, Maritime Quarter - specializing in plays produced by the bard himself. Tel:463980.
Swansea Institute Theatre, Swansea Institute Campus, Townhill Road. This theater is home to Swansea based and internationally acclaimed Volcano Theater Company (http://www.volcanotheatre.co.uk/) Tel:281280

Festivals

Swansea Festival of Music and the Arts (http://www.swanseafestival.co.uk/), an annual (October) three week bash of culture at various locations in Swansea, and the second largest such festival in the UK. 2005: 30th September to 22 October.
Escape into the Park (http://efestivals.co.uk/festivals/escape/), an annual pop and dance extravaganza held late summer at Singleton Park. 2005: 11th June.
The annual Swansea Mas carnival is a colorful celebration of the city's ethnic diversity. Usually the event is held in July, but dates vary (check Swansea tourist office - listing below - for up-to date information ). 2005: 27th August.

Learn

Higher education

Swansea is home to two universities: University of Wales, Swansea (http://www2.swan.ac.uk/), (which has over 10,000 students) and Swansea Institute (http://www.sihe.ac.uk/), which incorporates the city's famous center for stained glass design (http://www.agc.org.uk/).

English (as a second language)

English Study Centre, 19-21 Uplands Crescent, Uplands,Swansea SA2 0NX. Tel:464103

Email: info@escwales.co.uk

Oaklands Educational Travel Services Ltd, 30 Oakland Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4AH.

Tel:539184 Email: Abacusaupairs@aol.com

Buy

Welsh Love Spoons are carved in wood and traditionally given as gifts between lovers. Check out the huge selection at the Love Spoon Gallery (http://www.lovespoons.co.uk/)492 Mumbles Road (near junction with Newton Road), Mumbles.

Woven cloth in traditional Welsh designs. Sold as shawls, skirts and purses, this souvenir is available at most craft shops.

The Sheep Shop, 38-39 Castle Street. Tel:645718. This shop sells stuffed toy sheep of all shapes and sizes, including rubbish bins with sheep faces and large fluffy sheep puppets. The mad looking sheep are a surprisingly irresistible souvenir. The shop also sells stuffed dragons and many other Welsh souvenirs, including love spoons and Welsh woven cloth.

The Quadrant Centre and Oxford Street are the main shopping centers, and host all the usual department and chain stores. Between these two areas lies the much more interesting city market. Although housed in a modern building, Swansea market can trace its history back to medieval times, and is the largest market in Wales. On the edge of the city center is an array of large, utilitarian shopping centers collectively known as Parc Tawe. Within the complex there is also a UCI multiscreen cinema and bowling alley. Parc Fforestfach Shopping Mall is an out-of-town shopping center that houses several huge retail stores, a Borders book shop and a large Starbucks cafe.

High Street (near the junction with College Street) has several stores specializing in backpack and hiking equipment. So, if your tent is springing a leak or your hiking shoes wearing thin, this is the best place to replemish your equipment before heading into the wild Welsh country-side.

Books

New - Waterstones, Oxford Street & University; Borders, Parc Fforestfach Shopping Mall. Second Hand - Dylan's (http://www.dylans.com/), King Edward Road; Dylan Thomas Centre, Marina - good selections of local poetry and history.

Eat

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

Mumbles Road in Mumbles has a wide range of restaurants. Check out Verdi's on Mumbles sea front for great views over a cappuccino. A visit to Swansea, however, is never complete without a Joe's (http://joes-icecream.co.uk/parlours.html/) Italian, award-winning ice-cream - parlours on St. Helen's Road, near the Guildhall, and Mumbles Road, Mumbles.

Try the Swansea speciality breakfast, lava bread - a purée made from seaweed. It is delicious rolled in oatmeal and lightly fried. Request your hotel serve it for breakfast or pick up a can or vacuum pack from Swansea market.

Below is a a very brief list of restaurants and cafes in the city center and Marina area.

