During medieval times, Swansea was a prosperous market town, later gaining a certain prominence as a spa resort. It was during the industrial revolution, however, that the city flourished and its population grew. The city is home to the world's first passenger railway service known as the Mumbles Train, which bumped and bounced along five miles of Swansea foreshore, linking the city centre with the suburb of Mumbles. Much of the city centre's architectural heritage was lost through wartime bombing. However, the abundance of parks, stunning coastal scenery, lovely water-side suburbs, a magnificent bay-side maritime quarter, varied cultural events, medieval castles and golden sandy beaches have preserved Swansea's place as a major tourist destination. Furthermore, according to a survey conducted by an international health magazine that considered, among other factors, a city's crime rate, life-style, environment, etc., Swansea was judged to be the most relaxed city in the UK, while two national surveys have ranked the city as the third friendliest place in the country with regard to customer service and the safest urban area in the UK.

The name 'Swansea' is derived from 'Sweyn's ey,' which meant the island belonging to Sweyn (Sven) in Old Norse, the area having been settled by Scandinavians in the Middle Ages.Abertawe, by contrast, means 'mouth of the river Tawe'. Locals are known asSwansea Jacks, after a hero dog who rescued no fewer than 27 people from drowning during his seven-year life in the 1930s; Jack's memorial is on the promenade in Brynmill, close to the university.

Dylan Thomas was passionate about Swansea, and in his early days described it as an "ugly, lovely town, crawling, sprawling, slummed, unplanned, jerry-villa'd, and smug-suburbed by the side of a long and splendid curving shore." Later, he referred to it as "the most romantic town I know," and described it with great gusto as a "marble town, city of laughter, little Dublin" and screamed triumphantly "Never was there such a town!"

Incidentally, the Swansea seaside resort ofMumbles derives its name from the French wordmamelles, meaning "breasts"; take a look at the two islets off Mumbles Head from across the bay, and it is easy to see why.

Swansea has a wet and mild climate, with winter temperatures ranging from around 4 to 6°C, while the summer average high is about 20°C but often reaching to 26 or 27°C. Sun lovers should visit Swansea from June to August, which is the period that records the most hours of sunshine and is the main tourist season. However, those who prefer long solitary walks along cliffs paths or contemplative strolls through wooded valleys should consider September and October. During these months, the air is crisp and fresh and the area quiet, with most tourists having already departed. However, as Wales is one of the wettest areas in the UK, you should always prepare for rain when visiting the region. Even in the summer, pack some rain gear and an umbrella in your luggage.

• City centre tourist information,Plymouth Street(opposite the Bus Station),☏+44 1792 468321.Oct—Easter: M-Sa 9:30AM-5:30PM; Easter—Sep: M-Sa 9:30AM-5:30PM, Su 10AM-4PM.Offers free maps, information on tourist sites and hotel room reservation service. 
• Mumbles tourist information,The Methodist Church, Mumbles Road,☏+ 44 1792 361302.M-Sa 10AM-5PM, Sunday (and school vacations) noon-5PM.Offers same services as the main city centre office. 

• The M4 motorway links the city toCardiff andLondon, with connections to the M6, M5, M32, M42 and M50. The main junction for Swansea is 42, but 43, 44, 45, 46 and 47 also lead off into Swansea

• National Express,☏+44 990 80 80 80 (enquires).Runs frequent bus services fromCardiff,London, the Midlands, and Heathrow Airport. All buses depart and arrive at the city's bus station. The National Express ticket office is next to the bus station. 
• Megabus.A cheaper option. 
• A convenient way to spend the day in Swansea city centre is to use one of the threePark and Ride systemsNational Park and Ride Directory. One is based at Landore on the A4067; leave M4 at junction 45. The eastern 'Park and Ride' operates off the A483 (Fabian Way), which is the main artery into Swansea when coming off the M4 (junction 42) from the east buses on this route follow an express bus lane into the city centre. The western 'Park and Ride' operates off the A483 (Carmarthen Road) in Fforestfach. There is a £1.50 charge per car that includes all-day parking and return bus travel for up to 4 passengers, and the system operates from Monday to Saturday from 6:45AM to 7:30PM.

• Heathrow Airport (LHR ^IATA) has daily arrivals from the widest number of places around the world to the UK. By rail, take the RailAir coach service from Heathrow Central Bus station and change at Reading Railway Station for trains direct to Swansea. By Coach, National Express provide a coach service from Heathrow Central Bus station to Swansea.
• Cardiff Airport (CWL ^IATA), approximately 50 minutes drive to Swanesa. There are arrivals from various places in Europe. By rail, take the train from Rhoose Cardiff International Airport Railway station and change at Bridgend.
• 51.605278-4.0677781Swansea Airport(SWS ^IATA)(in the Gower Peninsula),☏+44 1792 20755.Handles private aircraft only. 
• 51.713889-4.3122222Pembrey Airport.17 mi (27 km) to the west nearBurry Port, handles private aircraft and offers charter flights from destinations in UK and Europe.(updated Jun 2022)

51.6253-3.94093Swansea railway station.(updated Jun 2022)

• Great Western Railway (+44 345 748 4950 (national rail enquiries)) offers a very frequent express service fromLondon Paddington station which stops atReading,Swindon,Bristol Parkway,Newport,Cardiff Central,Bridgend,Port Talbot Parkway andNeath.
• Transport for Wales runs local trains throughout Wales including the West Wales lines with services toPembroke,Milford Haven andFishguard.
• West Wales services, west of Swansea. After leaving Swansea, the train follows the contours of the coast. A left-side seat will give you the best view:
  • The famousHeart of Wales Line runs between the medieval town ofShrewsbury and Swansea, passing through some of Wales' most spectacular scenery and picturesque towns during its 3 hr 40 min journey. Trains depart Swansea at 4:36AM, 9:15AM, 1:17PM and 6:21PM.
  • There are direct trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Swansea operating hourly during the daytime M-Sa, and every two hours during the daytime on Sundays. The journey time is about 4 hours 20 minutes. This service calls at Crewe, Shrewsbury, Hereford, Newport and Cardiff.

• Swansea Marina.It offers 750 berths for private boat mooring, offering comprehensive facilities for both short and long term stays. 

• National Cycle Route 4.Swansea is served by the NCR 4 which passes just south of the city centre. To the east, NCR 4 connects Swansea with Port Talbot, Newport and London. To the west, NCR 4 connects Swansea with Llanelli and St David's. From the east, NCR 4 follows the route of the A483 (Fabian Way), it then follows the route of the seafront promenade of Swansea Bay Beach and at Blackpill it continues up the Clyne Valley cycle track towards Gowerton. 
• National Cycle Route 43.NCR 43 is still under development and will eventually connect Swansea withBuilth Wells. Part of the route wholly within Swansea has been completed and signposted. The completed signposted section of NCR 43 begins at the Swansea Marina and follows the route of the River Tawe all the way to Ystalyfera, passing Pontardawe. 
• National Cycle Route 47.NCR47 connects Newport with Fishguard. Within Swansea, NCR47 follows the same route as NCR4. Whilst NCR4 is a more coastal route, NCR47 is a mostly inland route. 

Bus companyFirst Cymru^{[dead link]} maintain frequent services connecting all suburbs of Swansea and the Gower Peninsula. All buses depart from the bus station, and there are connecting links to/from Swansea's railway station. Visitors travelling to the Mumbles have the option of taking buses heading to these final destinations: Oystermouth (synonymous with Mumbles and the final stop is in the village), Limeslade (includes stops at Mumbles Square, Verdi's Cafe and Mumbles Pier), Langland, Newton and Caswell. All buses on these routes also make stops at St. Helen's Stadium, Swansea University/Singleton Park and Blackpill Lido.

