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Swansea
Interesting places in Swansea:Swansea (Welsh: Abertawe, "mouth of the Tawe") is a city in Wales and a Welsh County. The city of Swansea is situated on the South Wales coast immediately to the east of the Gower Peninsula and is the second largest city in Wales. It grew to its present importance during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, becoming a centre of heavy industry. However, it did not enjoy the same degree of immigration as Cardiff and the eastern Welsh valleys.
Landmarks
Oystermouth Castle, Mumbles, Swansea
- Swansea Castle . 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, 5 Cwmdonkin Drive, Uplands . Currently under renovation.
- Oystermouth Castle, Mumbles. . The original castle was founded in the early 12th century by William de Londres of Ogmore and was constructed of ringwork and bailey. In the 13th century, the castle was the principle residence of the de Braoses, the lords of Gower (their other main residence was Swansea Castle), and most of the structure remaining today originates from this period. King Edward 1 is recorded to have visited the castle in December 1284. The present day remains are well preserved and the battlements offer commanding views over Swansea Bay. There is a small entry fee.
Swansea Guildhall
- Historical buildings. Much of Swansea city center was destroyed in war time bombing. Still, there are large pockets of the historic center that did survive, and these have painstakingly been restored in recent times. Some of the best examples of Georgian and Victorian architecture can be found on Wind Street (pronounced ), with Salubrious Passage (linking Wind Street with Princess Way) being almost exclusively Georgian - though the accolade for oldest buildings in that area goes to Swansea Castle and the Cross Keys (inn), which are respectively relics of the 13th and 14th centuries. At the bottom end of Wind Street and across the main thoroughfare leading from the M4 into Swansea are several lovely Georgian terraces, with Somerset Place and Cambrian Place perhaps being the most stylish. The Dylan Thomas center on Somerset Place also represents a fine example of Doric style Georgian architecture, and the area (which leads onto the marina) also has an impressive mixture of Victorian and Edwardian buildings, such as the colonnaded neo-classical style Swansea Museum (1841) and Morgan's Hotel (1903). Across town, Alexandra Road offers some fine examples of baroque revival Edwardian architecture, with the Glynn Vivian Art Gallery acting as the focal point. British visitors may immediately recognize some of Swansea's historic streets as they have featured in the popular TV series Dr. Who.
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Museums and Galleries
- the National Waterfront Museum, Maritime Quarter. Tel: 638-950 . 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 's most imaginative exhibition spaces and must-see destinations. Open daily 10AM-5PM. Admission is free.
Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea
- the Dylan Thomas Centre, Somerset Place, Marina. Tel: 463-980 . This spendid example of early 19th century Doric style 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. Open Tues-Sun, 9AM-10PM. Admission free.
- the Glyn Vivian Art Gallery, Alexandra Road. Tel: 516-900 . The gallery housed in a baroque revival Edwardian building 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, Victoria Road, Maritime Quarter. Tel: . 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, Parkmill, Gower. Tel: 371-206 . A rural life museum based around a working water mill - gift shop and cafe on site.
- the Egypt Centre, Swansea University campus (near the Taliesin Art Centre). Tel: 295-960 . One of the UK's best collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts outside London. Open Tues-Sat, 10AM-4PM, entry free.
- Attic Gallery, 140 Cambrian Place, Marina. Tel: . 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: 652-016. A small independent gallery located in a converted sea-man's chapel. Open: Mon-Sun 11AM-5PM. Entrance - free.
- Exposure Art Gallery, 9 College Street. Tel: . 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, Elba Crescent, Crymlyn Burrows (off Fabian Way - the main road linking the city center and M4 motorway) Tel: 458-864, 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. NB: This is definitely a museum in the making, and at present the entrance fee is probably a bit steep. However, for those interested in war memorabilia, it is worth a visit and the owners are very friendly and helpful. 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.
- Mellow Mango, Café Nissé, 11 Wind Street. - a gallery in a cafe. Exhibits focus on the work of local artists.
- Women in Jazz, Queen’s Buildings, Cambrian Place, Maritime Quarter. Tel: 456-666. E-mail: enquiries@womeninjazzswansea.org.uk . A collection of several thousand audio and visual records, photographs, periodicals, paintings, stained glass windows, stage gowns, a library and an oral history collection.
- Mumbles Lifeboat Museum , located on the slip road running off Mumbles Road to Mumbles Pier (near Verdi's Cafe). This small museum is dedicated to the memory of the heroic and sometimes tragic events in the history of the Mumbles Lifeboat. Open Mon-Sat and Sun morning.
- Oriel Ceri Richards Gallery, Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea Univeristy. Tel: 295-526 Taliesin’s Oriel Ceri Richards Gallery not only hosts regular touring exhibitions, but also stocks an excellent range of greetings cards as well as jewellery, ceramics and other craft items. Open Monday to Saturday
Parks and scenic sites
- Mumbles . A former fishing village located at the western end of Swansea Bay - the quaint streets, a 12th century castle , fashionable boutiques and excellent restaurants make this suburb of Swansea a must-see destination. The promenade at Mumbles offers a spectacular panoramic view over Swansea Bay, and Village Lane (behind Patrick's restaurant) is a street of picture postcard fisherman's cottages.
Three Cliffs Bay, Swansea
- The - the first area in Britain to be designated an "area of outstanding natural beauty" - stunning scenery that 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. Home to Oxwich Bay - named the most beautiful beach in the UK and one of the most beautiful in the world by Travel Magazine in 2007 .
