2011 Swansea Bay, Mumbles and Gower Holiday Guide

Swansea Bay. What’s it all about?Seaside or city? Shopping or sailing? Dylan Thomas or CatherineZeta-Jones? Laverbread or Italian ice-cream? Soccer or surfing?Blue Flags or green footprints? Metro or retro?

Truth be told, it’s all of these things. And more, for just over theheadland in one direction there’s gorgeous Gower, Britain’s firstArea of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Go the other way and you’resoon into green, forested valleys famous for their waterfalls andworld-class mountain biking.

Take a look.

01/visitswanseabay.com

02 BaytripperA tour of Swansea Bay fromMumbles to Aberavon

08Green SceneHow to travel with a lighter touch

12Waterworld It’s big. It’s wet. It’s all go

18Life CycleOn forest tracks or smoothseafronts? We’ve got the lot

19TimelineFrom ancient stones to high-techhistory

20Festivals and EventsUnder the stars, in the theatre

21Planning Your VisitWe’re here to help

22MapWho needs sat nav?

24Travel InformationNo hassle, no fuss – it’s plain sailing

26Where to Stay and What to DoHotels and self-catering, seasidestays and city breaks, attractionsand activities


A sneaky look at LanglandOkay, we admit that the GowerPeninsula isn’t technically onthe Bay. But it begins whereMumbles ends and is as mucha part of Swansea as the taste of fresh Gower cockles eatenstraight from the wrapping atour City-Centre market. Goweris described elsewhere in thisguide, but for a sneak previewpop over Mumbles Head tolovely, sunny Langland Bay anddip your sandy toes in the sea.

Mumbles rocksMumbles Head isn’t all rockypromontory. Tucked away on thetip is picture-perfect Bracelet Bay(more sand, more sandcastles,more classic seaside sights). Just around the corner there’s a lighthouse and pier too. Andmore rock – fishy rockpools andsticky Swansea rock. Buy some,along with all kinds of beachparaphernalia, at the Big Applekiosk, a famous local landmark.

Mmmmm… MumblesIt’s where you go to eat Italian ice-cream and scrumptious localseafood, sail a boat and walk theProm, shop at trendy boutiquesand arty galleries. This splash ofthe continent with a dash of theGreat British Seaside attracts afashionable crowd. You mighteven see Catherine Zeta-Jones.She’s a genuine local. Her houseis up on the hill not far fromOystermouth Castle, a medievalfortress that – like some benevolentbut bemused guardian angel –can’t quite believe that Mumbleshas changed so much, but likeswhat it sees.

baytripperWe pack a lot into the 16 miles between Mumbles inthe west and Margam in the east. All is revealed on this trip along the Bay.


Oystermouth CastleWhat a great name for a castle.We have over 600 in Wales, butnot many come with better viewsthan this one. And it looks prettygood itself. This handsomemedieval hunk is being given a£1 million facelift to make it evenmore attractive.

Bike it, walk itThe famous Mumbles Tram usedto trundle along the seafront.Follow in its wheeltracks on thetraffic-free five-mile cycle andfootpath that now runs along theBay. It’s easy riding all the way,on a route that’s green andsandy and flatter than a Dutchtulip field. And even prettier.

Stop off at Singleton and ClyneThey’re just two of our many parks and gardens. And here are just two seasonal snapshots:the exotic plants that flower inSingleton’s Temperate House (even in winter), and Clyne’ssublime springtime carpet of bluebells.

Page 2Main image: Langland BayTop: Mumbles after darkBottom: Cycling along theProm

Page 3Oystermouth Castle, Cockles at Swansea Market


Who do you think you are?We’re all asking that question inthe wake of the popular BBCTV series of the same name.Our Family History Centre inthe Civic Centre helps youcome up with some answers.

City CentreLet’s begin in the coveredmarket, a bazaar of localgoodness that sells everythingfrom welshcakes to Penclawddcockles and laverbread. It sumsup the friendly, welcoming face of warm-hearted Swansea (it’s official – we’re the UK’s

baytripper//continued

second-friendliest city after York).This emporium of tradition andtaste blends well with themodern shopping centre andrestyled Castle Square area.

On the waterfrontIt takes all of five minutes to getfrom the shops to our MaritimeQuarter and snazzy 600-berthmarina. We were one of the firstUK cities to embracesuccessfully the concept ofwaterfront living. It’s an ongoingstory. Swansea’s baysiderenaissance continues at thestylish new SA1 Waterfront.

The LCAlmost immediately after openingits doors in 2008 The LC shot upthe charts to become Wales’snumber-one attraction. Whatgoes on here? Everything fromindoor surfing (a UK first) toindoor climbing at a leisurecentre that scales new heights.

Back to the futureSwansea Museum and theNational Waterfront Museum are very, very, very different – but as a pair make a greatdouble act. The Rough Guideis a fan of historic SwanseaMuseum, calling it ‘enticingly old-fashioned’. The latter, acutting-edge child of today, tells the story of yesterday in a hands-on way that puts you in the driving seat.


Dylan Thomas CentreAfter Shakespeare he’s the mostquoted writer in the Englishlanguage. Find out how DylanThomas played music withwords at this Centre, the largestcollection of Dylan memorabilia in the world.

Beach BoyosDone the shopping? Then headdown to the beach. There’splenty of space. Does five milesof sand sound enough?

Tardis timeWho knows what time that reallyis? Well, Doctor Who, obviously.Prolific screenwriter Russell TDavies, Swansea’s new most-famous son (move over, DylanThomas), gave the kiss of life tothe Doctor. And in the processmade sure that his home city

regularly played cameo rolesduring location filming.

Whined and dinedYes, we know that’s a spellingmistake. But it’s the way youpronounce Wind Street, ourbusiest, buzziest strip of nightlife.Come here for bistros, bars,clubs and a pulsating weekendscene.

Up, up and away‘You’ve got to be a Sherpa’ to live in the Uplands district,said Dylan Thomas. He shouldknow. His house is onCwmdonkin Drive, a street assteep as anything you’ll find inSan Francisco. But the viewsacross the Bay – again, just like San Fran – are suitablyrewarding.

Page 4Swansea Marina

Page 5 Top row left to right:National WaterfrontMuseum, 5 Cwmdonkin Drive,Swansea Maritime Quarter

Bottom row left to right: LC Leisure Complex, Castle Square


A natural oasisAs you drive into Swanseaalong Fabian Way you’recompletely unaware that you’re close to Crymlyn Bog,an amazingly untouched andtranquil natural fenland within a stone’s throw of busy city life.Follow the footpath through this National Nature Reserve,the third largest lowland fen inthe UK.

1940s Swansea BaySee what life was like inwartime Swansea at thisexhibition, which convincingly

want to blow away the cobwebswith a walk along the refurbishedseafront and prom, soaking upthose big bayside views.

Acting upWhat thespian thunderjuice dothey put in the water in theseparts? Three of Britain’s greatestactors hail from within a fewmiles of each other. RichardBurton was born inPontrhydyfen, the former miningvillage that went all Hollywoodwhen the world’s first mega-celebrity couple – Burton andElizabeth Taylor – came to visit.

baytripper//continued

recreates the time of gas masksand bombing raids, ration booksand women ‘dustmen’. GlennMiller is playing – you can evenget ‘In the Mood’ by dressing upin period uniform.

An ‘A’ grade for Aberavonbeach and seafrontAberavon’s sands proudly fly the Blue Flag, Europe’s highestbeach accolade. It’s a case ofquality and quantity – the beachgoes on (and on) for three miles.Aberavon is popular with familiesand all kinds of surfers (wave,wind and kite). Plus those who


Port Talbot, just down the road,earns a double-first. It’s thehome town of Sir AnthonyHopkins and new wunderkindMichael Sheen. Nowadays,Michael has LA’s Santa Monicabeach on his doorstep, but, ashe says, ‘my first love is the sea Igrew up with’.

He hasn’t forgotten his roots.Next Easter, he’s playing Jesus in a three-day-long modern-dress version of Christ’s Passionin Port Talbot, using the town asthe performance space and thelocal community as thesupporting cast.

Abbey RoadNothing to do with the Beatles,but follow the road to NeathAbbey, ‘the fairest in all Wales’(according to the Tudors) thencontinue the abbey habit at

Page 6Top row left to right:Aberavon Promenade, Margam Stones, Michael Sheen

Bottom row left to right: Surfing at Aberavon, Go Ape

Page 7Left to right: NeathAbbey, Margam Park

Margam Abbey, a Cistercianchurch founded in 1147. It’s amere newcomer in comparisonwith what you’ll see next door.Nothing to do with the RollingStones, but Margam StonesMuseum is famous for its ancientstanding stones, many withelaborate Celtic carvings.

Margam Country ParkIt’s very popular and very big –around 400 hectares/1,000 acresof splendid parkland packed withlots to see and do, including an18th-century orangery, Victorianmansion house, narrow-gaugerailway, children’s playground, ‘Go Ape’ high-wire adventure,ornamental gardens and deerherd. Add on a full programme of special events and you’ll seewhy it’s one of our top attractions.


GREEN sceneDon’t worry. We’re not about to fill you full of ‘greenwash’.But it is possible to travel and leave a genuinely lightertouch. Here are a few ideas to get you in the mood.


Park yourselfYou could spend all day in ourparks and gardens. Many peopledo. Swansea is blessed withmasses and masses of greenspaces that sweep down to thesea. There’s colour and interestthroughout the year amongsttheir woodland gardens andhothouses, discovery trails andformal displays. Don’t take ourword for it. No less than five –Clyne Gardens, SingletonBotanical Gardens, Victoria Park,Brynmill Park and Gnoll CountryPark – fly the Green Flag, thehighest accolade for parks andgardens, demonstrating hownature and nurture can work sowell together.

Park your carIt’s easy in this part of the world. Our go-everywhere bus servicegoes… almost everywhere. Ask about our super-convenient Gower services and ‘Walking by Bus’ routes, car-free shortcuts to some of our best short walks.