First Cymru offer a one-day "FirstDay^{[dead link]}" bus pass for the Swansea urban area. It costs £4.00 per adult before 9:30AM and £3.50 after 9:30AM.

There are several taxi ranks in the city centre. One is found at High Street Station for rail connections and one is at Swansea Bus Station for bus/coach connections. A taxi rank beside St. Mary's church serves city centre shoppers. The taxi rank on Caer Street next to Castle Square is the most convenient for people returning home after a night out on Wind Street.

• 51.6203-3.94121Swansea Castle.The ruins of this 13th-century castle are in the city centre. 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 centre. The building is floodlit at night. 
• 51.614167-3.9602782The Guildhall.This elegant building of white Portland stone has graced the city centre'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 (painted for the House of Lords, but considered too frivolous) that grace the interior of theBrangwyn Hall are definitely worth viewing. The Brangwyn Hall is on the sea-facing side of the building and functions as the city's main concert and reception hall. 
• 51.594076-4.1796033Arthur's Stone(Cefn Bryn,Gower).A neolithic burial chamber or cromlech dating from 2500BCE. 
• 51.6203-3.96554Dylan Thomas' Childhood Home,5 Cwmdonkin Dr.Uplands. Restored to reflect the environment of Dylan's youth, Number Five Cwmdonkin Drive is open as a self-catering guest house, and is suitable for budding writers. 
• 51.57645-4.002975Oystermouth Castle.Mumbles. The 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 principal 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 I 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. 

• 51.569722-3.9802786Mumbles Pier.Mumbles. Built in the 1880s to encourage more passengers to use the Mumbles Train, the pier is an edifice to the Victorians' love of the ocean. Compared to many piers around the country, Mumbles is quite simple in design, but the 255-m walk from beginning to end allows for spectacular views over Swansea Bay. In particular, Oystermouth Castle and the high rise buildings of the city centre are in clear view. 
• Historical buildings. Much of Swansea city centre was destroyed in wartime bombing. Still, there are large pockets of the historic centre that survived, and they have been painstakingly restored. Some of the best examples of Georgian and Victorian architecture can be found on Wind Street (pronouncedWined), 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 Centre 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 been featured in the popular TV seriesDoctor Who.

• 51.616389-3.9386117National Waterfront Museum,The, Maritime Quarter,☏+44 1792 638950.Daily 10AM-5PM.Housed in a 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 UK's most imaginative exhibition spaces and must-see destinations.Admission is free. 
• 51.619167-3.9358338^{[dead link]}Dylan Thomas Centre,The, Somerset Place, Marina,☏+44 1792 463980.Tu-Su 9AM-10PM.This splendid example of early 19th-century Doric style architecture served as Swansea Guildhall for over 100 years. It became the Dylan Thomas Centre 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 centre is dedicated to the works of Swansea's greatest literary son, and in addition to a theatre, exhibition and events hall, the centre also has a second hand book store and gift shop. The local cuisine served in the second floor restaurant is strongly recommended.Admission free. 
• 51.623889-3.9444449Glyn Vivian Art Gallery,The Alexandra Rd,☏+44 1792 516900.Tu-Su 9AM-5PM.The gallery housed in a baroque revival Edwardian building has permanent exhibits of paintings by local artists and a good collection of Swansea china. It frequently hosts exhibitions of national and international works of art.Free. 
• 51.6178-3.938110Swansea Museum,Victoria Road, Maritime Quarter,☏+44 1792 653763.Tu-Su 9AM-5PM.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.Free. 
• 51.5835-4.103511Gower Heritage Centre,Parkmill, Gower,☏+44 1792 371206.A rural life museum based around a working water mill. Gift shop and café on site. 
• 51.61015-3.9788112Egypt Centre,Singleton Park, SA2 8PP,☏+44 1792 295960.Tu-Sa 10AM-4PM.The Swansea University campus (near the Taliesin Art Centre). One of the UK's best collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts outside London.Free. 
• 51.61753-3.9335413Attic Gallery,37 Pocketts Wharf, Maritime Quarter, SA1 3XL,☏+44 1792 653387,sales@atticgallery.co.uk.F 10AM-5:30PM, Sa 10AM-4:30PM.Wales' oldest independent gallery, specialising in grass roots Welsh art.free. 
• 51.617-3.936814Mission Gallery,Gloucester Place, Marina,☏+44 1792 652016.Daily 11AM-5PM.A small independent gallery in a converted seaman's chapel.free. 
• 51.62068-3.88019151940s Swansea Bay,Elba Crescent, Crymlyn Burrows, SA1 8QQ,☏+44 1792 458864,mail@1940sswanseabay.co.uk.Temporarily closed during a search for new premises.(updated Apr 2022)
• 51.6215-3.942716Elysium Art Space,16 College St,☏+44 7980 925 449.Th-Su 11AM-5PM.A volunteer-run space promoting the work of emerging artists. Admission free. 
• 51.61787-3.9369517The Nick Holly Studio Gallery,Exchange Building, Cambrian Place, SA1 1SE,☏+44 7971 343366,info@nickholly.com.Tu-Su 10AM-5PM.Exchange Building, Cambrian Place, Maritime Quarter. Showcases the work of local artists.Free. 
• 51.65438-3.9038518Swansea Bus Museum,Unit 2, Viking Way, Winch Wen, SA1 7DA.M-F 9AM-4PM, Su 10AM-5PM.An exhibit of over thirty buses that once plied the streets of Swansea and West Wales.Admission free, donations welcome. 

• 51.568-3.98519Mumbles.A former fishing village at the western end of Swansea Bay the quaint streets, a12th-century castle, fashionable boutiques and excellent restaurants make this suburb of Swansea a must-see destination. Thepromenade 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. 