- The Maritime Quarter. An international award winning bay-side 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: 474-555 . A chisel shaped hot house in the city center, complete with three different climate zones and exotic butterflies. Open: Tues - Sun 10AM - 5PM (closed Mondays). Admission: £1.20
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- Singleton Park. Swansea's largest park - meandering over several acres of gentle undulating hills and leads down to Swansea Bay - botanical gardens located near the Sketty end of the park, and Swansea University located 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. 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 recognized collection of rhododendrons and azaleas which are at their spectacular best in May. The Japanese 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. A classic Victorian park that was a favorite with Dylan Thomas, and several of his works were inspired here.
- Brynmill Park. Swansea's oldest park, located in Dylan's Uplands - famous for its large swan lake.
- View over the city and Swansea Bay. The best location to gain a panoramic view of the city and the full sweep of Swansea Bay is from Pant-y-Celyn Road in Townhill (near the Townhill Campus of Swansea Institute). There are bay-facing parking areas along the road that allow the stunning views to be enjoyed from the comfort of your car. The scene is especially spectacular at dusk with the sun setting over Mumbles Head. For the adventurous and those possessing cars with strong brakes, return to the city center via the 1 in 3 incline of the cobbled street of Constitution Hill.
Top photos chosen by u all:
A Sense of Balance
Made by Sean Bolton
Please view large From www.swansea-gower.co.uk/beaches/swanseabay.htm A curious feature of the east end of Swansea Bay are the sea-worn stumps of ancient posts. These are remnants from the time when local fishermen set large net traps along this stretch of beach. This practice is believed to have originated in Norman times and continued until the First World War. During the 18th and early 19th centuries these nets prevented this part of Swansea Bay from being accessed for bathing. Today, however, this region fronting the city's new maritime quarter is by far the most popular area of the bay's large stretch of sand. The recent high winds have exposed even more of the stumps as well as these other wooden remains.
Zebra Beach
Made by Sean Bolton
Swansea Bay (and all of the upper reaches of the Bristol Channel) experiences one of the largest tidal ranges in the world with a maximum range of about 10 m en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swansea_Bay When the tide is fully out, a large group of barnacle-encrusted rocks, interesting rock pools and sand patterns is revealed.
Ripples in Time
Made by Sean Bolton
It was a bit stormy in the Bay today. This is an experiment with fill flash, using my 30D's on-board flash. I'm happy with the illumination it provided, but unfortunately it cast a shadow behind the wooden stump. Next time I'll try using my Canon 550EX with the Stofen diffuser to see if that helps. Which do you prefer? Mono or ?
Curvy Bay
Made by Sean Bolton
Back to mono for a bit :) The cranes in the background belong to the Meridian Quays development which is going to be Swansea's tallest building. It will probably ruin Swansea's skyline forever. Ho hum.
Blue
Made by Sean Bolton
Something different from the one or two days of summer we had this year!
SWANSEA 2007
how Swansea has changed over the last few years. Is it still a Pretty Shitty City !!! Music Paul Young Everything must change...Swansea Kingsway
Call of the Wild and Swansea Are Great!
Swansea is a real party town and why they book their activity weekends with Call of the Wild in Wales, UK....Call of the Wild Swansea
Swansea City
A lovely City!...Swansea City Gower Mumbles Lovely Insitute
Allens in Swansea Tasmania
Ed & Connie traveal to Swansea, Tasmania. Our B&B, hike to Wineglass Bay, visit wineries....ednconnie Swansea Tasmania Wineglass Bay
Swansea in the past
These are pictures of Swansea in the past put to music...Pictures
Swansea Cork Ferry
On the way to Cork on the Swansea Cork ferry. Much drink taken and lots of singing....swansea cork ferry singing drinking pallaskenry Scotland the brave
Swansea Today
More pictures put to music of Swansea today...PICTURES
A flight around Gower, Swansea
A flight around Gower, Swansea...Flight Swansea Gower Wales
Soul Survivor with Elim Swansea
various years cleverly put together into a single video. Watch Elim Swansea eventually make it into the Big Top....soul survivor elim swansea momentum
Hiking (Senderismo) con Swansea University
Swansea, un paseo por la costa! The first trip with the Swansea Hiking Society, a walk by the coast and over the cliffs!...swansea
Swansea People Unite (SPU)
know your from Swansea or have lived here or if you dont have any videos just leave a comment! take care all!...swansea people unite ace
Swansea College Mis Cŵl Cymru
Swansea College Mis Cŵl Cymru...Swansea College ILT blog blogs angelo conti cps lams education wales jisc cymru kate pearce
Swansea Parade 2007
A few clips from Swansea's Parade 2007...swansea parade town x-mas kingsway college david rogers ace 87 cloud wales welsh
Firework Display at St Helens Swansea - Part 1
and Cricket ground on Oystermouth Road in Swansea. Fireworks started at 8.30pm and ended at 8.55pm....Swansea Fireworks "November 5th"
Swansea Town Site
Join Flying M Air for a trip to this remote ghost town in west central Arizona...Swansea helicopter Arizona AZ
Speak Swansea Pt 1
A guide on how to speak when in Swansea, UK...Swansea zeta
A Quick guide to the Castles of Swansea and Gower
An introduction to Swansea's and Gower's ancient castles......Gower Swansea Castles Wales
Swansea boys surfing the Basque coast May2007
A few friends and I packed our bags and headed to the Basque coast for a long weekend. This video shows some of the waves we encountered.
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