Swansea is one of the UK’s seaside towns, where you can enjoy life and beauty. It has been voted one of the most beautiful cities in the UK. It boasts over 70 beautiful sandy beaches, the Gower Peninsula, which has been described as ‘Britain’s number one natural beauty’, and the nearby Brecon Beacons National Park. There are many things to do in Swansea for couples, adults, kids and students. With museums, galleries, castles, theatres, cinemas, indoor markets, stadiums, parks, zoos, ferris wheels, the sea, sandy beaches, foothills, waterfalls, a sea of stars, lighthouses, and so much more, Swansea will make you fall in love with this small town without even realising it.
Fun Things to Do in Swansea: Tourist Attractions
Three Cliffs Bay
Three Cliffs Bay is located in Gower, named after the three cliffs along the coast. Not only can you and your friends go hiking in the mountains, but it is also suitable for picnics and camping, and there are particular camping sites nearby so that students can book a tent with a view of the sea in advance. The beach is backed by cliffs, along the dunes, salt marshes and rock pools piled up by the magnificent coastline all the way to the south, chasing the sunrise and sunset, everything is bright and just right. We recommend hiking from Penmaen to Three Cliffs Bay, overlooking the sea, with views of nature and the possibility of encountering the ruins of castles and old churches along the way! Be aware of the tides and currents in Three Cliffs Bay, and be careful not to get stung by the jellyfish that can be seen at low tide!
Address: Southgate SA3 2HD, United Kingdom
Rhossili Bay
Rhossili Bay is located at the southwest end of the Gower Peninsula. With the soft and delicate beach, gentle waves, and lush green mountains, this place is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe in the sunny weather is very out of the film, or in the lawn blowing the sea breeze, sitting on the ground, enjoy the cosy and peaceful sunset, for a long time in the campus of the students is a fun thing to do. Along the way, you may see a lot of ponies and lambs; if you are interested, you can also try paragliding and surfing! The 5km walk from Rhossili Bay to Mewslade Bay is a great way to celebrate the arrival of summer with a group of friends who can enjoy the poetic nature along the field paths. It is recommended to wear non-slip outdoor sports shoes and pay attention to the timetable of the bus stop back to the city!
Address: Rhossili SA3 1PL
Swansea Market
Swansea Market is the largest indoor market in Wales and has been voted the best large indoor market in the UK for 2024! The historic market offers visitors and residents a unique shopping and dining experience. From Monday to Saturday, you’ll find a range of beautifully presented specialist stalls offering everything from fresh local produce and delicious food to antiques and bespoke gifts. With the Market Garden at its centre, you can enjoy everything the market offers in more ways than ever! Enjoy lunch with friends under the 7.5m high pergola, grab a coffee and plug in your laptop, or soak up the atmosphere with a delicious meal from one of the stalls. There are also regular events, which include live music, performances and entertainment.
Address: Whitewalls, Swansea SA1 3PQ
Oystermouth Castle
Oystermouth Castle is a Norman castle built in the 12th-13th century in the southwest Swansea town of Mumbles. Nestled in a verdant meadow at the top of a hill, it has a favourable position overlooking the whole of magnificent Swansea Bay and the rolling hills and woodland. Enter the castle, explore the crisscrossing, hidden cellars and staircases, listen to the stories of the castle’s history and imagine what life must have been like for the Normans.
Address: Castle Ave, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BA
Indoor Things to Do in Swansea: Museums and Galleries
Swansea Museum
Swansea Museum is the oldest museum in Wales and covers the long history of Swansea, from prehistoric inhabitants to medieval periods, industrial development, wartime, and the modern era. The museum houses themed information on local maritime and transport history, including the opening of the Mumbles Railway in 1807, and there are regular events and exhibitions, so there’s always something new to see and discover. Swansea Museum also hosts seasonal exhibitions from time to time, with current exhibitions including Swansea in the Twentieth Century, an exhibition of photographs, and an exhibition of natural specimens of flora and fauna.