• TheGower Peninsula: the first area in Britain to be designated an "area of outstanding natural beauty". Its stunning scenery extends from sandy beaches, to hidden coves and lush country-side. In addition, (including the ruins of Swansea castle) there are seven medieval castles to explore. Home toOxwich Bay, named the most beautiful beach in the UK and one of the most beautiful in the world byThe Travel Magazine in 2007.
• TheMaritime Quarter: a bay-side development. The swinging masts and sails of the three marinas offer a great backdrop to the theatres, museums, hotels, cafes, bars and restaurants that jostle for positions in this tight little corner off the city centre. The south-side faces the sea, where there are great views over Swansea Bay and the Mumbles Head.
• 51.6217-3.9386120Plantasia,☏+44 1792 474555.Daily 10AM - 5PM.Parc Tawe. A chisel-shaped hot house in the city centre, complete with three different climate zones and exotic animals.Adult £3.70, children and concessions £2.70, Passport to Leisure £2.00, under 4's admitted free and Family £12.00. 
• 51.613-3.981121Singleton Park.Swansea's largest park meandering over several acres of gentle undulating hills and leading down to Swansea Bay botanical gardens near the Sketty end of the park, and Swansea University 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. 
• 51.5959-4.003222Clyne Gardens and Country Park.No doubt the gem in the crown of Swansea parks. Begun as a private garden, Clyne is bursting with flora and fauna meticulously collected from around the world. It has an internationally recognised 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. 
• 51.6217-3.968523Cwmdonkin Park.In the Uplands. A classic Victorian park that was a favourite with Dylan Thomas, and several of his works were inspired here. 
• 51.6157-3.973524Brynmill Park.Swansea's oldest park, in Dylan's Uplands famous for its large swan lake. 
• 51.6547-3.915325Lake Fendrod.In the heart of the Swansea Enterprise Park. It has a large population of swans and is stocked with a range of fishes like carp to 20 lb, skimmers to bream of 8 lb, tench to 6 lbs, roach to 2 lb together with crucian carp, dace, orfe, perch & rudd. There are about 75 pegs, some of which are concreted. Lake Fendrod is surrounded by a public footpath. 
• 51.67-3.9008326Swansea Vale Nature Reserve.At the far north eastern end of the Enterprise Park. It is one of the few remaining places of wetland in Swansea and features streams, ponds and woodland. The nature reserve is accessible by bike or on foot and features a board walk and bike paths 
• 51.629167-3.92027827Kilvey Community Woodland(Kilvey Hill).The south side of the woodland offers panoramic views of Swansea Bay right over to Mumbles Head and Port Talbot and also the city centre and docks, while the western face of the hill allows uninhibited views of the lower Swansea Valley, the northern part of the city centre, the Enterprise Zone and the Liberty Stadium. In addition, the hill has a sculpture trail, a number of footpaths and some dedicated white knuckle mountain biking trails. 
• 51.6229-3.965628View over the city and Swansea Bay.One of the best locations 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 Metropolitan University). 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 centre via the 1-in-3 incline of the cobbled street of Constitution Hill. 
• 51.595-3.996229Blackpill Beach(on the southern edge of Swansea Bay beach).Blackpill Beach and the Blackpill Stream which flows into it are a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. Many types of gulls can be seen feeding there at high tide. 
• 51.6364-3.8883330Crymlyn Bog.Crymlyn bog is the largest area of lowland fen in Wales to the east of Swansea City Centre. It is a Ramsar site, a Special Site of Scientific interest and a protected National Nature Reserve. There is a visitor centre with car parking. 
• 51.592-3.96431Swansea beach.A 5-mile (8-km) stretch of beach from Swansea Docks all the way to Mumbles with a cycle way and promenade along its whole length. 

• Swansea Bay Rider.A colourful children's land train runs throughout the summer along the promenade from the St. Helen's Stadium to Southend Gardens, Mumbles. 
• Rowing and crazy golf.A boating lake and crazy golf course between the junction of Sketty Lane and Mumbles Road and the entrance to Swansea University. 

• Discovery Centre(Brynmill Park).M-F 11AM-5PM, Sa Su 11AM-4PM.The centre offers the opportunity for children to observe and gain first hand knowledge about local wildlife and nature. 
• The LC.A state-of-the-art leisure centre. See 'Swimming' section for more details. 

• Waverley Excursions(Starting point- Swansea Ferry Port),☏+44 845 130-4647.The historic ship MV Balmoral runs day trips toIlfracombe in North Devon and cruises around the Gower coast in summer only. Thepaddle steamer Waverley runs similar trips, but less frequently. Certain journeys continue on toLundy Island. 
• ^{[formerly dead link]}Euphoria Sailing Ltd,☏+44 1792 234502,info@euphoriasailing.com.Motor boat and yacht cruises around the Gower coast starting from Swansea Marina or Oxwich Bay. 
• Gower Coast Adventures,☏+44 1792 540386.Offers trips around the Gower coast for up to 12 people on their ten-metre sea serpent cruise boat. 

Swansea is connected to the National Celtic Cycling Trail, and there are four main routes in city.

• The Jersey Marine and Fabian Way Trail.Traces the main road into the city centre from the east few special sites of interest, it passes the Jersey Marine Tower and offers views of the heavy industrial plants in Baglan Bay and Port Talbot. 
• The River Tawe Trail.Runs along the banks of the river Tawe passing through a former industrial area that has been reforested, skirts the Liberty Stadium, a business district and finally heads out to the Swansea Valley. 
• The Promenade Trail.Runs along Swansea Bay foreshore to the sea-side suburb of Mumbles it passes through the Marina and offers stunning views over Swansea Bay. On a sunny day, with the blue water lapping at the side of the promenade, cycling along this trail must be the nearest thing to poetry in motion. 
• The Clyne Valley Trail.Runs through Clyne Country Park to the North Gower coast, where it rejoins the National Celtic Cycle Trail the first part of the trail passes through a forested area, then meanders through sprawling suburbs before reaching the Loughor Estuary near Loughor. This trail leads from the Promenade Trail at Blackpill (a child's paddling area marks the site). Mountain bike trails are on the sides of the valley. 
• Mountain biking.Kilvey Hill has a dedicated downhill run and several other trails for the mountain bike enthusiast. 

Bikes can berented at the following city centre stores:

• Cycle Centre,10 Wyndham Street,☏+44 1792 410710.closed Sunday. 
• Action Bike,St. David's Square,☏+44 1792 464640.open daily.Will deliver bike to hotel free of charge. 

There are some wonderfully picturesque drives in Swansea. Below are a couple of popular ones:

• City centre - Mayals - Bishopston - Caswell Bay - Langland Bay - Bracelet Bay - Limeslade Bay- Mumbles - city centre.

To start this drive, take the A4067 Mumbles Road from the city centre and turn right onto B4436 Mayals Road. Follow road over Fairwood Common and take a left at Bishopston Village. From there, follow signs for the above places.

This drive takes in some beautiful coastal scenery. Recommended stops: Verdis café (Mumbles, Swansea Bay sea front), Castellamare café (Bracelet Bay sea front), and Mumbles Village (see listing under 'See').

• City centre - Uplands - Killay - Parkmill - Reynolston - Rhossili - Llangeneth - Oldwalls - Killay - Uplands - city centre.

To start this drive, take A4118 through the bed-sit suburb of Uplands and then Killay. Finally, after leaving Upper Killay, the road passes through the heart of the Gower Peninsular. Follow signs for the above places.

This drive passes through some quintessential British countryside and culminates at stunning Rhossili Bay. Recommended stops: Parkmill is the location of the Gower Heritage Centre, with its working water wheel, and Shepards' village store and café is a good place to take refreshment. Near the village of Reynolston, you can take a short detour onto Cefn Bryn to see Arthur's Stone (see listing under 'See'). Also, in Reynolston is the beautifully renovated country inn, 'the King Arthur's Hotel', which is an excellent place for lunch. At Rhossili, there are tea houses, but the attraction here is definitely the stunning views.

As you drive along the beautiful country lanes with the smell of freshly cut grass pervading the air and the vista of a wide blue bay opening before you, the words of a famous Buddhist master — 'the journey is the goal' — will never ring truer!

• Gower Flight Centre,Swansea Airport,☏+44 1792 298599.See and the Gower Peninsula from the air. Flights from Swansea Airport. 

Swansea has a number of excellent golf courses, many with spectacular sea views:

• Clyne Golf Club,118-120 Owls Lodge Ln,☏+44 1792 401989.Mayals. 6323-yard, 18-hole course built on moorland, par 70 sss72 
• Fairwood Park Golf Club,Blackhills Lane, Upper Killay,☏+44 1792 297849.6,658-yard, 18-hole parkland championship course 
• INCO Golf Club,☏+44 1792 841257.Clydach 
• Morriston Golf Club,160 Clasemont Rd,☏+44 1792 796528.Morriston. 5708-yard, 18-hole course 
• Langland Bay Golf Club,☏+44 1792 361721.Mumbles. 
• Pennard Golf Club,2 Southgate Rd,☏+44 1792 233131.Southgate. 6,225-yard, 18-hole, par 71 links golf course 

• SKIDZ Karting,Unit 1, Rear of Queensway,☏+44 1792 580927,info@skidzkarting.co.uk.Daily 10AM to 8PM. 