  * = budget, ** = mid-range, *** = splurge.   V = vegetarians catered for

American

Chicago Rock, 2-3 St. Mary's Street. Tel:455345 **
Frankie and Benny's, Salubrious Place, Wind Street. Tel:461774 ** V

Austrian

Mozart's, 766 Walter Road. Tel:649984 ** V

Caribbean

Cafe Mambo (cafe and restaurant), 46 Kingsway. Tel:456620 **

Chinese (Cantonese)

Rendevous, St. Davids Square, Princess Way. Tel:467113 ** V
Evergreen Cantonese, 9 St Helens Road. Tel:466787 *
Slow Boat, 12 High Street. Tel:645253 ** V

Indian

Indian Scooner, 18 Anchor Court, Victoria Quay, Marina. Tel:649301 ** V
Nawab Tandoori, 12 Christina Street. Tel:470770 * V
Anarkali Tandoori, 79-80 St. Helens Road. Tel:650549 ** V
Gulshan, 74 St. Helens Road. Tel:456390 * V
Cafe Saffron, 1 Wind Street. Tel:477771 ** V

Indonesian

Garuda, 18 St. Helens Road. Tel:653388. ** V

International

Cafe Continental, 37 Castle Street. Tel:654663 *
Chelsea Cafe, 17 St. Marys Street (off Wind Street). Tel:464068 **
Ice, 64 Wind Street. Tel:646111 **

Italian

Ask, 6 Wind Street. Tel:477070 ** V
La Bussola, 217 Oxford Street. Tel:655780 ** V
La Gigio, 55 St. Helens Road. Tel:467888 ** V
The New Capriccio, 89 St. Helens Road. Tel:648804 ** V

Mediterranean/Spanish

La Braseria, 28 Wind Street. Tel:469683 *** - a favorite with Catherine Zeta-Jones
Paco's, 22A St. Helens Road. Tel:301522 **

Thai

Cinnanmon, 21 High Street. Tel:642880 **

Vegetarian

Govinda's (http://www.govindasvegetarianrestaurant.org/), 8 Cradock Street (off Kingsway). Tel:46869. * V
Bizzy Lizzies Bistro, 55 Walter Road, Uplands. Tel:473379 ** V
Retreat, 2 Humphrey Street (off Walter Road). Tel:457880 * Vegan
Khusi Khana, 36 St Helens Road. Tel:411076, 07711 502146. * V

Welsh/British

Abernethy's. Marriott Hotel, Marina. Tel:642020 ** V
Dylan Thomas Center. Tel:463980 ** V
Beaumont Hotel, 73 Walter Road. Tel:643956 ** V
Atrium Restaurant, Morgan's Hotel, Adelaide Street. Tel:484848 *** V

Below is a very brief list of restaurants and cafes in the Mumbles area.

French

L'amuse, 93 Newton Road. Tel:366006 ***

Indian

The Seaview Tandoori, 728 Mumbles Road. Tel:361991 * V

Italian

Castellamare (cafe and restaurant), Bracelet Bay. Tel:369408 ** V - spectacular sea views
Verdi's (http://verdis-cafe.co.uk/) (cafe and restaurant), Knab Rock, Mumbles ** V - spectacular sea views

Welsh/British

Norton House, Norton Road. Tel:403210 ***
Patrick's, 638 Mumbles Road. Tel: 360199 ***

Drink

The city's main watering hole is on historic Wind Street (appropriately pronounced Wine), which is also the home to many of the city's best restaurants.

The Kingsway is the night club area, and on a Friday or Saturday night the words of Dylan Thomas, although originally referring to death, seem somehow appropriate in describing the mood of the revellers: "Do not go gentle into that good night, Old age should burn and rave at close of day; Rage, rage against the dying of the light."