Ways to goGo wildlife watching on Gower. We could bang on about thenumber of nature and wildlife reserves we have (lots), and the extentof National Trust land and other protected areas. But what you reallywant to know about are the otters and the badgers, the wildflowersand the dolphins, the seabirds and the seals. ‘The highlight is thebirdlife, particularly around Worm’s Head,’ says The Independent.We’d like to put in a good word for the wild ponies – you’ll see themeverywhere on Gower’s high country.

Visit places that get you thinkingAberdulais Falls in the Neath Valley is completely self-sufficient,thanks to Europe’s largest electricity-generating waterwheel. Notonly that – they’ve installed a special fish ladder so that salmon andsea trout can leap upstream. The working watermill at the GowerHeritage Centre is a little older – 12th century to be precise. Green,rural Gower is the theme at this popular countryside centre, whichalso runs ‘wild walks’. Back in busy Swansea City Centre take thekids to Plantasia. You won’t believe your eyes. This glass pyramid is a giant tropical haven of unusual, exotic plants and animals.

Page 8Singleton Park

Page 9Left to right: BotanicalGardens, Singleton Park,walking at Rhossili


Release the inner Ray Mears in youOr perhaps not. But you cancertainly follow in the big man’sboot-tracks and learn survivalskills on a Gower wildernessadventure with Dryad Bushcraft.

If you go down to the woods…Then take your cycling helmet,walking stick or riding hat.Though if you simply want tobring your camera, that’s finetoo. For more details on AfanForest Park, part of Europe’slargest urban forest, see theactivities pages of this guide.

Cut down on those food milesIt comes naturally in this part ofthe world. Mind you, we had ahead start. Swansea Market hasbeen living and breathing thesustainable message all its life.It’s Wales’s largest fresh foodmarket, with seafood from localwaters, lamb from up the hill and bread from heaven. It is, ofcourse, compulsory to buy somelaverbread, that unique Welshconcoction made from puréedGower seaweed. It’s black, it’sgooey, it’s very good for you and it tastes… well, it’s like thatMarmite moment. You either loveit or hate it.

Fresh food, fresh airShop for goodies at one of our many local produce andfarmers’ markets, held atClydach, Llangennith, Mumbles,Penclawdd, Gorseinon, Pennard,Sketty and at Neath’s VictorianMarket.

Then head out west to Rhossili,the ‘best picnic spot in Britain’according to the British Guild ofTravel Writers, for some Rolls-Royce alfresco eating where thesurroundings match the food.

green scene//continued


Taste the differenceYou know where Gowersaltmarsh lamb is coming from.Its distinctively subtle and sweetflavour comes from the ‘seameadows’ on which the lambsgraze. This foodie favourite haswon three gold stars – thehighest prize – in the 2010 GreatTaste Awards, the ‘epicureanequivalent of the Booker prize’.The French can’t get enough ofit. Don’t worry – there’s plenty leftfor local restaurants and bistros.

Local dishes – everything fromfresh seafood to world-classWelsh Black beef – are on themenu everywhere, at Gower’scountry pubs and places alongSwansea Bay – Mumbles is quitethe foodie hotspot!

Page 10Clockwise from top left:Afan Forest Park,Swansea Market, Rhossili Bay, Bushcrafton Gower

Page 11Top left: Fresh from the fields, Bottom: SucculentWelsh beef


waterw

orld


A question for Eskimos: howmany different types of snowdo you have? Answer:anything from seven to 100(depending where you happento end up on Google).

A question for us: how manydifferent types of water do youhave? Answer: 10 (sea, surf,rockpools, rivers, lakes, streams,reservoirs, waterfalls, canals,aquaslides). Make that 12 if you include rain (heavy) and rain (light).

So one way or another there’s a lot of water here.

Gower. Isn’t it just gorgeous?For a start, there are the GowerPeninsula’s 34 miles of coastlineand (around) 50 bays, coves andbeaches, protected every inch of the way as an Area ofOutstanding Natural Beauty.

Chalk and cheese, Jekyll andHyde, James May and JeremyClarkson, south Gower andnorth Gower.Yes, they’re all very different. In Gower’s case, the high curtainof cliffs and sheltered, sandybays in the south are completelyat odds with the low-lying northcoast, where land quietly meltsinto sea amongst misty, moodysaltings, dunes and cockle beds.The beauty of Gower is that it’s easy to enjoy both. Worldsapart, they’re separated by all of five miles.

Little and largeIt’s the same kind of thing whenyou compare east with westGower. Start off snug as a bug ina rug at Bracelet, Limeslade orLangland, three cosy little baysjust beyond Mumbles. Fourteenmiles later you’re in the wild west– Gower’s dramatic ‘land’s end’,where towering cliffs and a vastthree-mile beach fight it out forthe wow factor.

Star qualityNeil Oliver and Nick Crane from Coast, Kate Humble fromSpringwatch andAutumnwatch… you can’t keepthe Beeb away from Gower. It’s the star of many naturalhistory programmes – and quiteright too. In a recent episode ofCoast Neil got all mystical andmythical about his encounterwith Worm’s Head, the seamonster (wurm in Norse meansjust that) off the tip of Rhossili.Actually, it’s a savage headland(and part-time island) swept bythe tide, so don’t get strandedout there like Dylan Thomas did.And we’ve given up countinghow many times Rhossili, the‘supermodel of British beaches’has won ‘best of’ awards (thelatest, since you ask, wasannounced in the Daily Mail).


Where do you find scenic lakes,tranquil waterways and Wales’s largest concentration of waterfalls?They’re all here, within 20 miles of the sea.

Sgw^ d aroundSgw^ d is the Welsh name for waterfall. It crops up a lot in the Vale of Neath,where there are so many that they’vebaptised it ‘Waterfall Country’. For ataster take a walk along the leafy riversidepath from Pontneddfechan to Sgw^ dGwladus. When you get to the falls, whichtumble into an atmospheric, mossy bowl,you’d swear you’re in Hobbit country.

waterworld//continued

Previous pageBurry Holms, Rhossili Bay

Page 14Waterfall Country andGnoll Park Cascades

Page 15Surfers at Llangennith

Melincourt Falls plunges througha tangled forest glade rich inwildlife. The great landscapeartist JMW Turner painted themin 1794. But his most famoussubject was Aberdulais Falls, a fascinating – and highlyunusual – cascade thatcombines great natural beautywith industrial heritage.

At Neath’s Gnoll Country Parkthe waterfalls are man-made –but no less spectacular – thantheir naturally born neighbours.Its fancy, formal French cascades– magnificent water featuresdating from the 1720s – tumblethrough mossy landscapedgrounds.


Don’t forget your toothbrushActually, you can if you want (we have toothbrush shops). If you forget your surfboard, we also have surfboard shops for hiring and buying.

Indoor surfing? Although surfing summers lastlonger (the sea is at its warmestin September and October), the climate’s always spot on at Swansea’s LC (shorthand for our new leisure complex).One of The LC’s many aquaticattractions is the Boardrider,Europe’s first indoor surfingcentre.

waterworldthe wetter the betterSurfing’s in the DNA on Swansea Bay.In 1962 The Beach Boys released theirdebut album Surfin’ Safari, the same yearthat surfing began on Gower. It’s notsurprising that we weren’t far behindCalifornia.

Gower’s west-facing beaches have some of the UK’s best surf.Llangennith has become our very own surf city, where VW campervans (split-screen, of course) congregate and the cool surfing crowd comes to play.

It’s just one of many places – from Langland and Caswell Baysacross to Aberavon – where the waves match the vibes. But don’tthink that we only attract addicts of big Atlantic breaks. This partof Wales is amongst the best places to learn to surf in Britain.


Do you prefer kitesurfing orcanal cruising, windsurfing or beachcombing?

Making more wavesWe don’t just do surfing.Swansea Bay is also awash with canoeing, coasteering,diving, kitesurfing, jetskiing,paddleboarding, powerboating,sailing, waterskiing andwindsurfing.

Breaking news! Wakeboarding, the latest sport to make waves, has come toSwansea. But it’s wakeboardingwith a twist. GoWake at the SA1 waterfront is Wales’s oneand only overhead cablewakeboarding park.

And now for somethingcompletely differentAbsolutely no effort is involved on the Neath and Tennant Canal,where you can glide along on a leisurely 4 mph boat trip.

Catch of the dayCod and whiting, mackerel andsea bass… just some of thefruits of the sea you can pluckfrom our beaches and boats,rocks and headlands. Bream,perch, roach and carp… thatshould keep coarse fishermenhappy for a start. They’re allthere in abundance in our lakes,ponds and reservoirs.

Treat Your Feet• Take your shoes off. Get sand

between your toes. Walk out to the wreck of the Helvetiaon Rhossili beach. You can still touch its barnacled,skeletal ribs at low tide. Orpack a picnic and walk theentire five miles to the dunesand deserted sands atWhiteford, Gower’s mostnortherly beach

• Put your wellies on. Go to thecockle picking shores ofPenclawdd, north Gower’s tidalestuary. It’s all very different tosandy south Gower – you mayeven come back with a cockleor two

waterworld the wetter the better//continued

Page 16Helvetia, Rhossili Bay

Page 17Clockwise from top left:Fresh fish!, Serious fun, Glyncorrwg Ponds,Whitford Lighthouse, Get a different view ofGower, Neath Canal, Winter walks in LliwValley

• Go lakeside. The Lliw Valleylakes, hidden away amongstwoods just north of Swansea,are in a strangely secretlocation. There’s easy walkingaround the lower lake on atranquil waymarked three-milepath. It’s a green experience inmore ways than one. The walkis part of our eco-friendly‘Walking by Bus’ service


• Get to grips with the GowerWay. Well maybe not all in one go. To make the going a bit easier we’ve split thisexhilarating 35-mile walk intothree bite-sized sections – andit’s waymarked all the way

• Follow rivers (and railways).Walk beside the River Afanalong the ghostly route of theold South Wales Mineral Line.Then come back through thewoods of the Afan Forest Park.It’s one of the area’s top 10 walks


What goes around comes around. We’re falling in love with bikes again.