Address: Victoria Rd, Maritime Quarter, Swansea SA1 1SN, United Kingdom
National Waterfront Museum
Located near Swansea Marina, the National Waterfront Museum tells the story of industry and innovation in Wales now and over the last 300 years and is a testament to the history of the Industrial Revolution and the maritime history of Wales. Fifteen themed exhibition areas tell the story of Wales at different times using touch screen technology and displays of real objects to give visitors a deeper understanding of the industrial period in Wales and new inventions. Before visiting, we recommend checking the National Waterfront Museum’s website for upcoming exhibitions and events. Currently, the museum has an exhibition, ‘Making Waves – RNLI Cymru 200’, which looks at the Royal National Lifeboat Institution’s significant contribution to safety at sea.
Address: Oystermouth Road, Maritime Quarter, Swansea SA1 3RD
Glynn Vivian Art Gallery
The Glynn Vivian Art Gallery is a centre of excellence for the visual arts, established in 1911 by an original bequest from Richard Glynn Vivian; the gallery houses a century’s worth of unique collections supports emerging and established local artists and brings some of the world’s leading artists to Wales organises major exhibitions and commissions exceptional site-specific and socially engaged work. Known as Wales’ world-class gallery and visual arts centre, it is a venue for historical and artistic exhibitions, talks, performances and events. With an extensive collection of fine art, ceramics, and works on paper that form an important part of the city’s cultural memory, Glynn Vivian believes that ‘art can change your life’.
Address: Alexandra Rd, Swansea SA1 5DZ
Swansea Grand Theatre
Swansea Grand Theatre is a captivating cultural gem and a must-visit for those seeking indoor things to do in Swansea. Established in 1897, this beautifully restored Victorian theatre blends historic charm with modern amenities, making it the perfect venue for a wide range of performances. Swansea Grand Theatre has something for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for gripping dramas, dazzling musicals, side-splitting comedies, or captivating dance shows.
The theatre offers a rich program throughout the year, ensuring visitors of all ages enjoy a memorable cultural experience. Its welcoming atmosphere and stunning architecture make it the ideal destination for art lovers and families looking for an engaging indoor activity. If you’re searching for things to do in Swansea, visiting Swansea Grand Theatre promises an unforgettable blend of entertainment and history, right in the city’s heart.
Dylan Thomas Centre
The Dylan Thomas Centre is a memorial to the British poet Dylan Thomas, who was born and raised in Swansea. The exhibition is a memorial to Dylan Thomas, who was born and raised in Swansea and tells his legendary story. Both realism and romanticism influenced Dylan Thomas Dylan Thomas’s poetry, and he is considered to be the most famous English poet since Auden. In addition to the collection of memorabilia in the Memorial Hall, there are a series of recordings of his work. The most impressive is the baritone Richard Burton. The most impressive is baritone Richard Burton’s reading of ‘Under Milk Wood’, which will mesmerise you with the beauty of the poem.
Things to Do in Swansea with Kids
Clyne Gardens
Clyne Gardens in Mayals is perfect for cooling off at the weekend, and for families with children, it’s a mecca for walking in Swansea! Known as a natural oxygen bar with abundant wildflower varieties, Clyne Gardens has a history that goes back as far as 1860, when William Graham Vivian bought Clyne Castle to display his wealth and planted three trees himself. William Graham Vivian bought Clyne Castle as a display of his wealth and planted three trees, one of which, a spiked cypress, is one of the tallest trees ever recorded in the UK. Many of the park’s peonies today still retain their past numbers. In summer, the red and white humpback bridges and wooded rushing brooks are a joy to stop at, with flowers spanning the centuries and trees in full bloom, weaving a midsummer’s dream.
