10 Best Things To Do In Swansea, Wales

best things to do in swansea uk
Dianne
Dianne 
Published
| 4 min read

Visiting Swansea for your vacation means you get the perfect combination of city life, coastal relaxation and breathtaking countryside. The beauty of Swansea Bay and the Gower in particular will appeal to all tastes and traveling itineraries. If you’re looking for a family holiday, romantic getaway or a sporty weekend of fun, these 10 of the best things to do in Swansea, UK will help you plan your holiday ahead.

1. Gower Peninsula

Rhossili 06 05
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Neepster used under CC BY-SA 1.0

If you want to imagine what heaven on earth might be like, then you should definitely visit the Gower Peninsula. Boasting some of Britain’s best, unspoiled beaches with their rocky coves and stunning background of the coastline, you won’t help but be inspired. Choose varying walks to discover Gower’s wildlife, history, geology and its outstanding natural beauty. Perfect for days out or taking a holiday in one of the many accommodations in the area.

Gower Peninsula

Address: Swansea, Wales

Website: Gower Peninsula

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2. The Dylan Thomas House

Dylan Thomas plaque
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user John Levin used under CC BY-SA 2.0

The Dylan Thomas House has been fully restored to its former home of 1914 and is a fascinating insight to the Thomas family and life during that era. You don’t have to necessary be a fan of Dylan Thomas to appreciate the hospitality of the owner as you’ll be welcomed with a history tour and a cup of tea, and can even stay the night there if you want. The house itself is a work of art and has been restored with great attention to detail from where the poet’s first inspiration came from.

The Dylan Thomas House

Address: 5 Cwmdonkin Drive | Uplands, Swansea SA2 0RA, Wales

Website: The Dylan Thomas House

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3. Oystermouth Castle

Oystermouth Castle 2013b
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user TeleD used under CC BY-SA 3.0

With stunning views overlooking Swansea Bay, Oystermouth Castle sits grandly on top of a hill and although it has been altered and undergone extensive renovation over the years, it originally dates back to the 12th-century. On your visit you’ll be able to explore parts of the castle that have been hidden away for centuries and learn all about the castle’s vivid history. Different events are held here throughout the year so if you plan ahead, you’ll be able to get the most out of your visit.

Oystermouth Castle

Address: Castle Avenue off Newton Road | Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BA, Wales

Website: Oystermouth Castle

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4. National Waterfront Museum

Posted by Amgueddfa Genedlaethol y Glannau - National Waterfront Museum on Thursday, 3 November 2016

For a great insight into Welsh industries and mines, the National Waterfront Museum is a telling story of innovation in Wales over the last 300 years. Combining interactive technology with traditional displays of transport, materials and networks, it provides an important view of the national history over the last 300 years. Located in an original listed warehouse, its modern counterpart is linked to an ultra-modern slate and glass building.

National Waterfront Museum

Address: Oystermouth Road | Maritime Quarter, Swansea SA1 3RD, Wales

Website: National Waterfront Museum

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5. Swansea Marina

SwanseaMarina
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user SimonMorrison~com... used under CC BY-SA 2.5

Swansea Marina has been completely transformed from its neglected past and is now a hive of local interest amongst the variety of boats, bars, eateries, museums and galleries to be found. Swansea Marina is situated in the award winning Maritime Quarter area of Swansea City which is only a short walk away. On the other side is the sandy beach of Swansea Bay and it is within easy reach of the Gower Peninsula.

Swansea Marina

Address: Tourist Information Centre | Plymouth Street, Swansea SA1 3QG, Wales

Website: Swansea Marina

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6. Three Cliffs Bay

Three Cliffs Bay (July 2012)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Matthias W. used under CC BY-SA 2.0

This huge, pristine beach is part of a spectacular shoreline of sand dunes, salt marsh and the famous 3 limestone cliffs on the eastern side. Renowned for being one of the most beautiful beaches in the area, it also has strong tides and currents. Instead, make the most of the coastal paths and stop off for a picnic en route but be prepared to walk to the get to the beach.

Three Cliffs Bay

Address: Swansea SA3 2EH, Wales

Website: Three Cliffs Bay

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7. Mumbles Pier

MumblesPier
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Wiccasha used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

There’s plenty to do on your visit to Mumbles Pier which has been a traditional seaside destination for more than 100 years. Visit the beaches, go fishing or take a boat trip around the area. Indoor activities include a bowling alley, amusement arcade, shopping or enjoying a bite to eat at one of the cafes.

Mumbles Pier

Address: Old Lifeboat Cottage Mumbles Road, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4EN, Wales

Website: Mumbles Pier

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8. Get your adrenalin pumping with RipNRock

Posted by RipnRock on Tuesday, 18 July 2017

If you fancy learning how to surf, rock climb or abseil on your vacation in Wales, then check out the crew at RipNRock for a combination of great instructors and fantastic scenery. Choose to spend one day or a few days on the beaches of the Gower or in the wildness of the beautiful Neath Valley and get to experience waterfalls and gorges. Adventures are for people of all abilities and each outing is tailor made for you.

RipNRock

Address: 8 Brynymor, Swansea SA4 3PF, Wales

Website: RipNRock

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9. Egypt Center

We had a visit today from the boy King himself Tutankhamun! He was visiting us as part of a school competition for world...

Posted by The Egypt Centre on Saturday, 5 March 2016

A visit to the Egypt Center will keep anyone entertained, no matter what your age. With over 5,000 exhibits from Egypt in the collection, it’s likely you’ll have to come back again to see it all! There’s detailed information on mummification and you can be given a demonstration of the process by knowledgeable volunteers. Everything is well displayed and with a free entry (donations are encouraged), it’s a great way to while away a few hours on your visit to Swansea.

Egypt Center

Address: University of Wales Swansea | Singleton Park, Swansea SA2 8PP, Wales

Website: Egypt Center

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10. The LC Swansea

Make memories that will last a life time with a visit to the LC this weekend - the Waterpark is open from 9am-8pm

Posted by LC Swansea on Friday, 2 June 2017

You won’t be disappointed after spending the day at the The LC Swansea, Wales’ biggest indoor waterpark. In addition to the water fun that can be had here, it also boasts an indoor surf machine, a 4 story interactive play area, an indoor climbing wall, state-of-the-art gym and a multi-purpose sports and exhibition hall, so whatever you’re into, you’ll find it here.

The LC Swansea

Address: Oystermouth Road, Swansea SA1 3ST, Wales

Website: The LC Swansea

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Be surprised by what Swansea has to offer

Whether your kind of holiday includes relaxing on the beach, taking hikes across rugged stretches of coastline or visiting cultural attractions, Swansea might surprise you with what it has to offer. Throw in some fabulous restaurants, vibrant bars and waterside cafes and you’ve got a great holiday ahead with everything you need.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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