Cycle sales are booming, and many of you seem to beheading our way with all sorts of bikes – everything frombombproof, top-of-the-range mountain bikes to comfyfamily cycles for easy-going bike paths.

WonderwallAfan Forest Park is ranked with Chamonix, California and the Himalayas as one of the world’s top mountainbiking destinations. One of the reasons is The Wall, a sensational snaking singletrack that hairpins down the mountain from way up high to the valley floor. Another is the 29-mile Skyline Trail, a giant of a ride.

Life in the slow laneYou don’t have to be a downhill hero at Afan. There arealso gentle, low-level cycle routes suitable for everyone. In fact, you’ll find laid-back traffic-free cyclepaths anddedicated routes everywhere in this bike-friendly part of Wales.

• Pedal along the promYou just have to do it. Cycle along thebay from Swansea to Mumbles. Havean ice-cream. Then cycle back again

• Cycling with a Celtic cadenceFollow the stretch of the waymarkedCeltic Trail from Aberavon seafront(more fab views across Swansea Bay)to Margam Park (more fab cyclingand scenery tucked away on privateparkland roads)

• Take the Tawe Tour visitswanseabay.com has details of gentle routes suitable for casualcyclists who want to enjoy fresh airand fascinating parts of Swansea Baythey might otherwise miss

Main picture: Afan Forest Park

Life//

CYCLE


Interested in time travel? You don’t have tobe Dr Who (thanks to local boy Russell TDavies, he’s no stranger to these parts). Go back to pre-history then work your wayback to the future. Our story is the story ofmankind.

c.5000 BCParc le Breos Burial Chamber,Parkmill, Gower. Substantialfoundations of a spooky Neolithic(New Stone Age) chamberedtomb

c.2500 BCArthur’s Stone (above). AnotherNeolithic monument on a windyridge high on Gower. But does it have anything to do with KingArthur, who came much later?

AD 74–78 The Romans conquer Wales.Follow in their imperial footstepsby walking the Sarn HelenRoman Road (but please don’ttry it in sandals)

10th centuryThe Great Cross of Cynfelyn,Margam Stones Museum.Admire the craftsmanship on this cross, the finest of a notablecollection of stones carved with elaborate Celtic symbols

10th/11th centuriesSwansea, or Sweyn’s-Ey(‘Sweyn’s Island’) is named by Sweyn Forkbeard (what aname!). So, contrary to popularopinion, the City takes its namefrom a crazy Viking and hasnothing whatsoever to do with swans

12th centuryOystermouth Castle is foundedjust after the Norman Conquest,and improved in later centuries.Along with Weobley Castle, north Gower, it’s a well-preservedmedieval monument

1584Aberdulais Falls, Vale of Neath. A waterwheel (above) providespower for a pioneering copperand tinplate industrial site, yet to this day the Falls retain theirgreat natural beauty

1807The world’s first railway serviceruns along Swansea Bay. Findout more about this – and thefamous Mumbles Tram – at theTramshed Museum

18th/19th centuriesSwansea becomes well knownfor its exquisite pottery. Finecollections can be seen in theGlynn Vivian Art Gallery andSwansea Museum (above)

1810Hafod Copperworks, the crucibleof Swansea’s copper industry,opens. Swansea subsequentlybecomes known as‘Copperopolis’, producing 60% of the world’s supply

1841Swansea Museum opens.Wales’s oldest museum is awonderfully eclectic treasurechest (Egyptian mummy, Welshkitchen – get the picture?)

2005National Waterfront Museumopens, telling the story ofindustry, maritime heritage and innovation in an involving,entertaining way

Now it’s your turnTrace your personal timeline withthe help of our Family HistoryCentre in Swansea’s CivicCentre.

timeline

FESTIVAL AND EVENTS DIARY2011


Swansea Bay Summer Festival Summer fun from May toSeptember.

www.swanseabayfestival.com

So far… we’re always addingmore. For the latest news go tovisitswanseabay.com/events

JanuaryBBC National Orchestra of Walesin the Brangwyn Hall (1st)

FebruaryBBC National Orchestra of Walesin the Brangwyn Hall (4th)St David’s Week (26th-6th Mar)

MarchSt David’s Week continues (to 6th)Richard Burton 10k, Afan Forest Park (27th)

AprilGorseinon Food Festival (16th)Margam Park Easter Family Fun Day (25th)Mumbles Musical Mile Festival(29th-2nd May)

May Clyne in Bloom (1st-31st)Fortress Wales (1st-2nd)Swansea Bay Film Festival (7th-15th)Mumbles Navy Days (28th-30th)Welsh Waterways Festival (28th-30th)Margam Park Family Fun Day(30th)Urdd Eisteddfod (30th-4th Jun)

SeptemberNeath September Fair (14th-17th) Admiral Swansea Bay 10k (25th)Gower Cycling Festival

OctoberSwansea Festival of Music andthe Arts (8th-22nd)Gower Cider Weekend (15th-16th)Dylan Thomas Festival (27th-9th Nov)Neath Food Festival

November‘Sparks in the Dark’ FireworksDisplay (5th)Christmas in Swansea Bay –Parade, Illuminations, ChristmasMarkets and of course…Waterfront Winterland! (from end of Nov)

DecemberChristmas in Swansea Baycontinues! (to early Jan)

Some events are still beingfinalised, but we have givendates where possible.

Main pictureWales National Airshow, 2009

JuneMargam Kite Festival (4th-5th)Gower Walking Festival(4th–19th)Gower Folk Festival (10th-12th)Escape into the Park (11th)South Wales Boat Show(17th–19th)

JulyMargam Festival of Arts andCulture (1st-31st)Aberavon Beach Festival (2nd)Wales National Airshow (9th-10th)Gower Rock Festival (22nd-24th)Breeders Crown Horse HarnessRacing (30th-31st)Gower Festival

AugustBotanics in Bloom (1st-31st)Gower Heritage Centre MedievalFun Day (3rd)Gower Show (7th)Swansea Bay Beer Festival(25th-27th)Margam Park Family Fun Day(29th)

Making plans


The following pages will give youoodles of ideas on where to stayand what to do. Have a browseand take your pick. There’s a lotof choice, so if you’re undecidedor want to fine-tune your plansthen we have the technology!

Visitswanseabay.com Winner of ‘Best Use ofTechnology’ in the Swansea BayTourism Awards 2010!

Packed with up-to-dateinformation, the site helps youplan your visit by bringing youthe latest events, attractions andactivities available in the area.Catch up with the local news,download free maps, visit ourphoto galleries, become a fan onFacebook or follow us on Twitter.You can even win a £100 bytaking part in our web survey! Oh and don’t miss out on ourlatest deals and packages. See you online…

Quick links:visitswanseabay.com/wheretostayvisitswanseabay.com/attractionsvisitswanseabay.com/activities visitswanseabay.com/eventsvisitswanseabay.com/offers

It’s good to talkIf technology isn’t your thing youmay prefer to speak to a friendlyvoice or see a friendly face. So please telephone or call intoour Tourist Information Centre.Our Swansea Bay experts are on hand to help with:

• choosing and booking youraccommodation (both locallyand nationwide)

• advice on how to get here and route planning

• more information on places tovisit, where to eat and localevents

Pop in and take a look at ourwide range of books, maps,walking guides, local souvenirsand gifts. For a full list of itemsfor sale, please contact us or goto visitswanseabay.com

Tourist Information CentrePlymouth StreetSwansea SA1 3QG( 01792 468321* [email protected] all year

Other TICsMumbles( 01792 361302* [email protected] all year

Aberdulais( 01639 636674* aberdulaistic@

nationaltrust.org.ukOpen all year (weekends onlyNovember–March)

Ask for our free visitor guides toAttractions & Activities, Beachesand Walking & Cycling in RuralSwansea. They’re full of detailedinformation on what to see anddo. Please call 01792 468321.Or order your copy fromvisitswanseabay.com/orderform


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Swansea bayMumbles, Gower, Afan and the Vale of Neath

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This map is based on digital photography licensed from NRSC Ltd.© City and County of Swansea 2011

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Travel information

By trainFrequent trains run direct fromLondon Paddington, Bristol,Manchester and Cardiff to theSwansea Bay area. There arealso good connections fromNorth-East, South and South-West England. For travellersarriving by air, there are fastrail/air links to Swansea Bay fromLondon (Gatwick and Heathrow),Bristol and Cardiff InternationalAirports. The scenic Heart ofWales line also runs direct toSwansea.

National Rail enquiries:( 08457 484950www.nationalrail.co.ukHeart of Wales line: www.heart-of-wales.co.uk

By coachExpress coaches run direct to Swansea Bay from CentralLondon, Gatwick and HeathrowAirports; West and SouthYorkshire; the West Midlands and Cardiff.

National Express enquiry line:( 08717 818181www.nationalexpress.com

By carThe M4 motorway brings youdirectly to Swansea Bay fromLondon and the South-East. The M6, M5, M42 and M50 linkthe area with the Midlands andthe North-West, North-East and South-West of England.

By airCardiff International Airport,which has scheduled flights from many major Europeandestinations, is under an hour’sjourney from Swansea Bay.

Cardiff International Airport: ( 01446 711111www.tbicardiffairport.com

By seaFastnet Line Swansea Cork Ferry( 0844 576 8831www.fastnetline.com

In addition, sailings operatebetween Rosslare and Fishguardor Pembroke Dock, both a 90-minute road journey awayfrom Swansea Bay.

Irish Ferries (Pembroke):( 08705 171717www.irishferries.com

Stena Line (Fishguard):( 08705 707070www.stenaline.co.uk

Freedom of Wales Flexi PassThis offers unlimited travel on alltrain and most bus services inWales, plus discountedadmission to many of Wales’stourist attractions andaccommodation at YouthHostels. Freedom of SouthWales Flexi Rover tickets are also available.