Bars andcafés that provide life music:

• Albert Hall(https://www.albert-hall.co.uk/whats-on/),Craddock Street,enquiries@albert-hall.co.uk.Live music venue in grade 2 listed building. Wide range or restaurants, bars, and cafes. 
• Creature Sound,1 Bethesda Street.,☏+44 1792 301178.10AM-11PM.Primarily a recording studio, but also hosts events and supports the local homeless community.(updated Sep 2018)
• Jam Jar,216 High Street,☏+44 1792 654366 07527246701.M-W 9AM-5PM, Th-Sa 9AM-late.Live music and events. Serves coffee, alcohol and meals(updated Mar 2017)
• Milkwoodjam,50 Plymouth St,☏+44 1792 477577.Live music venue, café/bar and recording studio. 
• No Sign Bar,56 Wind St,☏+44 1792 465300.A watering hole that dates to the 18th century with a relaxed atmosphere and good food. Generally an over-40 crowd. 
• Swansea Jazzland,☏+44 1792 466535.St. James Social Club, St. James Crescent, Uplands. Jazz, jazz and more jazz 
• Taliesin Arts Centre,☏+44 1792 602060.Swansea University. Music from around the globe, including high-profile jazz artists and other musicians of international acclaim. .(updated Aug 2018)
• The Bunkhouse,63 Kingsway.One of the largest live music watering holes in Swansea. Large range of local ales.(updated Aug 2018)
• ^{[dead link]}The Garage,47 Uplands Crescent, Uplands,☏+44 1792 475147.Hip-hop, metal, rock and stand-up comedy. 
• Uplands Tavern,42 Uplands Crescent, Uplands,☏+44 1792 458242.Rock and folk, attracts student crowd. 

• Dryad Brushcraft,53 Woodcote, Killay,☏+44 1792 547213,Info@dryadbushcraft.co.uk.Offers unique wilderness survival courses at various locations on the Gower. 

• Cinema.co,17 Castle Street,info@cinemaco.co.uk.6PM-midnight nightly (screening starts at 8PM).Screening of art and indie movies. Discussion after screening.Adult £5, student £4. 
• Odeon,Odeon: Parc Tawe,☏+44 333 006 7777.Multi-screen cinemas screening blockbusters. 
• Taliesin,☏+44 1792 602060.Screens quality mainstream, independent movies. 
• Vue,York Street,☏+44 8712 24024.Multi-screen cinemas screening blockbusters. 

• Teamforce UK(Paintballing & Activity Centre),Llangyfelach Rd,☏+44 845 257 9381. 

• Breakout Swansea,Kingsway,BreakoutSwansea@gmail.com.Participants solve puzzles to escape from a room. 

• South Wales Mountaineering Club. 

• Cricket: Swansea is one of the home locations of theGlamorgan County Cricket Club, one of the 18 major county clubs which make up the English and Welsh domestic cricket league. Glamorgan play at St Helen's Stadium.
• Football:Swansea City ('the Swans') play soccer in the Championship, the second tier for England and Wales. Their home ground (capacity 21,000) is theSwansea.com Stadium in Landore / Plasmarl SA1 2FA, a mile north of city centre.
• Rugby Union:
  • Ospreys are a profession team playing in the United Rugby Championship (formerly Pro-14), the predominantly Celtic super-league. Their home ground is St Helen's Stadium.
  • Swansea RFC (the 'All Whites') play in the Welsh Premiership, with their home ground at St Helen's Stadium.
• Swansea Bay Rally.A major event in the UK rally calendar. Held annually in summer at locations near Swansea. 

• Many of the bays on the Gower Peninsular are great for swimming. However, the most popular are the sandy bays ofLangland andCaswell. Both these beaches are under seasonal lifeguard supervision, offer changing and toilet facilities and are in easy reach of the city centre.
• Welsh National Pool,☏+44 1792 513513.Sketty Lane (near the university). Serious swimmers will enjoy the waters of this Olympic-size pool. 
• The LC.M-F 6:30AM-10PM, Sa Su 8AM-9PM.Maritime Quarter. A cutting edge leisure complex that includes a wave making machine, hydro-slide, artificial beach, children's paddling area, Europe's only indoor surfing centre and the world's first uphill water slide. LC offers an excellent rainy-day alternative to a day at the beach. 

• Swansea Tenpin Bowling,Parc Tawe, The Strand,☏+44 871 873 2450.Tenpin is next to an Odeon multiplex. It features 26 tenpin bowling lanes and an amusement arcade, two pool tables, a Wimpy burger bar and a drinks bar. 

• Grand Theatre,Singleton Street,☏+44 1792 475715.Swansea's largest theatre, with everything from pantomime to opera. 
• Brangwyn Hall.The Guildhall complex, Victoria Park. With its stunning British Empire Panels, commissioned for the British House of Lords, this grandiose concert hall is the focus for the annual Swansea Festival of Music and the Arts, the second largest such festival in the UK. 
• Dylan Thomas Centre,☏+44 1792 463980.The Maritime Quarter. Specialising in plays produced by the bard. 
• Dylan Thomas Theatre,☏+44 1792 473238.The Maritime Quarter. Home to the Swansea Little Theatre group, where Dylan Thomas was an actor/member as was Catherine Zeta Jones. 
• South Wales Evening Post Theatre,219 High St(Urban Village).The theatre is part of a so-called creative hub based in the Urban Village. 
• Swansea Arena,Oystermouth Road, Marina,☏+44 1792 804770.A state-of-the-art concert and conference venue. Offers a variety of events. Bar and cafe on site.(updated Jul 2022)
• Taliesin Arts Centre,☏+44 1792 602060.The University Campus, Singleton Park. This lively venue hosts a broad programme of events including cinema screenings, an average of ten visiting exhibitions per year, and a great variety of live performances, from dance and drama to jazz and world music. The emphasis at Taliesin is on quality and innovation. 
• Volcano Theatre,27–29 High Street(a few minutes walk south of Swansea Station.),☏+44 1792 464790.An innovative theatre group, performing original and bold work.(updated Jun 2021)

• Swansea Environment Centre,Old Telephone Exchange, Pier Street, Marina(behind the 5-star Morgan's Hotel on Adelaide Street),☏+44 1792 480200.The centre organises volunteer environmental work in the area; a great opportunity to meet local people and inject more purpose into your stay in Swansea. 
• Swansea City Farm,2 Pontarddulais Rd,☏+44 1792 578384,ray@swanseacommunityfarm.org.uk.Fforestfach. (Directions: bus numbers 110, 111, 112 and X13 from city centre to Ivorite Arms bus stop). A project that aims 'to provide a sustainable community farm which is stimulating and educational and offers enjoyable and safe activities.' Everyone is welcome to contribute their energy and time to this on-going project (call first). 

Swansea is a great place if you are intowalking^{[dead link]}. Here are a few easily accessible routes:

• Swansea Marina to Mumbles Pier: about five miles of flat walking with great views over Swansea Bay.
• Limeslade Bay to Caswell Bay: about three miles of cliff path walking with stunning scenery.
• Bishopston Valley: about three miles of riverside walking, starting just below Bishopston church, a peaceful and lush valley that spills out onto a storm beach. The return journey can be made over the cliff path to the left of the beach when facing the sea.

The calm waters of Swansea Bay and Oxwich Bay are ideal for watersports such asskiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, dinghy sailing andPower boat training.

