Out & About in Swansea

Swansea is situated on the South West coast of Wales. A heavily Industrialised city in the 19th century, the most densely populated parts of Swansea these days, apart from the city centre, are Sketty and Morriston. It is estimated that Swansea has a population in the region of 280,000.

As Swansea is based on the coast of Wales, you would expect some stunning coastlines, and breath-taking scenery - and you would not be disappointed! Amongst the most famous scenery in Swansea is the Gower Peninsula, which was the first noted 'area of outstanding beauty' in the UK. If you were to ask any of the walkers or surfers who frequent the area they would be sure to recommended it, drawing attention to its many caves, coves and cliffs.

Swansea University is a popular place to study, and its doors have seen many high achieving students pass through, notably Richey Edwards and Nicky Wire of the Manic Street Preachers, Liam Dutton, from the BBC and Dwayne Peel, the international Rugby star. Indeed, Swansea itself has been the birth place of many a star, including Catherine Zeta Jones, Keith Allen (daddy, to Lily Allen, and respected actor in his own right...) and the famous poet, Dylan Thomas.

Shopping

One of the most popular places to shop in Swansea city centre is the Quadrant Shopping Centre. The Quadrant Shopping Centre is conveniently located next to Swansea market, where you can find over 1000 stalls selling everything from clothes, confectionery, cards or gifts. On Swansea's Oxford Street you will find many popular retailers, such as TK MAXX, Marks and Spencer's, Monsoon and Top Shop.

The city centre is a vibrant place often frequented with buskers and street entertainers. For ease of access you will find multi-story car parks, the Quadrant Street Bus Station and, in Lower Oxford Street, a no car zone!

Food and Drink

If you want food that is fit for Hollywood royalty, then try Patrick's and Gallini's, frequented by Catherine Zeta Jones, and husband Michael Douglas whenever they are in town! For an Indian with a difference, try the Miah's Tandoor, a restaurant in a converted Victorian church! Or try Morgans Hotel for a more traditional 5 star meal.

Amongst Swanseas hottest bars and clubs are, Play, in Salubrious Place, Oceana, on Kingsway, and Revolution, on Wind Street. For bars that serve a fantastic pint be sure to check out, Walkabout on Castle Street, Lloyds Bar on Wind Street, and Morgans Bar, on Somerset Place.

Arts & Entertainment

Swansea is home to the Dylan Thomas Theatre. The Dylan Thomas Theatre encompasses two theatre companies in Swansea who frequently put on productions and shows. These are the Children's Dylan Tomas Theatre Company and the Swansea Little Theatre Company. The Dylan Thomas Theatre frequently hosts seminars, conferences and craft fairs.

At the Swansea Heritage Museum you will find Art Exhibitions, Historical Exhibitions and photographic exhibitions.

At the Swansea Marina you may even be lucky enough to catch a floating art exhibition! With the Royal Navy ship, HMS Exploit, having previously been an attraction!

The National Waterfront Museum is also a popular attraction in Swansea. The National Waterfront Museum collections include geology, Biodiversity, Archaeology and Art.

Popular Cinemas in Swansea include Eon Swansea, located Parc Tawe, and Swansea Vue, located on York Street.

Hotels and Travel

There are many fantastic Hotels situated in Swansea. One of the most popular is Morgans Hotel, based on Somerset Place. This stunning 4* Hotel is a Grade II listed building. Morgans Hotel is situated in the city centre and has a 20 room capacity.

The Dragon Hotel is also located in the city centre and is also a 4* Hotel. With a 106 room capacity, the Dragon Hotel is a bustling high class hotel which encompasses an indoor pool, full gym, concierge service, Piano Bar and restaurant, and even Panoramic views of the City Centre.

Other popular places to stay in Swansea include, The Grand Hotel on High Street, the Knabrock Hotel on Mumbles Road, Ramada Jarvis on Phoenix Way, the Express Holiday Inn on Neath Road and Marriott Hotel on Maritime Quarter.

Swansea is accessible by car, train, rail, bus, coach sea and air. Travelling by car, you should take the M4, M6, M5, M50 or M42. Traveline Cymru can provide details of National Express coaches which are destined for Swansea, and local bus and coach services. First Great Western Train Services travel from Swansea to Paddington, London in around 3 hours! By air you should travel to Cardiff International Airport. However, Swansea does have its own small aircraft airport. Ferries run from Pembroke Dock and Rosslare, and are run by either Stena Sea link, or Irish Ferries.