( 0845 6061660 (option 5)www.walesflexipass.co.uk

Travelling around Swansea BayHelicopters and personal jetsaside, you’ll probably be travellingto Swansea Bay by car, train orcoach. We can take over fromthere, thanks to our super-convenient local bus services.Coming into Swansea for a day,for example, you can use one ofthree ‘park & ride’ sites to get tothe City. They’re easy to use – andcheaper than City Centre parking.

Our buses will take you almosteverywhere. The walks, waterfallsand hidden wonders in the valleysof Neath Port Talbot are easilyreached by bus. Gower’s splendidbeaches, coastal and countrywalks are just a short ride fromSwansea using Gower Explorer.Try it – it’s one of Britain’s top ruralbus networks. From Swansea,buses will also take you to thebays and beaches of Mumbles.Great value all-day tickets areavailable, one for most of Gowerand the other for Swansea,Mumbles, Neath and Port Talbot.

Traveline Cymru:( 0871 200 2233www.traveline-cymru.info

Arriving by train or coach and needto get around Swansea Bay? Coming by car and want a breakfrom driving while you’re here?Travelling to or around SwanseaBay by public transport; it’s all atwww.baytrans.org.uk

BaytransSwansea Bay, Mumbles, Gower,and Neath Port Talbot

www.baytrans.org.uk�01792 205071


On the following pages you’ll finda great choice of places to stay –from five-star luxury to qualityB&Bs and cosy self-cateringproperties.

How to use ouraccommodation guideFirst of all make a cuppa andhave a browse through theselection on offer. Once you haveshortlisted your favourites, turn tothe accommodation tables onpages 40-43 for moreinformation on facilities andprices. On the facing page youwill find a key to symbols,awards and abbreviations.

PricesServiced accommodation pricesare for bed and breakfast(B&B), per person, per nightbased on two people sharing atwin or double room. Pleasenote that a supplement mayapply for single occupancy.Prices were correct at time ofpublication (December 2010).

Access StatementsAccess information foraccommodation, attractions andactivities is available online atvisitswanseabay.com. But,please check with the operatorbefore your visit to ensure yourspecific requirements can becatered for.

We want you to enjoy yourvisit – so please check andconfirm all details beforebooking or travelling.

A guide to quality assuranceAll accommodation grades in this guide have been based on aset of common quality standardsagreed by Visit Wales, VisitBritain, Visit Scotland and theAA. The star ratings reflect thefacilities and overall quality of the experience.

All the accommodation featuredin this publication has beenquality graded. Star grades mean that you can be sure of standards and choose theaccommodation that’s just right for you.

Visit Wales/AA are the onlychecking agents in Wales,checking out over 5,000 places.Occasionally, it has not been possible to visit theaccommodation prior topublication. In these instances,the property is marked as‘Awaiting Grading’.

The Star Quality GradingSchemes apply to all types of accommodation: serviced(hotels, guest houses, B&B, farm accommodation, hostel/hostel-type accommodation), self-catering cottages andapartments, caravan holidayhomes and touring/campingparks.

Here are the quality ratings:★ Simple, practical, no frills★★ Well presented and

well run★★★ Good level of quality

and comfort★★★★ Very good★★★★★ Excellent

Further information on gradingand awards can be found atwww.wales.gov.uk/tourism or contact Visit Wales, Welsh Assembly Government, Rhodfa Padarn, Llanbadarn Fawr,Aberystwyth, Ceredigion SY23 3UR ( 0845 010 8020, * quality.tourism@

wales.gsi.gov.uk

All gradings and awards werecorrect at time of publication.Grading assessments are on-going and improvements madeby establishments may haveresulted in a revision sincepublication. Please check when booking.

Pets Many accommodation operators welcome pets, but please checkwith the accommodation beforeyou visit. Dogs are welcome onmany beaches, but some haveseasonal dog bans from 1st Mayto 30th September. Contact the Tourist Information Centre (page 21) or go to:visitswanseabay.com/pets

Please mention this SwanseaBay Holiday Guide whenbooking.

Choosing your accommodation


Ensuite rooms

Licensed

Private parking

Totally non-smoking establishment

Short breaks available

TV in rooms

Pets by arrangement

Evening meals available

Tea/coffee in rooms

Indoor pool

Outdoor pool

Children welcome

Lift

Restaurant

Credit cards accepted

Laundry facilities

Meter charge for fuel

Linen provided

Linen for hire

Food/mobile shop

Showers

Electric hook ups

Evening entertainment

Toilets

Children’s playground

Chemical toilet facilities

Gas cylinders

Star Grading Abbreviations

AG Awaiting GradingBB Bed and BreakfastCA CampusF FarmGA Guest AccommodationGH Guest HouseH HotelHC Holiday, and

Camping ParkHTC Holiday, Touring and

Camping ParkRR Restaurant with RoomsSH Small HotelTC Touring and

Camping Park★★★ Visit Wales grading★★★ AA grading

AA grading for caravanparks and campsites

Gold Denotes exceptionalAward standards of hospitality,

comfort and food

Walkers and Cyclists Welcome AwardsProperties that provide amenitiesfor walkers and/or cyclists,including drying facilities for wet clothes and boots, securelockable areas for bikes, storagespace for rucksacks and packedlunches.

Tourism Swansea Bay Many of our operators aremembers of Tourism SwanseaBay, an association that workswith the tourism industry toenhance the visitor experience.

Play safe We want you to have a greattime in Swansea Bay, so makesure that you have the properequipment before you begin and check the tide tables prior to any coastal activity (the tidecan turn very quickly see:visitswanseabay.com/weather).Please do not attempt an activitywithout instruction if you areinexperienced.

Our attraction and activityoperators take play very seriously and as appropriate, are accredited by the followingorganizations:

Quality Assured Visitor AttractionOnly attractions that havebeen assessed by VisitWales, and meet theVAQAS Cymru standard,receive the qualitymarque.

Key to Symbols

Adventure ActivitiesLicensing Authority

British Activity HolidayAssociation

British Horse Society

British Kite SurfingAssociation

British SurfingAssociation

Mountain LeaderTraining Wales

Royal YachtingAssociation

Tourism Quality Services

Wales Trekking and Riding Association

Swansea Serviced

Sw

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iced Beachcomber

Swansea

(01792 651380

£25 - £35

www.beachcomberguesthouse.com

GH´´´ F5

Morgans HotelSwansea

(01792 484848

£37.50 - £125

www.morganshotel.co.uk

H´´´´ F5

(0844 8159081www.ramadajarvis.co.uk/swansea

With easy access from the M4 weare near the city centre and LibertyStadium. A few miles away areSwansea Marina and picturesqueGower beaches. Relax in our indoorheated pool, sauna, or burn somecalories in our Seb Coe gym.

Ramada SwanseaSwansea

£37.50 - £85H´´´ G4

(0871 527 9060www.premierinn.com

At the Premier Inn you can have agood night guaranteed, comfortablebedrooms, friendly service and fabulous location. Serving great foodand drink by people who really care.Rooms available from only £29.Terms and conditions apply.

Premier Inn Swansea

from £36.75 Budget Hotel F5

Hurst DeneUplands, Swansea

(01792 280920

£30 - £45

[email protected]

GH´´´ GH´´´ F4

Swansea Marriott HotelSwansea

(01792 642020

£41 - £61

www.swanseamarriott.co.uk

H´´´´ F5

(0871 527 9212www.premierinn.com

Swansea’s newest and biggest hoteloffers 132 bedrooms overlookingthe SA1 docklands. At Premier Innyou can have a good night guaranteed and relax and enjoy ameal or a drink in our brand newBeefeater Grill restaurant and bar.

Swansea WaterfrontPremier Inn Swansea

£36.95 - £64.90Budget Hotel G4


Acorns Sketty, Swansea

(01792 201345

from £25

www.acornsguesthouse.com

F4GH´´´

For Full Accommodation

Detailssee pages

40 - 41

(01792 207100www.chatcoombe.co.uk

Ideally located for city centre, Maritime Quarter, Mumbles andGower. Minute’s walk to University, Singleton Hospital, National Pool,Sketty Hall. Comfortably furnishedrooms, en-suite facilities available.Extensive breakfast. Finest Welshproduce and a warm, friendly welcome. Free WIFI.

ChatcoombeSketty, Swansea

£35 - £47.50BB´´´´ F5

(01792 657100www.dragon-hotel.co.uk

Located in the heart of Swansea's vibrant city centre, the newly refurbished Dragon Hotel boasts an18m heated swimming pool, fullyequipped gymnasium, award-winning brasserie and air-conditioned bedrooms. Easily accessible by road and rail. An idealbase for tourist attractions.

The Dragon HotelSwansea

£89 - £149H´´´´ F4H´´´´

(01792 473856www.thewhitehousehotel.co.uk

Nominated for ‘Best Hotel’. TheWhite House is famed for superblocal food, great hospitality and boutique style bedrooms you’ll justlove! Situated in the leafy Uplands,the gateway to the Gower Peninsula.Check out the reviews on our website.

The White House Uplands, Swansea

£42 - £45GA´´´´ GA´´´´ F4

(01792 479930www.village-hotels.co.uk

Located on the SA1 Waterfront Development within walking distance of marina and city centre.115 bedrooms, leisure club, 25 metre pool, gym, restaurant, pub, Starbucks, free car parking, aircon, free wifi. Close to Mumblesand Gower Peninsula, ideal forleisure and business.