• ^{[formerly dead link]}Watersports 4 All,Bishopston, E-main,☏+44 1792 234502,fun@watersports4all.com. 
• Mumbles Yacht Club,Southend, Mumbles,☏+44 1792 369321. 
• Mumbles Motor Boat and Fishing Club,The Pier, Mumbles, Swansea, SA3 4EN,☏+44 1792 363832. 
• Swansea Yacht and Sub Aqua Club,South dock, Pumphouse, East Burrows Road, Marina,☏+44 1792 469096. 
• Bay Watersports,Seafront at the Slip(near St. Helens stadium),☏+44 1792 534858.Lessons in windsurfing and kayaking on Swansea Bay. May to October, seven days a week. 
• Swansea Watersports,The Pilot House, Pilot Wharf, Swansea Marina,☏+44 7989 839878,info@swanseawaterports.com.Offers training in the following activities at various locations around the Gower Peninsula: powerboating, sailing, kayaking, jet skiing, first aid and sea survival. 
• ^{[dead link]}Cable Wake Boarding,Prince of Wales Dock, SA1. 

Some of the bestsurfing spots in the UK are in Swansea, with Llangenith, Caswell and Langland bays being the most popular.

• Gower Live.Real time view of the surf at Langland Bay 
• Gower Bays Surf Club,☏+44 1792 362192.Mumbles. 
• Langland Board Riders,19 Croftfield Crescent, Newton,☏+44 1792 386104. 

• Hotpod Yoga,Madison House, Orchard Street, City Centre,☏+44 740 1999134,ana.chidzoy@hotpodyoga.com. 
• Karma Fitness Centre and Juice Bar,13 Strand, City Centre,☏+44 1792 930019. 
• Urban Zen,Little Gam St, City Centre(Between Oxford St and Western St),☏+44 7734 105301. 

• Swansea University has a student population approaching 20,000, and for the past few years has been the successive winner ofThe Times award for thebest student experience in the UK. The university is also listed as one of the top 200 universities in the world according to QS World University Rankings.
• University of Wales Trinity St David, Swansea. With several campuses throughout the city, the university is famous for its courses in stained glass design and digital media.

• Gower College Swansea

• Shifu Waters Wú Yǐng Quán School Of Kung Fu & Qi Gong,Pentwyn Cottage, Cadle Mill, Penllergaer,☏+44 790 555 7613,shifujameswaters@gmail.com.The school offers training in Shaolin-style qi gong and kungfu, while also offering reflexology massage.(updated Dec 2021)

• Venue No 1 - Mark Jermin Stage School(Venue No 1),995A Carmarthen Rd,☏+44 3330 15111,manager@venueno1.co.uk.Classes in performing arts, cafe, theatre.(updated Oct 2021)

Sailing lessons are available at several training schools in the Swansea area:

• Mumbles Sailing Club,Mumbles,☏+44 1792 864499. 
• ^{[formerly dead link]}Rainbow Sailing,14 Cambrian Pl,☏+44 1792 467813.Marina. 
• ^{[formerly dead link]}Euphoria Sailing,34 Eastlands Park, Bishopston,☏+44 1792 234502. 

Swansea is teeming with quality restaurants: more than one hundred in the city centre alone. Wind Street for theme bars and qualityinternational cuisine. QualityChinese food on High Street and Princess Way. St.Helen's Road for take away and sit downIndian (also quality restaurants on Walter Road and off the Mumbles Road at Blackpill),Italian, Turkish andIndonesian. Cheap and excellent vegetarian at 8 Cradock Street, off Kingsway. TheEnvironment Centre, Pier street, Marina offers cheap and excellentfair trade coffee and snacks.

Grape and Olive at the top of the Meridian Tower in the Marina has incredible views over Swansea Bay

Mumbles Road in Mumbles has a wide range of restaurants. Check out Verdi's on Mumbles sea front for great views over a cappuccino.

Joe's Ice-cream Parlours are on St. Helen's Road, near the Guildhall, and near the post office on Mumbles Road in Mumbles.

Below is a very brief list of popular restaurants in the city centre and marina area.

V = vegetarians catered for.

American

• Charlie's Chowder,2 Prospect Pl,☏+44 1792 411074.Marina (near Morgan's Hotel). M Tu 11AM-5PM, W-Sa 11AM-midnight. Serves up great New England dishes in simple New England style. 

Cafes (English Breakfast)

• Coffee's Been,Ground Floor, 55 Walter Rd. 
• Espresso Bar,65 High Street,☏+44 1792 653469.This is an unpretentious little cafe opposite Swansea railway station. They serve fry-up breakfasts in the morning. During lunch hours, they serve several British classics like cottage pie and roast dinners. In addition to the plated food, they serve made to order sandwiches and baugettes and coffee. This is an excellent place to fill up when there is some time to kill before the next train leaves. 
• HQ Urban Kitchen,The Old Police Station, Orchard Street(Take a right after exiting the station. The Old Police Station is a five minute walk.),info@hqurbankitchen.co.uk.M-Sa: 9AM-4PM.Social enterprise. Eco-friendly packaging. Locally sourced ingredients. Specializes in hearty British/Continental food. Coffee. Creative space. 
• Kardomah,Morris Buildings, 11 Portland St. 
• Sams Café,St. Helens Road. 
• Uplands Diner,69 Uplands Crescent.Home of the "Beast" a massive breakfast, has to be seen to be believed. 

Cafes (Fish and Chips)

• Roma,Bryn-y-Mor Road. 
• Windsor Cafe,3 Cradock St. 

Chinese

• April's Cafe,19 Mansel St,☏+44 1792 455422. 
• April's Cafe 2,83 Brynymor Rd,☏+44 1792 455422. 
• China Deli and Cafe,42 St. Helens Rd.Tasty authentic Chinese cafe dishes, superb value. 
• Oriental Garden,18-23 Anchor Court, Victoria Quay, Maritime Quarter(close to Waterfront Museum and The LC),☏+44 1792 464600.Buffet-style cuisine with at least 40 dishes on rotation. 

Indian

• Indian Scooner,18 Anchor Court, Victoria Quay, Marina,☏+44 1792 649301. 
• Nawab Tandoori,12 Christina St,☏+44 1792 470770. 
• Anarkali Tandoori,79-80 St. Helens Rd,☏+44 1792 650549. 
• Gulshan,74 St. Helens Rd,☏+44 1792 456390. 

Indonesian

• Garuda,18 St. Helens Rd,☏+44 1792 653388. 

International

• Cafe Continental,37 Castle St,☏+44 1792 654663. 

Mexican

• El Mercado,Swansea Market,☏+44 1792 930694.Tu-Su 11AM-4PM.Freshly made Mexican dishes. The stall has quite a cult following among Mexican food lovers. Take away only.(updated Nov 2021)

Thai

• Lemongrass,43 St Helens Rd,☏+44 1792 654764. 
• 51.612721-3.95911The Bay View,400 Oystermouth Rd,☏+44 1792 652610.Near the Guildhall, the restaurant offers wonderful views of Swansea Bay, and is connected to a lounge bar. Good, inexpensive meals. 

Vegetarian

• Canteen 18,18 Brynymor Road,☏+44 1792 555518.Daily 10AM-4PM.A vegan restaurant serving mouth-watering dishes.(updated Aug 2017)
• Khusi Khana,36 St Helens Rd,☏+44 1792 411076.Indian snacks and fast food. 
• Govinda's,8 Cradock St(off Kingsway),☏+44 1792 468469.M-Th noon-3PM, F Sa noon-6PM. Closed on Sunday.Cheap and really excellent food. Indian dishes are a speciality, but the desserts alone are worth the visit. 
• Retreat,2 Humphrey St(off Walter Road),☏+44 1792 457880.Vegan, small, backstreet cafe. 