Address: Mayals, Swansea SA3 5BW, UK
Plantasia Tropical Zoo
For families searching for things to do in Swansea with kids, a visit to Plantasia Tropical Zoo is a must. Located in the heart of the city, this lush tropical paradise is home to over 40 fascinating species, including crocodiles, meerkats, monkeys, and the rare Egyptian tortoise, one of its most famous inhabitants. Kids will be captivated by the vibrant surroundings and exotic animals, offering a fun yet educational experience. The zoo provides a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with the animals, and for those feeling adventurous, there’s even a chance to feed the crocodiles! With interactive exhibits and guided tours, Plantasia is designed to entertain the whole family. Whether you’re visiting for a day or making it part of a longer trip, this tropical oasis promises to be one of the most exciting things to do with kids in Swansea.
Address: Parc Tawe Retail Park, Swansea SA1 2AL
The LC Swansea
For families looking for fun things to do in Swansea with kids, a trip to The LC Swansea is an exciting option. As Wales’s largest indoor water park, it’s packed with thrilling activities for all ages. Kids will love the variety of water slides, splash zones, and the exhilarating rafting river, offering hours of entertainment. One of the park’s main attractions is the Boardrider, an indoor surf simulator that allows beginners to master surfing without the worry of weather or wind. With consistent, gentle waves, even first-timers can confidently practice and improve their surfing skills in a safe, controlled environment. Whether you’re riding the waves or racing down slides, The LC Swansea offers endless fun and adventure, perfect for families seeking an alternative to the beach.
Address: Oystermouth Rd, Maritime Quarter, Swansea SA1 3ST
Where to Stay in Swansea?
Accommodation is also an important factor in the experience when visiting Swansea. Our student accommodation in Swansea is spread across the city centre, Swansea University, mumbles and attractions. Our Swansea flats start from £78 per week for student accommodation, private apartments and hotels, which not only have great interiors but also excellent communal facilities, with gyms, laundries, games rooms and more, where students can relax and unwind. In addition, our Swansea flats are conveniently located close to bus and train stations, making it easy for students to get to various attractions.
Conclusion about Things to Do in Swansea
In conclusion, Swansea is a city that offers exciting things to do in Swansea for everyone, whether you’re a lover of nature, history, or culture. From its breathtaking beaches and coastal trails to its rich artistic scene and fascinating museums, every corner of Swansea promises a unique experience. Whether you spend your day exploring the beauty of the Gower Peninsula, diving into Welsh history at the National Waterfront Museum, or enjoying a night of entertainment at the Swansea Grand Theatre, this vibrant city will leave a lasting impression. There’s always something exciting to discover, making Swansea a must-visit destination for any traveller.
FAQs on Things to do in Swansea
How do I spend a day in Swansea?
Here’s a detailed time plan for spending a perfect day in Swansea, capturing the best sights, food, and experiences the city has to offer:
- 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM: Breakfast in Uplands
- 9:45 AM – 11:00 AM: Explore Swansea Marina & National Waterfront Museum
- 11:15 AM – 12:30 PM: Relax at Swansea Bay Beach
- 12:45 PM – 2:00 PM: Lunch in Mumbles
- 2:15 PM – 3:15 PM: Visit Oystermouth Castle
- 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM: Afternoon in Clyne Gardens
- 4:45 PM – 5:30 PM: Coffee Break at Uplands
5:45 PM – 7:00 PM: Glynn Vivian Art Gallery or Plantasia Tropical Zoo - 7:15 PM – 9:00 PM: Dinner at The Gower
What is the most visited place in Swansea?
The most visited place in Swansea is Swansea Bay, a stunning coastal area that stretches from the city centre to the picturesque village of Mumbles. With its long sandy beaches, scenic promenade, and breathtaking views of the Gower Peninsula, Swansea Bay attracts both locals and tourists year-round.
What is Swansea city famous for?
Swansea is famous for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and local charm; Swansea stands out as a dynamic and attractive city in Wales.
- Beautiful Coastline
- Dylan Thomas
- Swansea Market
- Swansea City Football Club
- National Waterfront Museum
- Swansea University