Village HotelSwansea

£69 - £138H´´´ G4

Swansea UniversityCampus Accommodation

(01792 295632

£31 - £37

www.swansea.ac.uk/conferences

CA´´ -́´´´´ F5

Ibis Swansea HotelSwansea

(01792 638800

£33.45 - £44.45

www.ibishotel.com

Budget Hotel G4

The BayswaterSwansea

(01792 655301

£23 - £28

[email protected]

F5GH´


Sw

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Detailssee pages

40 - 41

Gower Serviced

MumblesServiced

Mu

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iced

Go

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Serv

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The Coast HouseMumbles

(01792 368702

£32 - £40

www.thecoasthouse.co.uk

GH´´´´ F6

Glenview Guest HouseMumbles

(01792 367933

£37.50 - £47.50

www.mumblesglenview.com

GA´´´´ E6

Cafe Valance Bar & RoomsMumbles

(01792 367711

£55 - £67.50

www.cafevalance.com

GA´´´´ E5

(01792 404877www.tidesreachguesthouse.com

Superb sea-facing bedrooms andlounge, guest courtyard garden, elegant surroundings, convenientbus stop opposite, close to university and hospital. Short promenade walk to Mumbles village,shops and restaurants. Safe cycle,golf, walking, watersports storage.Self-catering house available, limitedprivate parking.

Tides Reach Guest HouseMumbles

£30 - £60GA´´´´´ F5

Kings Head InnLlangennith, Gower

(01792 386212

£35- £65

www.kingsheadgower.co.uk

INN´´´´ B5

FairyhillReynoldston, Gower

(01792 390139

£90 - £140

Gold Awardwww.fairyhill.net

RR RR´´´´´ B55́

FairwaysGower

(01792 401080

£30 - £37.50

www.fairwaysweb.com

BB´´´´ E5

Stoney-Forge Guest HouseKnelston, Gower

(01792 390920

£28 - £32

www.stayingower.co.uk

GH´´´´´ B5



Detailssee pages

40 - 41

Go

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iced

Wormshead HotelRhossili, Gower

(01792 390512

£37.50 - £40.50

www.thewormshead.co.uk

SH´´ A5

TallizmandLlanmadoc, Gower

(01792 386373

£33

www.tallizmand.co.uk

GH´´´´ B4

White StileKnelston, Gower

(01792 390922

£25 - £30

[email protected]

BB´´´´ B5Our 23 acres of private grounds include an ancient oak forest, riverand wildflower meadows. Spaciousen-suite accommodation. Easy access to Gower beaches. Holistictherapies, hot tub, sauna available.

Seren RetreatFairwood Common, Gower

(01792 371421

£30 - £40

www.serenretreat.com

BB´´´´ D5

(01792 371636www.parclebreos.co.uk

Victorian hunting lodge set in seventy peaceful acres, surroundedby deciduous woodland. Lovelywalks, scenery/heritage ondoorstep. Lounge, games room,home grown produce and localWelsh wines. Enjoy gardens in summer, log fires in winter. Ridingalso available.

Parc-le-Breos HouseParkmill, Gower

£35 - £40F´´´´ F´´´´ D5

The King Arthur HotelReynoldston, Gower

(01792 390775

£35- £50

www.kingarthurhotel.co.uk

INN´´´ C5

Westwinds B & BFairwood, Gower

(01792 281573

from £35

www.westwindsbandb.co.uk

BB´´´´ E5

HighmeadPort Eynon, Gower

(01792 390300

£33 - £40

www.highmead-gower.co.uk

BB´´´´ B6

(01792 371000 www.maes-yr-haf.com

Maes Yr Haf is fast becoming one of the well known places to visit inthe Gower. It is run by Ben Griffithsand Mark Wicks, who have combined both great food withgreat service to ensure Maes Yr Hafis here to stay.

Maes-Yr-Haf Restaurant withRooms Parkmill, Gower

£70 - £140 D5RR´´´´´ 5́ RR

Little Haven Guest HouseOxwich, Gower

(01792 390940

£35 - £45

www.littlehavenoxwich.co.uk

BB´´´ C6


Afan &The Vale of NeathServiced


Detailssee pages

40 - 41

Afa

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Th

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of

Neath

Serv

iced

(01639 644000www.thebluebellneath.co.uk

Perfectly situated offering exceptional luxury accommodation,superb dining facilities in comfortable surroundings, The Bluebell is the ideal choice for guests looking for something alittle bit special. All 23 rooms havebeen furbished to a high standard offering supreme comfort.

The Bluebell HotelNeath

£35 - £50H´´´ H4

(01639 884949www.aberavonbeachhotel.com

Best Western Hotel of the Year.Modern seafront hotel, oppositesandy beach. Seven miles fromSwansea. Convenient for GowerPeninsula, tourist attractions ofSouth Wales. Restaurant, bar, refurbished bedrooms. Free wi-fi, all weather leisure centre, friendlystaff. Families and pets welcome.

Best Western Aberavon Beach Hotel Neath Port Talbot

£30 - £65H´´´ H´´´ H5

Tree Tops Guest HouseNeath

(01639 812419

£32 - £36

www.treetopsguesthouse.net

GH´´´´ H4

Cwmbach Cottages GuestHouse Cadoxton, Neath

(01639 639825

£58- £68

www.cwmbachcottages.co.uk

GH´´´´ I3

The Barn B & BMargam, Port Talbot

(01656 748644

£35 - £40

www.tyncellarfarm.co.uk

BB´´´´ J6



Detailssee pages

42 - 43

Swansea Self Catering

Sw

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(01792 845040www.cartrefholidays.co.uk

Rural, tranquil, yet minutes from theM4, Swansea and Afan. Overlookingand adjoining the RSPB Reserve, enjoying miles of Mawr countryside.Quality individual properties to suitall, each enjoying secured parkingand private garden areas. The beautiful rural setting combinedwith convenient seaside and city accessibility encourages many gueststo return year after year. Testimonials available. Warm Welsh welcome awaits.

Valley ViewCraigcefnparc, Swansea

£230 - £550 G3AG -´´´´

Swansea Bay Holiday Apartment Swansea

(07971 402613

£445 - £750

www.mumbles-swansea.co.uk

´´´´ F5

(08454 095 044www.aspaceinthecity.co.uk

Situated in 4 central locations wehave something to suit everyone,from views across the bay to theheart of the city centre. Impeccableattention to detail, fully equippedkitchens. LCD TV with DVD, internet, housekeeping. Familieswelcome. Short breaks available.

A Space in the City Serviced Apartments in Swansea

£448 - £889´´´´

Clyne Farm CottagesSwansea

(01792 403333

£300 - £1650

[email protected]

´´ -́´´´´ E5

(01792 885699www.whitespringsfishery.co.uk

Relax at an award winning coarsefishery offering a choice of apartments and log cabins with spectacular views over the lakes,two miles from M4 convenient forGower and West Wales coastline.Touring caravan facilities, pets byarrangement, brochures available.

White SpringsPontarddulais, Swansea

£355 - £715´´´ E2


(01269 592064www.canol-apartments.co.uk

The apartments view, directly overlooking marina. Near beach.Private parking. Superbly appointed.Everything provided. See website.Also flat of character in 17th century farmhouse, amidstbeautiful farm park with fishing.

Victoria QuaySwansea

£200 - £425AG F5

Mumbles Self Catering


Detailssee pages

42 - 43

Mu

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DriftwoodLimeslade, Mumbles

(01792 405471

£140 - £330

www.driftwoodchalet.co.uk

´´´ F6

Mumbles Holiday BungalowLimeslade, Mumbles

(01639 813302

£160 - £340

[email protected]

´´´ F6

(01792 369694www.gowergetaways.co.uk

We offer a large selection of beautiful 4 and 5 star holiday properties throughout Swansea,Mumbles and the Gower Peninsula.Our concierge service can arrange a full itinerary so your holiday startsfrom the moment you arrive. We are passionate about the Gowerand will ensure your holiday is effortless and unforgettable. Call our team for help and advice.

Gower GetawaysSwansea, Mumbles & Gower

£200 - £1500´´´´ -´´´´´

Bridle MewsLimeslade, Mumbles

(0121 246 0254

£180 - £400

www.swanseabaymumblesgower.co.uk

´´´ F6

With the most extensive selection of properties throughout Gower, Mumbles and the Maritime Quarter,let the Home from Home team help you to choose theright holiday property for you and your family. Establishednow for over 38 years we have a wealth of local knowledge and can offer first-hand, honest and reliable information about the area and the properties we

manage. Whether it's a deluxe apartment in SwanseaMarina, a fisherman's cottage in the heart of MumblesVillage, or a beachside family house on the Gower Peninsula, we have something to suit everyone. Visit Wales gradedand verified.

(01792 360624www.homefromhome.com [email protected]

-́´´´´´

Home From HomeSwansea, Mumbles & Gower


£200 - £1890


Detailssee pages

42 - 43

GowerSelf Catering

Go

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(01792 511734www.westernside.co.uk

Family-run accommodation with seaviews on tranquil site overlookingPort Eynon Bay. Award-winningsandy beach within walking distance. Licensed bar serving meals,outdoor heated pool, shop, launderette. Off road parking. Petsby arrangement. Contact Rachel Harrison for details.

Westernside BungalowsHorton, Gower

£190 - £480´´´ C6

Part of 400 year old cottage. 2 annexes with 1 or 2 double bedrooms. Parking for 1 car each.Fitted kitchen, lounge TV/DVD, dining patio area. 5 min to nature reserve & beautiful beach.

Ash CottageOxwich, Gower

(01792 391207

£150 - £500

www.gower-cottages.co.uk

´´´´ C6

(01792 371376www.threecliffsbay.com

Idyllic location near award winningThree Cliffs Bay. Thoughtfully restored barn conversions with exposed beams and stonework.Communal south facing courtyardwith patio furniture. Ideal locationfor coastal and countryside walking.DTV. DVD. Golf, pony trekking andwatersports close by.

Three Cliffs Bay CottagesPenmaen, Gower

£280- £520´´´´ D5Stone-built converted stable in beautiful National Trust area inSouth Gower. Ideal for walkers(Cefn Bryn), beach lovers (Tor Bay)surfers, bird watchers and golfers.Ten miles from Swansea.

The StablePenmaen, Gower

(01792 371459

£230 - £420

www.thestableashtreecottage.talktalk.net

´´´´ D5

Thirty Seven WesternsideHorton, Gower

(01792 401891

£150 - £430

www.visitswanseabay.com/37westernside

´´´ C6

(01792 233599www.gowercoast.com

Chalets situated in the attractiveGower countryside in the Summercliffe Park at Caswell Bay.We have a range of one and twobedroom chalets. Families, walkersand surfers welcome. Dogs are allowed in certain chalets. You mayshop in nearby Mumbles or Swanseacity centre. Short breaks availableout of summer season. You mayemail [email protected] or telephone Sue Morgan.