Welsh/British

• ^{[dead link]}The Kitchen Table,626 Mumbles Rd,☏+44 1792 367616.Tu-Sa 10AM-4PM, Sa 6:30-9:30PM.Mumbles. Wholesome meals made with locally sourced ingredients. 

Chinese (Cantonese)

• Dragons Nest,12 High St,☏+44 1792 644868.The only Chinese restaurant in the Swansea area to serve Dim Sum. Excellent food and great service. 
• Evergreen Cantonese,9 St Helens Rd,☏+44 1792 466787. 
• Gigi Gao,18-23 Anchor Court, Victoria Quay, Marina,☏+44 1792 653300.11AM-10PM.A restaurant overlooking the waterfront. Exceptional food. Vibrant Chinese decor. Outdoor seating.(updated Apr 2018)
• Rendez-Vous,☏+44 1792 467113.St. Davids Square, Princess Way. French and Chinese cuisine, great food, great service. 
• Sea Garden,☏+44 1792 872886.Penclawdd Road, Penclawdd. 
• The Emperor,206 High St,☏+44 1792 652888. 
• Wild Swan,14 Orchard St,☏+44 1792 472121. 

French

• Bistro Pierre,3 Oyster Wharf, Mumbles Road, Mumbles,☏+44 1792 365040.M-F noon-3PM, 5-10PM; Sa Su noon-9PM.High quality French cuisine and seasonal menus. Seafront location, offering stunning views over Swansea Bay.Two-course prix-fixe lunch £11.95. Two-course pre-theatre menu for £14.95.(updated Oct 2017)

Indian

• 51.616273-3.9566074Rose Indienne,73-74 St. Helens Road,☏+44 1792 467000.Swansea.(updated Dec 2021)

Italian

• Gallinis,Unit 3, Fishmarket Quay, Marina,☏+44 1792 456285,gallinisrestaurant@outlook.com.Daily noon-2:30PM, 6PM-midnight.Superb traditional Italian cuisine. on the waterfront at the marina.(updated Oct 2017)

International

• RoK Restaurant,Bracelet Bay, Mumbles(when travelling from Mumbles, on the left after passing Mumbles Head),☏+44 1792 712210,info@secrethg.co.uk.Th F noon-2:30PM, 5:30-9PM; Sa noon-9PM; Sun noon-5PM.A fine dining restaurant. Warm and intimate interior. Unobstructed views over Bracelet Bay. Excellent food.(updated Apr 2024)
• 51.616423-3.9597525Truffle,1A King Edward's Rd,☏+44 1792 547246. 

Mediterranean/Spanish

• El Pescador,Trawler Road, Marina,☏+44 1792 464947.Tu-Su noon-9:30PM.Authentic Spanish cuisine with a modern twist. Solid wooden tables. Views over the marina waterfront. Highly rated for food and atmosphere.(updated Jun 2021)
• 51.619168-3.9385976La Braseria,28 Wind St,☏+44 1792 469683.A favourite with Catherine Zeta-Jones. 

Welsh/British

• Altitude 28 Sky Bar and Restaurant(Altitude 28),Top Floor, Meridian Tower, Trawler Road, Maritime Quarter,☏+44 1792 712-772,reservations@altitude28skybar.co.uk.Daily noon-9:30PM.British and Continental menu. Chic Interior. Highest restaurant in Wales. View over Marina and Swansea Bay. Excellent meals. Coffee and cocktails.(updated Dec 2024)

• Langland's Brasserie,Brynfield Road, Langland,☏+44 1792 363699,info@langlandsbrasserie.co.uk.A fine modern British restaurant with a fantastic view overlooking Langland Bay. Ingredients are organic when available. 
• Norton House,Norton Road, Mumbles,☏+44 1792 403210,enquiries@nortonhousehotel.co.uk.Daily 5-9PM, Th-Sa noon-PM, Su noon-3PM.Quiet and elegant ambience. Historical mansion setting. Locally sourced ingredients. Excellent desserts.(updated Apr 2024)
• Quay Three,Trawler Road, Marina(five minute drive from city centre),☏+44 1792 462251.Tu-Su 8:30AM until late (closed Sunday evening).A chic deli, bar, cafe and restaurant. Great place to boat-watch over a cappuccino. 
• Papa Sanchos,College St,☏+44 1792 454647.Stone grill restaurant. 
• Slice,73-75 Eversley Road, Sketty(five-minute drive from city centre),☏+44 1792 290929.Th-Sa noon-2PM, 6:30-9PM.Excellent dishes made with locally sourced produce and seasonal ingredients. Slice has won two covered 'Which' awards for cuisine. 
• ^{[dead link]}Swigg,Unit 18 Waterfront Museum, Marina,☏+44 1792 655666,theswigg@gmail.com.7:30AM-11PM.On the waterfront, Swigg functions as a cool café by day and a sophisticated bar by night. 
• The Shed,Unit 1&2 J-Shed, Kings Road, Marina,☏+44 1792 712120,info@theshedsa1.com.Tu 5-11PM, W-Sa noon-11PM, Su noon-6PM.Located in listed building. Fine dining. Locally sourced ingredients. Refined interior. Close to waterfront.(updated Apr 2024)
• The Welsh House,Unit 5, J Shed Arcade.W Th 4-11PM, F 4PM-late, Sa noon-late, Su 4-11PM.Located in a listed building. Elegant interior. Views over the marina. Innovative Welsh cuisine using local products where available.(updated Jan 2025)

Swansea enjoys a wonderful cafe culture, originally sparked by an influx of Italian families to the city in the early 20th century and later expanded with the establishment of local independents.

City Centre/Marina

• Americanos,Prince of Wales Docks, Kings Road, SA1,☏+44 1792 468230.Th-Su 3PM-midnight. Live music F and Sa nights.A waterside jazz cafe/bar serving snacks and tapas. 
• BaseKamp,King's Lane.Su-Th 8AM-4:30PM, F 8AM-4:30PM, 5-10PM; Sa 8AM-4:30PM, 5-10PM.A spacious cafe in an historical building. Micro-roastery, Excellent coffee and meals.(updated Jul 2019)
• Bogarts CBD Coffee House,11 St Helen's Road.8AM-6PM.Relaxed atmosphere, good coffee. Specialises in offering Cannabidiol (CBD) supplements.(updated Oct 2018)
• Boobo Tea,6 Plymouth Street(Take a left after exiting Quadrant Shopping Union Street entrance),☏+44 1792 449881.M-Sa 11AM-6:30PM, Su noon - 5PM.Authentic Taiwanese bubble tea. Fruit teas. Variety of toppings. Bright and simple interior. 
• Chai Stop,12 Mansel Street.Sa-Th noon-11PM, F 1-11PM.Various kinds of chai, including the spicy karak chai, Indian desserts, and all day breakfasts. Bright and cheerful Indian-style decor.(updated Feb 2022)
• Chuckaboo,11 Strand,☏+44 7930 371948.W-Su 6-11:30PM.Late night cafe. Mix of vintage and modern design. LGBTQ-friendly. Excellent coffee and snacks.(updated Jul 2019)
• Coast Cafe,Trawler Road, Marina.Su-Th 9AM-6PM, F 9AM-7PM, Sa 9AM-8PM.A trendy cafe over looking the marina. Out door seating. Great coffee and snacks.(updated Jul 2019)
• Coffee Punks,32 Kingsway.Exposed wood and concrete gives the cafe an urban charm. Vegan cakes are a speciality.(updated Jul 2019)
• Common Meeple,77 St Helen's Road,☏+44 1792 304898,info@commonmeeple.co.uk.W-M noon-11PM.Board game cafe. Spacious and bright environment. Wide range of board games. Coffee and light meals. Advance booking recommended.(updated Sep 2022)
• Gershwins Coffee House,14 Nelson St,☏+44 1792 474000. 
• Ground Plant Based Coffee(Ground Coffee Shop),The Sup Hut, Francis Street, Brynmill,☏+44 7581 005605.Tu-F 8:30AM-3:30PM, M 9AM-3:30PM, Sa 9:30AM-2:30PM.Vegan cafe. Cozy and intimate interior. Delicious snacks and desserts.(updated Jun 2021)
• Holbrook's,28 Union St,☏+44 1792 477797.Pleasant and warm atmosphere. Excellent coffee, including Fair Trade, and good selection of cakes. 
• Java Tading Company,10 Picton Archade,☏+44 1792 458141. 
• Kardomah,11 Portland St,☏+44 1792 652336.The original Kardomah was a favourite haunt of Dylan Thomas. 
• Matt's Cafe,Mathew House, 82 High Street.Su 6:30-9PM, M Tu 10AM-4PM.Matt's offers healthy, wholesome meals on a pay-as-much-as-you-like basis.(updated Mar 2017)
• Millefoglie,15 Picton Arcade,☏+44 7864308723,info@millefoglie.co.uk.Sa-F 7:30AM-6PM.A authentic Italian cafe. Excellent coffee and desserts. Bright and welcoming decor.(updated Aug 2021)
• ^{[dead link]}Mosaic,Urban Village, 218 High St,☏+44 1792 655225.A chic bistro-cafe. great coffee, innovative dishes (including a wide selection of vegetarian options) and interesting wines. 
• Nonna's,Stall 16CD, Swansea Market,☏+44 7860 453966.Vegan cafe. An assortment of desserts. Doughnuts are a specialty.(updated Aug 2022)