Below is a list of popular cafes

City center

Eleos Brasserie, 33 The Kingsway, Swansea. Tel:648609
Gershwins Coffee House, 14 Nelson Street. Tel:474000
Java Tading Company, 10 Picton Archade. Tel:458141
Kardomah, 11 Portland Street. Tel:652336 - Dylan Thomas' old haunt
Srudles Coffee Shop, Whitewalls. Tel:650011
Starbucks, Oxford Street, near Market entrance.
The Sub-Cafe, 6 Shoppers Walk Archade. Tel:476334
Also Cafe Mambo - see 'eat' listing, and Morgan's Hotel - see 'sleep' listing.

Mumbles

The Coffee Den, 34/36 Newton Road. Tel:360044
Ocean, 61 Newton Road. Tel:363462
Pavillion Bistro @ Mumbles Pier. Tel:365225
Also Verdis and Castellamare - see 'eat' listing.

Sleep

There is a whole row of B&Bs on the sea-facing Oystermouth Road and also many in the spacious suburb of Uplands. Both locations are near the city center, though lodgings in the Uplands area tend to be of better quality. Mumbles Road in Mumbles also has a wide selection of B&Bs with sea views. The area's only youth hostel is located near the beach in Port Eyon, Gower [18] (http://www.yha.org.uk/hostel/hostelpages/235.html) Tel:391623. There are far too many B&Bs to list all, but here is random selection: 1) Leonardo's Guest House, 380 Oystermouth Road Tel:470163, 2) The Oyster Hotel, 262 Oystermouth Road Tel:654345, 3) Devon View, 394-396 Oystermouth Road Tel:462008, 4) The White House Hotel, 4 Nyanza Terrace, Uplands Tel:473856, 5) Cefn-Bryn Guest House, 6 Uplands Crescent, Uplands Tel:466687, 6) Carlton Hotel, 654-656 Mumbles Road, Mumbles Tel:360450, 7) Shoreline Hotel, 648 Mumbles Road, Mumbles Tel:366233, 8) The Coast House, 708 Mumbles Road, Mumbles Tel:368702, 9) Glenview House, 140 Langland Road, Mumbles Tel:367933, 10) Langland Cove Guest House, 4 Rotherslade Road, Langland, Mumbles Tel:366003.

Budget

Dolphin, Whitewalls, near Quadrant Shopping Mall. Tel:650011 - city center hotel.
Premier Lodge Hotel, Salubrious Place. (off Wind Street). Tel:0870 990 6562 - convenient for city center, marina and for 'Swansea-Cork Ferry.'
Beaumont Hotel, 72 Walter Road. Tel:643956 - small hotel, near city center
Ramada Encore, Fabian Way. Tel:870 4422825 - located off motorway connecting road - car essential. Not convenient for tourists.
Parc-le-Breos House, Penmaen, Gower. Tel:371636 - a converted 19th century farm house in own grounds.

Mid-range

The Grand (http://www.thegrandhotelswansea.co.uk/), High Street, (across from Swansea Railway Station entrance). Tel:605698 - beautifully renovated classic hotel. Convenient for city center and rail travel.
Holiday Inn, Kingsway Circle. Tel:080 4009078 - presently under renovation
Marriot, Marina. Tel:0870 4007282 - convenient for city center. Views over Swansea Bay and marina.
Ramada Jarvis, Phoenix way, Enterprise Zone. Tel:310330 - located in business district. Not suitable for tourists.
Norton House (http://www.nortonhousehotel.co.uk/), Norton Road, Mumbles. Tel:404891 - a converted Georgian manor house.
Stembridge Mill (http://freespace.virgin.net/wendell_p.j/index.htm/), Stembridge Mill, Gower. Tel:391640 - a country-house hotel.

Splurge

Morgan's (http://www.morganshotel.co.uk/), Adelaide Street, Marina. Tel:484848 - five star luxury in listed building. Convenient for city center and marina.
Fairyhill (http://www.fairyhill.net/), Fairyhill, Gower. Tel:390139 - a converted country mansion in own grounds. Need car/taxi. Great for walks and contemplation.
Patrick's with Rooms, 638 Mumbles Road, Mumbles. Tel:360199 - an eight room hotel overlooking Swansea Bay.