Caswell Holiday Chalets &Gower Coast Ltd Gower

£170 - £440´ -́´´´ E6

(01792 390228www.bankfarmleisure.co.uk

Fully equipped holiday bungalowssleeping 4-5, within walking distance of beach. Licensed bar serving meals. Grocery shop andlaundrette. Outdoor heated swimming pool with retractable roof. One bungalow has been adapted for disabled use, designatedparking. Tennis court for hire.

Bank Farm Holiday BungalowsHorton, Gower

£150 - £490´´´ C6



Detailssee pages

42 - 43

GowerSelf Catering (continued)

Go

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(01792 390785www.bayholmegower.co.uk

Bayholme Cottage featured in theBBCTV holiday programme boastsVisit Wales' highest grading. Approx200yds from the beach. Accommodating 5/6 people. Alsodetached bungalow on OxwichLeisure Park with 3 star grading. Accommodates 4. Cleanliness is ourpriority. Discount for two people. Sorry no pets. Enquiries: Mr M J Crombie Tel: Oct - Mar 01792 390785

Apr - Sep 01792 390874

Bayholme Cottage & HolidayBungalow Oxwich, Gower

£170 - £690´´ -́´´´´´ C6

Slade BarnSlade, Gower

(01792 391551

£500 - £1200

www.sladebarngower.co.uk

´´´´´ C6


(01792 391306www.thegranarygower.co.uk

Award-winning barn restoration located 5 minutes drive to beaches.Two ensuite bedrooms, vaulted ceilings, wood floors, log stove,patio, large garden with panoramicviews, heated outdoor pool, superblocation. Near to pub and shops.Sleeps 4. Brochure available.

The GranaryReynoldston, Gower

£425 - £895´´´´´ C5

A warm welsh welcome awaits you at our friendly holiday village. Set in spacious grounds, our two and three bedroomed bungalows provide a high standard of accommodation and are ideally located to discover thescenic beauty of Gower. Relax in our heated indoor swimming pool with spa bath and sauna.

For your little ones we have an indoor soft play area and an outdoor adventure playground. We supply free electricity and bed linen. Car parking is beside your bungalow and pets are welcome in selected bungalows.

(01792 390431www.gowerholidayvillage.co.uk [email protected]

Gower Holiday VillageScurlage, Nr. Port Eynon´´´ £251 - £743 B6

Go

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(01249 814923www.34gowerholidayvillage.co.uk

Well equipped two bedroom bungalow, sleeps four. French doorsto grassed area. Electricity and bedlinen included. Free use of indoorswimming pool. Parking. Beautifulbeaches nearby, other facilities onsite. Phone or [email protected]

BethelScurlage, Gower

£220 - £580´´´ B6

(0131 552 [email protected]

Quiet farming village in the heart ofBritain’s first Area of OutstandingNatural Beauty. Sea views. Privategarden. Half mile walks to threesandy beaches and spectacularcoastal scenery. Sleeps three to four.Friday to Friday. Short breaks possible.

Windsor CottageRhossili, Gower

£220 - £560´´´ B6

(01792 386213www.thecrossgower.co.uk

Spacious cottage with two doubleand two twin bedrooms, lounge,kitchen/diner and utility room.Sleeps 8. Double glazing, centralheating, enclosed gardens, garageand off road parking. One mile toRhossili Bay or Broughton Bay.Brochure available or see website.

The CrossLlangennith, Gower

£435 - £860´´´´ B5

(01792 390616www.faircroftgower.co.uk

Breathtaking sea views. Fullyequipped detached house. Large enclosed gardens. Three bedrooms,one ensuite. Sleeps 6. Beautiful sandy beaches, walking, fishing, surfing. Pub, restaurant 500m. Off-road parking. Owner supervised.Visit Wales highest grading. View website for further details.

FaircroftRhossili, Gower

£375 - £950´´´´´ A6

(01792 391175www.pittoncrossfarmhouse.co.uk

Traditional farmhouse. 3 bedrooms,2 lounges, dining room, kitchen,bathroom, shower room. Privateparking. Enclosed garden. Sea views,countryside, coastal walks. Shortdrive or walk to sandy beaches, fishing, surfing. Village pub one mile.Pets welcome. Short breaks available.

Pitton Cross FarmhouseRhossili, Gower

£300 - £1150´´´´ B6

Well furnished spacious self cateringfamily holiday house in quiet seasidevillage. Sleeps 10-12 people. 5 bed-rooms, 2 bathrooms, 3 sitting/studyrooms, large fully equipped kitchen,utility area, garden, parking.

FernbankHorton, Gower

(01865 340005

£750 - £1800

www.fernbankgower.co.uk

´´´ C6

Oldwalls LeisureGower

(01792 391468

£599 - £1190

www.oldwallsleisure.com

´´´´´ C5



Detailssee pages

42 - 43

Afan &The Vale of NeathSelf Catering

Afa

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Th

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of

Neath

Self C

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(01792 864611www.welshholidaycottages.com

Award winning, picturesque, peaceful and cosy - four farm cottages in great location for exploring South Wales’s cities,beaches, mountains. Private woodland walks with views. Woodburning stove. 4-poster bed.Excellent tourist information. FreesatHDTV. Free Wi-Fi. M4 six miles.Ample parking.

Swansea Valley Holiday Cottages Pontardawe, Swansea

£275 - £595´´´ -́´´´´´ H2

(01792 862210www.cilhendrefawrfarmcottages.co.uk

Three cottages on hill farm recentlyconverted from a stone barn to avery high standard. Extensive viewsover Swansea Valley, midway between Gower coast and the Brecon Beacons.

Cilhendre Fawr Farm Cottages Pontardawe, Swansea

£340 - £715´´´´ H2

Cwmshon CottagesPontardawe, Swansea

(01792 865237

£350 - £730

www.cwmshoncottages.co.uk

´´´´´ H2

Cwmbach LodgeCadoxton, Neath

(01639 639825

£280 - £700

www.cwmbachcottages.co.uk

´´´´ I3



Detailssee pages

42 - 43

Caravan &Camping

Cara

van

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(01792 390228www.bankfarmleisure.co.uk

Family run park overlooking Port-Eynon Bay. Within walking distance of the beach. Licensed barserving meals. Grocery shop andlaundrette on site. Outdoor heatedswimming pool with retractableroof. Children's play area, gamesroom, tennis court available to hire.

Bank Farm Leisure ParkHorton, Gower

£17.50 - £30´´´ C6HTC

Greenways Leisure ParkOxwich, Gower

(01792 386676

£12 - £21

www.greenwaysleisure.co.uk

´´´ C6HC

Glyncorrwg Ponds CampsiteGlyncorrwg, Port Talbot

(01639 851900

from £5

www.glyncorrwgponds.com

´´´ J3TC

Open all year. Quiet family run parknear Rhossili, with level pitches andsea views. Over 50’s special offer.Good walking. Pets welcome.Gower Kite Centre.

Pitton Cross Caravan ParkRhossili, Gower

(01792 390593

£9 - £31.50

www.pittoncross.co.uk

´´´ B6TC uuuTC



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Aberavon Beach Hotel Princess Margaret Way, Port Talbot SA12 6QP 01639 884949Bluebell Hotel 14 The Parade, Neath SA11 1RA 01639 644000Cwmbach Cottages Guest House Cwmbach Road, Cadoxton, Neath SA10 8AH 01639 639825The Barn B&B Ty’n Cellar Farm, Water Street, Margam SA13 2PD 01656 748644Tree Tops Guest House 282 Neath Road, Briton Ferry, Neath SA11 2SL 01639 812419

Acorns 176 Gower Road, Sketty, Swansea SA2 9HS 01792 201345Beachcomber 364 Oystermouth Road, Swansea SA1 3UL 01792 651380Hurst Dene 10 Sketty Road, Uplands, Swansea SA2 0LJ 01792 280920Morgans Hotel Somerset Place, Swansea SA1 1RR 01792 484848Premier Inn Salubrious Place, Wind Street, Swansea SA1 1EE 0871 527 9060Ramada Swansea Phoenix Way, Swansea SA7 9EG 0844 8159081Swansea Marriott Hotel Maritime Quarter, Swansea SA1 3SS 01792 642020Swansea Waterfront Premier Inn Langdon Road, Swansea SA1 8PL 0871 527 9212

Bayswater 322 Oystermouth Road, Swansea SA1 3UJ 01792 655301Chatcoombe 20 Rhyd-y-Defaid Drive, Sketty, Swansea SA2 8AH 01792 207100Dragon Hotel The Kingsway, Swansea SA1 5LS 01792 657100Ibis Swansea Hotel Fabian Way, Port Tennant, Swansea SA1 8LD 01792 638800Swansea University Conference Services, Singleton Park, Swansea SA2 8PP 01792 295632Village Hotel Langdon Road, Off Fabian Way, Swansea SA1 8QY 01792 479930White House 4 Nyanza Terrace, Uplands, Swansea SA1 4QQ 01792 473856

Café Valance Bar & Rooms 50 Newton Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BQ 01792 367711Coast House 708 Mumbles Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4EH 01792 368702Glenview Guest House 140 Langland Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4LU 01792 367933Tides Reach Guest House 388 Mumbles Road, Swansea SA3 5TN 01792 404877

Fairways 110 Owls Lodge Lane, Mayals, Swansea SA3 5DP 01792 401080Fairyhill Reynoldston, Gower, Swansea SA3 1BS 01792 390139Kings Head Inn Llangennith, Gower, Swansea SA3 1HX 01792 386212Stoney-Forge Guest House Knelston, Gower, Swansea SA3 1AR 01792 390920