• Social Bean,12 St Mary's Square(Opposite St Mary's church),☏+44 1792 473443.M-Sa 8AM-3:30AM.A community coffee shop that provides employment and skills development opportunities for disabled people. The cafe sells fairtrade artisan coffee and healthy locally sourced meals.(updated Dec 2021)
• Social Dice,43 Wind Street,cafesocialdice@gmail.com.A board game cafe. More than 400 board games. Serves coffee, beers and cocktails, Hot and cold snacks. Cover charge to play games. Friendly and inviting atmosphere.(updated Feb 2022)
• Strudles Coffee Shop,Whitewalls,☏+44 1792 650011. 
• The Sub-Cafe,6 Shoppers Walk Archade,☏+44 1792 476334. 
• ^{[dead link]}Tapestri,Llys Glas(corner of Orchard Street and Alexandra Road).A social enterprise cafe that uses fairtrade and locally sourced products. 
• Tiffanys,57-58 Plymouth St, City Centre,☏+44 1792 646048. 
• Waterfront Cafe(National Waterfront Museum),☏+44 1792 456100.A large cafe great views over marina huge selection of coffees and teas. 

Mumbles

• Cafe Valance,50 Newton Rd.The leather sofas, wood flooring, brick walls and open fronting give this cafe a very trendy but homely atmosphere. 
• The Coffee Denn,34/36 Newton Rd,☏+44 1792 360044.Simple, but excellent value meals 
• Ocean,61 Newton Rd,☏+44 1792 363462.Alcohol served. 
• Pavilion Bistro(Mumbles Pier),☏+44 1792 365225. 
• AlsoVerdis andCastellamare, seeEat listing.

Swansea Beach

• The Junction Cafe,Old Station Building, Mumbles Road,☏+44 1792 406000.A quaint cafe and snack bar based in a building that was once a station for the historic Swansea to Mumbles Railway.(updated Jun 2021)

• The Secret Beach Bar and Kitchen,Mumbles Road,☏+44 1792 439220.Daily.A cafe, bar, and eatery near St Helen's Rugby Ground. On the beach front. Uninhibited views over Swansea Bay.(updated Jun 2021)

Also see Mumbles section above.

Uplands

• Chambers Cafe Bar,87 Brynymor Rd,☏+44 1792 480699.Modern and cosy serves wholesome beverages and snacks, such as fair-trade coffee, teas, smoothies, local produce, hummus and ciabattas. 
• Noahs Yard,38 Uplands Rd.M-Th 4PM-midnight, F Sa 4PM-3AM, Su 4-11PM. Live jazz M 8:30-11PM.An Italian-inspired café/bar. Excellent atmosphere. Cosy and earthy artwork, including an original Banksy. 
• One Shoe Cafe,1 King Edward Rd,☏+44 1792 439595.In a former cobblers, this small, cosy cafe serves excellent coffees and wholesome snacks at very competitive prices. 

• Sloth Cafe,102 Glanmor Rd, Uplands,☏+44 7759 506441.M-F 7AM-2PM, Sa 8AM-2PM.Small, chic café, with speciality coffees, delicious pastries and cakes.(updated Jan 2023)

• Pure Refreshment,Ty John Penri Building, St. Helen's Road(near junction with Kingsway).A juice and smoothies bar using all natural ingredients 
• Smoothie Den,Stall 57A, Swansea Market.Run by a former doctor who is passionate about health. Cold press juices. Smoothies made from natural ingredients. Waffles with a variety of toppings. 

City centre: Wind Street vicinity

• Bar-Co,8-9 Wind St,☏+44 1792 460658. 
• Bar SA1,2-5 Wind St,☏+44 1792 630941. 
• Exchange Bar,10 The Strand,☏+44 1792 510919. 
• Jam Jar,218 High Street,☏+44 1792 654366 07527246701.M-W 9AM-5PM, Th-Sa 9AM-late.live music and events venue(updated Mar 2017)
• Idols,10 Wind St,☏+44 1792 474240. 
• La Cantina,Wind St,☏+44 1792 472874. 
• Main Stage,36 Castle Street.Gay bar. Cabaret. 
• Penderyn Distillery,Former Hafod Copper works, Hafod(a 15-min drive from the city centre, near the Swansea.co Stadium).Penderyn's third whisky distillery opens July 2023 in a restored listed building. 
• Revolution,24 Wind Street,☏+44 1792 475189. 
• The Cross Keys Inn,12 St Mary's St,☏+44 1792 630921.A pub in a 14th-century building. Outdoor seating. 
• Utopia,Ground Floor, York Chambers, York Street.M Tu Th noon-9PM, W F Sa noon-11PM, Su noon-5PM.LGBTQ friendly bar. Live entertainment(updated Jun 2022)
• Varsity,63 Wind St,☏+44 1792 463520. 

City centre: Kingsway vicinity

• Eli Jenkins,24-25 Oxford St,☏+44 1792 641067. 
• The Potters Wheel(Wetherspoons),85 The Kingsway,☏+44 1792 465113. 

City centre: Bryn-y-Mor Road vicinity

• Cardamon Lounge,St. Paul's Church, St. Helens Road. 
• The Brunswick Arms,3 Duke St. 
• The Bryn-y-Mor,17 Brynymor Rd. 
• The Mill,75 Brynymor Rd. 
• The Westbourne,1 Brynymor Rd. 
• The Wig,134 St. Helens Rd. 