Get out

Other places of interest in the Swansea area

Dan-yr-Ogof Caves (http://dan-yr-ogof-showcaves.co.uk/), located in the Swansea Valley (on the A4067 - main Swansea to Brecon Road), these show caves comprise the largest complex of caves in Western Europe. There is also a craft shop and restaurant
Middleton, the National Botanic Garden of Wales (http://gardenofwales.org.uk/), off A48, between Swansea and Carmarthen. For public transport information, call 0870 608 2608.
Brecon Beacons National Park (http://www.breconbeacons.org/) - a short drive from Swansea will take you into this land of lakes, mountain peaks and Celtic mystery.
Half day drive from Swansea: Join M4 at Swansea and take until the end. Follow A483 and then A40 through Llandeilo and the market town of Llandovery. Both towns are very picturesque, though Llandovery is larger and has more places to relax and visit. While in the area, take a detour to the village of Trapp and the spectaular Carreg Cennen Castle [19] (http://www.castlewales.com/carreg.html). Both Trapp and the the castle have handcraft gift shops and cafes. From there, head for Sennybridge - either through the lanes from the castle or return to Llandovery and rejoin the A40. Just past Sennybridge, take a right onto the A4067. Follow this road back to Swansea. This journey passes through some of Wales' most breathtaking pastoral scenes, and takes in quaint villages and towns, mountains, caves, lakes and waterfalls.

Media

The local evening newspaper, The South Wales Evening Post (http://www.thisissouthwales.co.uk/), is available from Monday to Saturday at news stands throughout the city, and is the best publication for finding out about job openings, events or just for keeping up to date on developments in the city.
Swansea Sound (http://www.swanseasound.co.uk/) was one of the first local radio stations to take to the air in the UK. Pop music is a regular feature as well as news, current affairs and discussion programs. Swansea Sound broadcasts at 1170MW.
The Wave (http://www.thewave.co.uk/)- covers similar ground as their sister station, Swansea Sound, and can be picked up at 96.4FM
What's On is monthly information booklet published by the city council listing up-coming events and movie information. The booklet is available free from the main tourist office or from cafes, restaurants and hotels in tourist areas.
Compass offers insight into the mystical and spiritual aspect of Swansea. The bi-monthly booklet is issued free and lists, among other things, local Buddhist groups, tai'chi and yoga classes and reiki and shiatsu practitioners. Compass is available from the main tourist office and from cafes and restaurants, particularly those in the Mumbles and bed-sit area of Uplands.

Contact

Area code

Swansea's area dialling code is 01792. To call from overseas dial: +44 1792 XXXXXX

Internet

City Center: 1 Kingsway (corner of Kingsway and Princess Way) and Swansea Central Library, Alexandra Road.
Uplands: 50 Uplands Crescent.

Tourist information

City center (http://www.visitswanseabay.com/useful_information/article.asp?articleid=5377/): Plymouth Street (Opposite Quadrant Bus Station). Tel:468321 - Winter opening hours: Mon to Sat: 9:30AM-5:30PM. Summer opening hours (Easter - end of September): Mon to Sat: 9:30AM- 5:30PM, Sun:10:00AM-4:00PM. - offers free maps, information on tourist sites and hotel room reservation service.
Mumbles (http://www.mumblestic.co.uk/): The Methodist Church, Mumbles Road. Tel:361302 - Opening hours (year-round):Mon to Sat: 10AM-5PM, Sunday (+ school vacations): 12noon-5PM - offers same services as the main city center office.

External links

Official Tourism Website for Swansea, Mumbles and Gower (http://www.visitswanseabay.com/)
City Sights (http://www.welshwales.co.uk/)
zoom function map of Swansea (http://www.streetmap.co.uk/newmap.srf?x=255000&y=195000&z=5&sv=255000,195000&st=4&ar=N&mapp=newmap.srf&searchp=newsearch.srf/)

Retrieved from "http://wikitravel.org/en/Swansea"

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