Highmead Overton, Port Eynon, Swansea SA3 1NR 01792 390300King Arthur Hotel Reynoldston, Gower, Swansea SA3 1AD 01792 390775Little Haven Guest House Oxwich, Gower, Swansea SA3 1LS 01792 390940Maes-Yr-Haf Parkmill, Gower, Swansea SA3 2EH 01792 371000Parc-le-Breos House Parkmill, Gower, Swansea SA3 2HA 01792 371636Seren Retreat Bryncoch Farm, Fairwood, Gower, Swansea SA2 7LB 01792 371421Tallizmand Llanmadoc, Gower, Swansea SA3 1DE 01792 386373We stwinds B&B Blackhills Lane, Fairwood, Swansea SA2 7JN 01792 281573White Stile Knelston, Gower, Swansea SA3 1AR 01792 390922Wormshead Hotel Rhossili, Gower, Swansea SA3 1PP 01792 390512

PAGE 28 Swansea ServicedProperty Name Address Telephone

PAGE 29 Swansea Serviced

PAGE 30 Mumbles Serviced

PAGE 30 Gower Serviced

PAGE 31 Gower Serviced

PAGE 32 Afan & The Vale of Neath Serviced


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4´H 1 - 12 119 41 - 61Budget Hotel 1 - 12 132 36.95 - 64.90

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4ÍNN 1 - 12 27 35 - 655´GH 2 - 11 3 28 - 32

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Grading Months Bed- B&B VW´ AA´ Open rooms £pppn


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A Space in the City Serviced Apartments in Swansea 08454 095 044Clyne Farm Cottages Westport Avenue, Mayals, Swansea SA3 5AR 01792 403333Swansea Bay Holiday Apartment Maritime Quarter, Swansea SA1 1UA 07971 402613Valley View Valley View, Craigcefnparc, Swansea SA6 5TE 01792 845040Victoria Quay 54 Victoria Quay, Marina, Swansea SA1 3XG 01269 592064White Springs Pontarddulais, Swansea SA4 8QG 01792 885699

Bridle Mews 16 Bridle Mews, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4JP 0121 246 0254Driftwood 18 Bridle Mews, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4JP 01792 405471Gower Getaways 97 Newton Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BN 01792 369694Home from Home 42 Queens Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4AN 01792 360624Mumbles Holiday Bungalow 12 Langcliffe Park, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4JF 01639 813302

Ash Cottage Oxwich, Gower, Swansea SA3 1LS 01792 391207Bank Farm Holiday Bungalows Horton, Gower, Swansea SA3 1LL 01792 390228Caswell Holiday Chalets Summercliffe Chalet Park, Swansea SA3 3BR 01792 233599The Stable Ash Tree Cottage, Penmaen, Swansea SA3 2HQ 01792 371459Thirty Seven Westernside Westernside Chalet Park, Horton, Swansea SA3 1LQ 01792 401891Three Cliffs Bay Cottages North Hills Farm, Penmaen, Swansea SA3 2HB 01792 371376Westernside Bungalows Horton, Gower, Swansea SA3 1LQ 01792 511734

Bayholme Cottage Oxwich, Gower, Swansea SA3 1LS 01792 390785Gower Holiday Village Scurlage Nr. Port Eynon, Gower, Swansea SA3 1AY 01792 390431Slade Barn Slade, Gower, Swansea SA3 1NA 01792 391551The Granary Hayes Farm House, Reynoldston, Swansea SA3 1HN 01792 391306

Bethel 34 Gower Holiday Village, Scurlage, Swansea SA3 1AY 01249 814923Faircroft Rhossili, Gower, Swansea SA3 1PL 01792 390616Fernbank Fernbank, Horton, Gower, Swansea SA3 1LQ 01865 340005Oldwalls Leisure Oldwalls, Gower, Swansea SA3 1HA 01792 391468Pitton Cross Farmhouse Pitton Cross, Rhossili, Gower, Swansea SA3 1PH 01792 391175The Cross Llangennith, Gower, Swansea SA3 1HU 01792 386213Windsor Cottage Middleton, Rhossili, Gower, Swansea SA3 1PJ 0131 552 5443

Cilhendre Fawr Farm Cottages Wernddu Road, Pontardawe, Swansea SA8 3HY 01792 862210Cwmbach Lodge Cwmbach Road, Cadoxton, Neath SA10 8AH 01639 639825Cwmshon Cottages 8/9 Old Road, Pontardawe, Swansea SA8 4PN 01792 865237Swansea Valley Holiday Cottages Cilybebyll, Pontardawe, Swansea SA8 3JQ 01792 864611

PAGE 35 Gower Self Catering

PAGE 34 Mumbles Self Catering



PAGE 38 Afan & The Vale of Neath Self Catering

PAGE 33 Swansea Self CateringProperty Name Address Telephone

PAGE 39 Caravan & Camping Grading No of Property Name Address Telephone VW´ AAu PitchesBank Farm Leisure Park Horton, Gower, Swansea SA3 1LL 01792 390228 3´HTC 180Glyncorrwg Ponds Campsite Glyncorrwg, Port Talbot SA13 3EA 01639 851900 3´TC 30Greenways Leisure Park Oxwich, Gower, Swansea SA3 1LY 01792 386676 3´HC 200Pitton Cross Caravan Park Rhossili, Gower, Swansea SA3 1PH 01792 390593 3´TC 3uTC 100


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3 - 5´ 3 - 10 2 - 5 170 - 690 33´ 3 - 12 4 - 8 251 - 743 95´ 1 - 12 1 - 6 500 - 1200 15´ 1 - 12 4 425 - 895 1

3´ 3 - 12 4 220 - 580 15´ 1 - 12 6 375 - 950 13´ 1 - 12 10 - 12 750 - 1800 15´ 1 - 12 1 - 24 599 - 1190 54´ 1 - 12 6 300 - 1150 14´ 1 - 12 8 435 - 860 13´ 1 - 12 3 - 4 220 - 560 1

4´ 1 - 12 1 - 18 340 - 715 34´ 1 - 12 2 - 6 280 - 700 35´ 1 - 12 1 - 12 350 - 730 24 - 5´ 1 - 12 1 - 16 275 - 595 4

Grading Months £ per VW´ Open Sleeps week units

Months Tourers TentsOpen3 - 11 17.50 - 30 17.50 - 304 - 10 from 5 from 54 - 10 12 - 211 - 12 16.50- 24.50 9 - 31.50

Attractions &Activities

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[email protected]

Oystermouth CastleNewton Road,Mumbles, Swansea

(01792 468321

The castle will partially re-open inApril 2011 and will feature new visitor facilities and improved access.The conservation works continueuntil 2014 when the castle fully re-opens.

www.swanseawatersports.com

Swansea WatersportsThe Pilot House, Pilot Wharf,Swansea Marina SA1 1UN

(07989 839 878

www.heart-of-wales.co.uk

Heart of Wales (Railway) LineSwansea - Llandrindod Wells -Shrewsbury

(08457 484950We specialise in teaching absolute beginners to surf. Allequipment provided. Individualsand groups welcome. OpenSpring to Autumn. Owned by thegoverning body for surfing inWales, and the only surf schoolbased at Hillend Caravan andCampsite in Llangennith onGower. British Surfing Association approved.

Welsh Surfing FederationSurf SchoolLlangennith, Swansea SA3 1HU

www.wsfsurfschool.co.uk(01792 386426

An exotic rainforest of plants and animals situated in the heart of thecity. From insects, reptiles, fish andmonkeys to banana/pineappleplants, prickly cacti and giant bamboo - this all-weather attraction has it all, including an exciting events programme. Opendaily 10am-5pm (closed Mondays December/January). Admissionfees apply. Coffee shop and giftshop on site.

PlantasiaParc Tawe,Swansea SA1 2AL

www.plantasia.org(01792 474555

Among Britain’s earliest industrialsites, with a spectacular waterfall.Discover how, since 1584, Aberdulais helped put Wales at thenucleus of industrial revolution. Afamily and environmentally friendlyexperience with Europe’s largestgenerating water wheel. A warmwelcome whatever the weather.

Aberdulais FallsNational Trust, Aberdulais Falls,Neath SA10 8EU

www.nationaltrust.org.uk(01639 636674

[email protected]

Morriston Golf Club160 Clasemont Road, Morriston, Swansea SA6 6AJ

(01792 796528

Challenging 18 hole parkland courseclose to M4 and Gower Peninsula.Welcoming clubhouse and 19th holefor apres golf. Resident professionalwith shop and practice facilities. Special rates for visitors.


www.glynnviviangallery.org

Glynn Vivian Art GalleryAlexandra Road,Swansea SA1 5DZ

(01792 516900

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Adventure activities for all ages andabilities such as canyoning, caving,climbing, gorge walking, quads,paintball and clays. Get up closeand personal with the amazingWelsh countryside. Current WelshSmall Business and National Team Building Company of theYear.

Call of The Wild Ltd83 Church Road, Seven Sisters,Neath SA10 9DT

www.callofthewild.co.uk(01639 700388

www.atticgallery.co.uk

Attic Gallery37 Pocketts Wharf, MaritimeQuarter, Swansea SA1 3XL

(01792 653387

Attic Gallery has been showing thebest of Welsh contemporary art since1962. Situated on the eastern edge ofthe Marina, the gallery has an excitingand varied exhibition programme.

Established over a decade ago, SurfGSD is one of the premierBritish Surfing Association approved surf schools. Recentlyfeatured on The Gadget show,Anna Richardson's Supersize versus Superskinny and in the highly acclaimed Coast magazine.SurfGSD is open all year round.From children to adults, beginnersto next-step surfers, all are welcome on our tailored surfcourses.

Surf GSD - Gower SurfSchoolPO Box 83, Swansea SA3 4XX

www.gowersurfing.com(01792 417170

www.gowake.co.uk

Gower Kiteriders/Go WakeSA1 Waterfront, Kings Road,Swansea

(07795 251986

A cultural gem in the heart ofSwansea, the theatre provides anexciting programme of live eventsas well as an eclectic mix of performances and exhibitions in its Arts Wing. For full listings seewebsite or contact box office.

