A weekend in Swansea Bay and the best things to do in Swansea

Today I’d like to share some things to do in Swansea Bay and Mumbles and Gower. This is such a gorgeous place for a weekend break so I’m sharing everything I did during a glamping weekend in Swansea Bay.

You may have noticed that Wales has been having a bit of a moment recently. Wales has always been a perfect place for a weekend break but more and more people are starting to discover the beauty of this gorgeous little country.

I’ll admit that after growing up in North Wales I am a little biased. I’m not technically Welsh so I can’t claim to be patriotic but I do love this country!

I’ve been showcasing lots of different short holidays you can take in Wales such as a treehouse adventure, a weekend by the sea in Aberdaron, staying in a tower in the city walls of Caernarfon, camping in the forest in Beddgelert, combining a city break with Chester and North Wales and many, many more!

Today it’s all about Swansea Bay and the perfect glamping weekend itinerary.

I did this exact itinerary and you can see my video below. Check out how little George is!

Friday afternoon in Swansea Bay

Arrive at your accommodation and explore the nearby area.

When I visited we stayed in a glamping shepherd’s hut which has unfortunately closed down but Three Cliffs Holiday Park looks very similar and offers beautiful bell tents and yurts with sea views. 

 

Here were some of my favourite things to do in Swansea Bay

 

1. Take a walk along Rhossili Bay Beach

Rhossili Bay Beach is regularly voted as one of the best beaches in Wales, the UK and, most recently, in the world according to Suitcase Magazine! So you really can’t visit this part of Wales without visiting Rhossili Bay Beach.

Rhossili Bay Beach is home to 3 miles of gorgeous golden sand which is perfect for walking, flying a kite, sunbathing, building sandcastles, having a picnic or running about with your four-legged friend.

 

2. Dinner at King Arthur Hotel

Head to King Arthur Hotel  for dinner. It’s a traditional country inn with delicious food, a welcoming atmosphere and great beers. It’s relaxed and friendly and the perfect place to go after working up an appetite on the beach.

 

Your weekend in Swansea Bay: What to do in Swansea on your second day

3. Visit Mumbles

Spend your morning in the Victorian seaside village of Mumbles. Take a leisurely stroll along the Prom or browse around the quirky boutiques, surf shops, and art galleries.

Don’t forget to check out the Oyster Gallery for home décor, original art work, jewellery and design led gifts. Then head to the Lovespoon Gallery to find the largest collection of lovespoon designs from Wales’ best lovespoon carvers.

Grab an ice cream from Verdi’s, a family run Café, Ice Cream Parlour and Licensed Restaurant with a reputation for authentic Italian flavour and quality. You’ll find it on the sea front in Mumbles overlooking the beautiful Swansea Bay.

Discover Oystermouth Castle. Sitting majestically on the hill in Mumbles, with stunning views overlooking Swansea Bay. Oystermouth Castle boasts ancient graffiti art from the 14th century and a medieval maze of deep vaults and secret staircases.

There are lots of restaurants and cafes to choose from in and around Mumbles. I always trust TripAdvisor for great recommendations.

 

Sunday in Swansea Bay

5. Walk along the Gower Coastal Path

Take a coastal clifftop walk from Langland to Caswell Bay (part of the Gower Coast Path and of course the Welsh Coast Path).

Langland Bay Beach is family friendly and offers a great range of facilities and holds both Blue Flag and Seaside Awards.

Caswell Bay beach is a great spot for watching the surfers and blowing the cobwebs away. The bay has fantastic views and holds both a Blue Flag and Seaside award.

 

6. Lunch in Wales’ tallest building

Head towards Swansea centre for lunch and try the Grape and Olive. Dine at the top of Wales’ tallest building with 360 degree views across the five mile sweep of Swansea Bay, towards Mumbles.

Before you leave Swansea, walk off your lunch with a leisurely stroll along Swansea Bay promenade and enjoy views across Swansea Bay.

7. Afternoon in Swansea

Spend your final afternoon exploring Swansea. There are so many things to do in Swansea but here are some of our favourites…

The Dylan Thomas Birthplace

Yes, you can visit the birthplace of Swansea’s most famous resident, Dylan Thomas. He’s the most famous poet in Wales, and arguably one of the most famous Welshmen! His first home was restored and opened to the public, either for a tour or to stay the night, by Thomas’ daughter in 2008. It’s now a living museum and visitors can see where Thomas wrote two-thirds of his work!

Guests can have an Edwardian afternoon tea, lunch or dinner at Dylan Thomas’ old house.

Find out more about the Dylan Thomas Birthplace here.

National Waterfront Museum

The National Waterfront Museum will help you learn more about Wales over the past 300 years. The museum’s collections span centuries and tell the story of Wales’ economy in modern-day glass and slate buildings. There’s plenty to explore, from ancient finds including mammoth bones and teeth as well as gold artefacts uncovered on Welsh soil. You’ll find arts dating to the 16th century and plenty of current information to bring you right up to the 21st century!

Swansea Indoor Market

Swansea began as a trading village in 1200 so it makes sense that there’s still a brilliant market. In the 16th century, an elaborate hall was built and is today the largest Welsh market. You’ll find plenty of stalls selling food, locally sourced meats and homemade cheese, artisan breads and cakes, along with colourful artwork and designer jewellery.

This award-winning market is a must-visit to fill up on local treats to take back home with you!

Find out more about Swansea Indoor Market here.

The Swansea Museum

The oldest Welsh museum is the Swansea Museum which opened in 1841. It isn’t the most exciting museum in the world but it’s a good one to have up your sleeve, especially for a free thing to do in Swansea while it’s raining!

The museum offers an assortment of ancient Egyptian mummies and fascinating exhibitions relating to life at the time of World War II. The waterfront area is dominated by ships with dozens of historic vessels including light boats and tugboats, along with an extensive collection of historical documents about transportation.

Take a Stroll in Clyne Gardens

Swansea is famous for its many wonderful parklands and gardens. Clyne Gardens are among the city’s best green spaces. In 1860, this stunning botanical park, originally part of Swansea Castle and now known as the world’s best botanical gardens, is dotted with rhododendron and azalea flowers.

Clyne Gardens is home to around 2,000 plants and includes about 400 different types of rhododendrons. Originally constructed by an old naval architect, it has an elegant gazebo which is a park attraction and is aimed at keeping the eyes open for ships entering Swansea Bay.

Glynn Vivian Art Gallery

Gwynn Vivian Art Gallery is a popular international gallery in Swansea. In 1909 the museum was showcasing the finest modern art in the world. Several exhibitions take place throughout the year as well as lectures and workshops. In 2016, the gallery was completely refurbished with the addition of new teaching rooms and a café.

Massive thanks to Visit Swansea Bay for arranging my trip.