Uplands

• Noahs Yard,38 Uplands Rd.M-Th 4PM-midnight, F Sa 4PM-3AM, Su 4-11PM.An Italian-inspired cafe/bar. Live jazz every Monday from 8:30-11PM. Excellent atmosphere. Cosy and earthy artwork, including an original Banksy. 
• Uplands Tavern,42 Uplands Crescent, Uplands.Live bands play on most nights of the week. Features a large fenced outdoor area at the front. This can be a very lively pub at weekends and on special occasions. 
• Mozart's,76b Walter Rd,Uplands,☏+44 1792 649984.bar and music venue 

Swansea has two hostels: one in the city centre and one in a rural setting (SeeGower Peninsula):

• Cwtsh Hostel,10-14 Castle Square(A five-minute walk from the train station, vertically opposite the castle),☏+44 1792 986556,hello@cwtsh-hostel.co.uk.A contemporary and stylish hostel with bunk pods and private rooms. Coffee shop, kitchen, cinema. Views over castle ruins and main square.£20 to £50 a night.(updated Oct 2021)

• Riverside Caravan Park,Ynysforgan Farm, Morriston, Swansea, SA6 6QL(just off the M4 Motorway Junction 45),☏+44 1792 775587.Set in a very green location surrounded by trees; nearest caravan park to Swansea city centre. 
• River View Touring Park,The Dingle, Llanedi, Pontarddulais, Swansea, SA4 0FH,☏+44 1269 844876.In a beautiful rural location in south-west Wales. It is easily reached from junction 49 of the M4 and other major routes. 

• Leonardo's Guest House,380 Oystermouth Rd,☏+44 1792 470163. 
• The Oyster Hotel,262 Oystermouth Rd,☏+44 1792 654345. 
• Devon View,394396 Oystermouth Rd,☏+44 1792. 
• The White House Hotel,4 Nyanza Terrace, Uplands,☏+44 1792 473856. 
• Cefn-Bryn Guest House,6 Uplands Crescent, Uplands,☏+44 1792 466687. 
• Carlton Hotel,654-656 Mumbles Rd, Mumbles,☏+44 1792 36045. 
• Shoreline Hotel,648 Mumbles Rd, Mumbles,☏+44 1792 366233. 
• The Coast House,708 Mumbles Rd, Mumbles,☏+44 1792 368702. 
• Glenview House,140 Langland Rd, Mumbles,☏+44 1792 367933. 
• Langland Cove Guest House,4 Rotherslade Rd, Langland, Mumbles,☏+44 1792 366003. 
• The Mirador Town House,14 Mirador Crescent, Uplands,☏+44 1792 466976,info@themirador.co.uk. 

• Bay Apartments,29 Camona Dr,☏+44 1792 645566,mail@bayestateagents.com.Apartments in the Maritime Quarter. 
• Clyne Farm Cottages & Clyne Estate,Westport Avenue, Mayals,☏+44 1792 403333,info@clynefarm.com.Converted barns and cottages plus horse riding and other activities. Near Mumbles. 
• 51.62644-4.040341^{[dead link]}Gower Edge Self Catering,Killan Road, Dunvant, Swansea. SA2 7TH(Leave at Junction 48 M4),☏+44 1608 674467,enquiries-gower-edge@live.co.uk.Spacious detached property which sleeps 8 in comfort. Wales Tourist Board 3*. Children and pets are most welcome. Short breaks and longer stays available.£399-899. 
• Hendrefoelan Holiday Apartments,Gower Road, Sketty,☏+44 1792 208929,n.s.edmonds@swansea.ac.uk.Housing and apartments in student village at vacation times only. 

• Swansea Valley Holiday Cottages,Plas Farm, Cilybebyll, Pontardawe, Swansea,☏+44 1792 864611,enquiries@walescottages.com.An historic manor house and complex of eight luxury farm holiday cottages in the beautiful Swansea hinterland outside Pontardawe. Pet friendly cottages available.(updated Nov 2021)

• Home from Home,101 Newton Road, Mumbles, SA3 4BN,☏+44 1792 360624,fax:+44 1792 361626,enquiries@homefromhome.com.They offer a range of holiday cottages and apartments in Mumbles, Gower, Swansea Marina and other areas of south west Wales. 

• Alexander Private Hotel,3 Sketty Road, Uplands,☏+44 1792 470045.Small and pleasant hotel with friendly and helpful staff. Close to the city centre, Swansea University and Gower Peninsula. 
• Hotel Ibis,Fabian Way,☏+44 1792 638800.Off the motorway connecting road, a car is essential. Not convenient for tourists. 
• 51.620442-3.9466292Hurst Dene Guest House,10 Sketty Road, Uplands, Swansea, SA2 0LJ,☏+44 1792 280920,fax:+44 1792 280920,hurstdenehotel@yahoo.co.uk.Hurst Dene is in the leafy suburb of Uplands just off Uplands Square on the main road to the heart of the Gower peninsula. They offer guest rooms and self-catering apartments at affordable prices. 
• Premier Travel Inn:
  • City Gates,The City Gates, Wind Street, SA1 1EE,☏+44 870 990 6562.Convenient for city centre, marina and 'Swansea-Cork Ferry.' Extremely noisy at weekends as Wind Street is Swansea's main watering hotel and many of the out-of-town revelers stay at this hotel. 
  • Swansea North(in the enterprise park),Upper Forest Way, Morriston, SA6 8WB,☏+44 870 990 6562.Quieter than the city centre one and next to a popular Taybarns eat as much as you like restaurant. 
  • Swansea Waterfront,Langdon Road, SA1 8QY,☏+44 871 527-9212.This hotel is set in a tranquil location adjacent to the Prince of Wales marina. A Beefeater restaurant and a Tesco convenience store are on the ground floor. Recommended for business people and tourists. 
• 51.609722-3.9805563Swansea University,Singleton Park, SA2 8PP,☏+44 1792 602403,conferences@swansea.ac.uk.Swansea University offers accommodation to the public during Summer and Easter holidays. They can offer a wide range of accommodation ranging from bed and breakfast non-ensuite single rooms through to self-catering apartments. They can accommodate large groups for events and conferences in the local area. Accommodation is available in Swansea University's Singleton Park campus set in beautiful parklands which is 5 minutes walk to the beach. 
• Travelodge Swansea Central Hotel,Princess Way, SA1 3LQ,☏+44 870 191 1826.A modern but very basic hotel in city centre. 
• Travelodge Swansea M4 Hotel,Swansea West Services, Penllergaer, SA4 9GT,☏+44 871 984-6055. 

• A Space in the City,Pricess Way/Marina,☏+44 29 2009-9889.Serviced apartments in the city centre: clean, spacious and within a five-minute walk of leisure centre, casino and shopping. 
• Delta Hotels by Marriott(Delta),Maritime Quarter,☏+44 870 400-7282.Convenient for city centre. Wonderful views over Swansea Bay and marina. 
• Dragon Hotel,39 Kingsway Circle,☏+44 1792 657100,info@dragon-hotel.co.uk.Swansea's oldest and one of its most popular hotels in the heart of the City Centre. 
• Norton House,Norton Road, Mumbles,☏+44 1792 404891.A converted small Georgian manor house. 
• Mercure Swansea Hotel,Phoenix Way, SA7 9EG,☏+44 844 815 9081,info@mercureswansea.co.uk.Check-in:2PM, check-out:noon.Swap the urban whirl for lake views at the Mercure Swansea Hotel, gateway to the Brecon Beacons and Gower Peninsula. 
• The Grand,High St(across from Swansea Railway Station entrance),☏+44 1792 645898.A beautifully renovated classic hotel. Convenient for city centre and rail travel. 
• The Village,☏+44 870 066 5013,fax:+44 1792 479946.SA1 Waterfront, Fabian Way, in the prestigious SA1 Waterfront area, a 20-minute walk to city centre, or two minutes to sea front. 
• Winston Hotel,Church Lane, Bishopston,☏+44 1792 232074,email@winstonhotel.com.A small family run hotel in quiet location over looking the Bishopston Valley and close to sandy beaches.