Swansea Grand TheatreSingleton Street,Swansea SA1 3QJ

www.swanseagrand.co.uk(01792 475715

www.npt.gov.uk/margampark

Margam Country ParkMargam,Port Talbot SA13 2TJ

(01639 881635

www.thelovespoongallery.com

The Lovespoon Gallery492, Mumbles Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BX

(01792 360132

[email protected]

National Trust Shop & Visitor Centre - RhossiliRhossili, Gower, SA3 1PR

(01792 390707

Explore a fantastic shop and excitingVisitor Centre, set in the heart oficonic Rhossili Bay, filled with thequality and uniqueness that you canexpect from the National Trust.

The focal point for fans worldwide,the Centre’s home to a permanentDylan Thomas exhibition, and year-round programme of artsevents, including the Dylan ThomasFestival. Explore the books and giftsin the bookshop-café. Talks andtours available on request.

Dylan Thomas CentreSomerset Place,Swansea SA1 1RR

www.dylanthomas.com(01792 463980


www.gowerheritagecentre.co.uk

Gower Heritage CentreMill Buildings, Parkmill,Swansea SA3 2EH

(01792 371206

For more information on what to see and do, places to visit and where to stay in Swansea Bay, Mumbles and Gower

visitswanseabay.com

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www.gowercoastadventures.co.uk

Gower Coast AdventuresGower

(07866 250440

Using a mixture of cutting-edgeinteractive technology, real-lifeartefacts and more, the Museum covers almost every imaginable aspect of Wales' industrial and social history over the past 300 years.Visit us and lose yourself inWales’ newest museum, wherethe technology of today putsthe past at your fingertips.Free entry.

National WaterfrontMuseumMaritime Quarter, Swansea SA1 3RD

www.museumwales.ac.uk(01792 638950

www.1940sswanseabay.co.uk

1940’s Swansea BayBaldwin’s Crescent, Crymlyn Burrows, Swansea SA1 8PT

(01792 458864

Experience the sights and sounds oflife during WWII. 1940’s clothes to try on. Indoor street scene. Funfor all ages! Open all year. Shop,café. Admission charge.

Discover your family historyamongst the archives at SwanseaCivic Centre. Explore our bookshop for gifts and souvenirswith a local flavour. Relax afterwards and enjoy the sea views at the café in the Civic Centre foyer.

www.swansea.gov.uk/westglamorganarchives

(01792 636589

West Glamorgan ArchivesCivic Centre, Oystermouth Road,Swansea SA1 3SN

www.princessroyaltheatre.com

Princess Royal TheatreCivic Centre,Port Talbot SA13 1PJ

(01639 763214

The impressive Princess Royal Theatreis a multi purpose venue and boasts798 seats. Ideal venue for professionaland amateur shows, concerts, musicals, conferences, exhibitions, children’s shows and weddings.

[email protected]

Dylan Thomas Birth House 5 Cwmdonkin Drive ToursUplands, Swansea SA2 0RA

(01792 472555

www.teamforceuk.com

Teamforce Paintball Centre(Teamforce UK Ltd)Llangyfelach Road, Swansea SA5 7PE

(01792 772311


A tree-top adventure based in theheart of Margam Country Park. GoApe is an award winning adventureset 40 feet up in the trees! Swing,crawl and climb your way throughhigh wires, tricky crossings andwind-smattering zip wires.

Go Ape! MargamMargam Country Park, Port Talbot SA13 2TJ

www.goape.co.uk(0845 094 8554

[email protected]

Clyne Farm Riding & ActivityCentre Clyne Farm,Westport Ave, Swansea SA3 5AR

(01792 403333

Swansea has 52 areas of greenspace to complement our coastline.The collections of Singleton ParkBotanical Gardens and Clyne Gardens, as well as the recently renovated Brynmill Park, are amust-see on any tour of the region's gardens and green spaces. All three have been awarded the coveted Green Flag for excellence,and feature special events throughout the year.

City and County ofSwansea ParksSwansea

www.breatheswansea.com(01792 468321

www.afanforestpark.co.uk

Afan Forest Park Visitor CentreCynonville, Port Talbot SA13 3HG

(01639 850564

www.parclebreos.co.uk

Pony TrekkingParc-le-Breos House, Parkmill,Gower, Swansea SA3 2HA

(01792 371636

www.mawrcommunity.org.uk

Lliw Reservoir Caféand FisheryFelindre, Swansea SA5 7NA

(01792 781521

Lower Lliw Reservoir is a beautiful,tranquil place only a few miles fromSwansea. Lovely walks, good fishing, local food and drink in the refurbished café and a friendly welcome.

www.cadw.wales.gov.uk

Oxwich CastleOxwich, Gower,Swansea SA3 1NG

(01792 390359

Discover the bays, beaches andcycle tracks of Swansea andGower. Adults and kids bikes available with trailers, childseats and tag-a-longs. Located in city centre close to seafront, cycle pathand marina.

Action Bikes Cycle Hire5 St David’s SquareSwansea SA1 3LG

[email protected](01792 464640

www.whitespringsfishery.co.uk

White SpringsPontarddulais,Swansea SA4 8QG

(01792 885699

www.dynamicrock.co.uk

Dynamic Rock Adventures Ltd 16-18 Hebron Road, Clydach, Swansea SA6 5EJ

(01792 845655MLTW

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www.breakoutadventure.org.uk

Breakout Adventure26 Woodland Avenue, West Cross, Swansea SA3 5LY

(01792 406023www.dryadbushcraft.co.uk

Dryad BushcraftGower

(01792 547213


The oldest museum in Wales isnow accessible to all visitors. Itgives a feel of Swansea life, pastand present, from the EgyptianMummy to the nearby TramwayCentre and floating exhibits. TheMuseum’s Collection Centre, open Wednesdays, is a short drive away.

Swansea MuseumVictoria Road, Maritime Quarter,Swansea SA1 1SN

www.swansea.gov.uk/swanseamuseum(01792 653763

www.pontardaweartscentre.com

Pontardawe Arts CentreHerbert Street, Pontardawe,Swansea SA8 4ED

(01792 863722

Pontardawe Arts Centre has gained areputation as one of the finest culturalvenues in South Wales. Theatre, dance studio, cinema, meeting roomsand art gallery. There’s something for everyone.

Visit our award winning Museumlocated in the beautiful Afan Valleywhere men once tunnelled for coal.Take a journey back in time andvisit our three dimensional exhibition of a working day in thelife of a miner.

South Wales Miners Museum Afan Forest Park,Cynonville, Port Talbot SA13 3HG

www.southwalesminersmuseum.co.uk(01639 851833

www.dulaisvalley-quads.co.uk

Dulais Valley QuadsNant-y-Cafn Farm, Seven Sisters,Neath SA10 9EU

(01639 701768

www.visitnpt.co.uk

Gnoll Estate Country ParkThe Visitor Centre, Gnoll Estate,Fairyland, Neath SA11 3BS

(01639 635808

www.coynant.btinternet.co.uk

Coynant Farm Park and Fishery Coynant Farm, Felindre, Swansea SA5 7PU

(01269 592064

Three lakes Coarse or Trout. Carpto 28 lb. 200 spectacular acres withfarm, wildlife animals & birds, woodland picnic trails and wideopen spaces. Something to see anddo for everyone.

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Published by the City and County ofSwansea © Copyright 2011.

Standard disclaimers apply and are available from the Tourist InformationCentre on ( 01792 468321.

Front cover: Sailing on Swansea BayBack cover: Three Cliffs, Gower

This Guide is available in alternative formats, please contact the Tourist Information Centre (( 01792 468321) for details.

Image Credits and CopyrightsMain images by Peter Price of A Frame Photography, with additional images by Robert Preddy

The following images are used with the kind permission of:Visit Wales © Crown Copyright: p01 Swansea Marina, p03 cockles, p05 National Waterfront Museum, Promenade, Castle Square, LC, p06 Neath Abbey, p10 Cyclist, Swansea Market, Rhossili Bay, Bushcraft on Gower

5 Cwmdonkin Drive, Mrs A Haden: p05 Dylan Thomas plaque

CADW © Crown Copyright: p06 Margam Stone Cross

Welsh Assembly Government © Crown Copyright: p11 Welsh beef

For FREE copies of up to THREE Holiday Area brochures please tick the appropriate boxes and send to: Visit Wales, Dept J12, PO Box 1, Cardiff CF24 2XN

Area 1 Area 2

Area 3 Area 4

Area 5 Area 6

Area 7 Area 8

Area 10 Area 11

Area 12 Area 13

Name (please print):

Address (please print):

Post Code:

SB

HG

1210

Swansea Bay is one of the 13 Holiday Areas within Wales. Each area has its own distinct charac-ter.

1The Isle of Angleseywww.visitanglesey.co.uk

2Llandudno and Colwyn BayRhyl and Prestatynwww.visitllandudno.org.ukwww.visitrhylandprestatyn.co.uk

3The North Wales Borderlandswww.northwalesborderlands.co.uk

4Snowdonia Mountains and Coast/Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môrwww.visitsnowdonia.info

5Mid Wales and the Brecon Beaconswww.exploremidwales.com

6Ceredigion – Cardigan Bay and the Cambrian Mountainswww.tourism.ceredigion.gov.uk

7Pembrokeshirewww.visitpembrokeshire.com

8Carmarthenshire – Carmarthen Bay www.discovercarmarthenshire.com

10The Valleys – Heart and Soul of Wales www.thevalleys.co.uk

11Cardiff, capital of Waleswww.visitcardiff.com

12The Most Southerly Point in Wales –The Glamorgan Heritage Coast and Countrysidewww.visitthevale.com www.visitbridgend.com

13The Wye Valley and Vale of Usk www.visitwyevalley.com

To order FREE copies of up to THREE Holiday Area brochures see overleaf.

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3

4

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9 10

1112

13

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Documents

2011 Swansea Bay, Mumbles and Gower Holiday Guide