Community Rail Awards 2024
© Hawlfraint y Goron / Crown Copyright
The anticipation is building as we eagerly await the Community Rail Awards 2024 taking place at Swansea Arena, Monday 18th March 2024.
With the city’s vibrant atmosphere as a backdrop, the awards promise to be a memorable affair, honoring those who work tirelessly to enhance local rail connections. As the date approaches, we’re excited to offer a comprehensive guide to the area’s top attractions and activities. From exploring the picturesque Swansea Bay and its inviting beaches to discovering the rich maritime heritage at the National Waterfront Museum, attendees will have ample opportunities to immerse themselves in the unique charm of Swansea. The Mumbles, a quaint fishing village, is perfect for a leisurely stroll along the pier and indulging in delicious seafood. For art enthusiasts, the Glynn Vivian Art Gallery houses captivating exhibitions.
As we await the grand event, South West Wales Connected has curated a selection of activities, culinary delights, and beverages to elevate your experience while staying in Swansea. We’re excited to extend a warm welcome to all who will be attending the Community Rail Awards!
Explore Swansea
© Hawlfraint y Goron / Crown Copyright
Rhossili Bay
Rhossili Bay is a fantastic beach in Swansea that’s worth a visit. It’s found on the Gower Peninsula and has stunning features like wide sandy shores, tall cliffs, and a beautiful sea. It’s one of the most scenic places in the UK, and many come from all over to see it. Whether you want to relax on the beach, go for a walk, or enjoy the sea, Rhossili Bay is a special place that shows off Swansea’s natural beauty.
© Hawlfraint y Goron / Crown Copyright
Explore Mumbles
Mumbles is a charming village very close Swansea and offers a delightful coastal escape perfect for a relaxed day out. With its stunning seaside views, Mumbles beckons visitors to explore its quaint streets and iconic pier. Stroll along the promenade, explore the many independent shops, enjoy a taste of fresh seafood, or simply bask in the beauty of the coastline.
© Visit Swansea Bay
Dylan Thomas Centre
Located near Swansea Marina, the Dylan Thomas Centre celebrates the life and works of Dylan Thomas, providing a captivating space for exploration and inspiration. Immerse yourself in his creative legacy through interactive exhibits, original manuscripts, and engaging displays that offer insight into his literary genius.
© Hawlfraint y Goron / Crown Copyright
National Waterfront Museum
When you visit Swansea’s National Waterfront Museum, you’ll step into Wales’ captivating industrial and maritime past. Nestled along the picturesque waterfront, the museum blends the past with the present, offering a collection of interactive exhibits and historical artifacts that transport visitors through time. The National Waterfront Museum promises an insightful journey into the heart of Swansea’s rich past.
© Martin Bodman / Swansea: Clyne Gardens / CC BY-SA 2.0
Clyne Gardens
Clyne Gardens offers a harmonious blend of beauty and serenity in the heart of Swansea and is a perfect escape for nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat. Located to the west of Swansea between the City Centre and Mumbles, the gardens feature a diverse collection of plants and flowers from around the world
© Plantasia Tropical Zoo
Plantasia Tropical Zoo
Located in Parc Tawe, close to Swansea Arena, Plantasia Tropical Zoo offers a rich range of Within the living rain forest, are over 40 species of animal to meet, including crocodiles, meerkats, monkeys, leopard cats, and many more. There’s something at Plantasia to appeal to all. Pre-booking is advised.
Food & Drink in Swansea
© Swansea Market
Swansea Market
Whether you’re a food enthusiast seeking unique flavors or simply looking to grab a quick, delicious bite, Swansea Market promises to provide a diverse range of options. From traditional Welsh produce like laverbread and cockles to freshly baked goods, there’s something for everyone at Wales’ largest indoor market.
© Kardomah Cafe
Kardomah Cafe
Kardomah Cafe, located in the heart of the City Centre, is a beloved fixture in Swansea with nearly 50 years of providing excellent food and coffee. As an independent and family-run business, it has carved out its own special place in Swansea.
© Verdi’s Swansea
Verdi’s
Nestled along the picturesque seafront of Mumbles near the City Centre, Verdi’s is a cherished family-run establishment renowned for its authentic Italian flavors and exceptional quality. What sets Verdi’s apart is not just its delectable offerings, but also the sweeping panoramic views across Swansea Bay that greet every guest.
© The Secret
The Secret Beach Bar & Kitchen
Located on Swansea’s stunning beachfront, The Secret Beach Bar & Kitchen offers a specially curated range of authentic Welsh and modern British restaurant menus. For those who prefer to grab & go, there’s a Secret takeaway unit stationed outside the venue, so you can enjoy as you walk along Swansea Bay’s seafront.
© Visit Swansea Bay
Jam Jar
Located in the heart of Swansea’s creative quarter on High Street, Jam Jar is a vibrant lounge bar & kitchen offering a wide variety of cocktails, coffees and meals to enjoy while enjoying great entertainment by night, including quiz nights, stand-up comedy and live music.
© Brewstone
Brewstone
Nestled in the vibrant Uplands area of Swansea, BrewStone is an independent day and night venue. From the early hours, this establishment comes to life, offering a delectable range of dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients and prepared in an authentic wood-fire oven. Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast or a flavorful dinner, BrewStone’s menu showcases a diverse and creative array of options.
Walking in Swansea
Swansea boasts a variety of captivating walking trails that allow you to immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty. From the scenic stretches of the Gower Peninsula to the tranquil paths along Swansea Bay, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re an avid hiker or seeking a leisurely walk, Swansea’s diverse walking trails offer an opportunity to connect with nature and discover the region’s stunning landscapes. We have a number of Swansea walks on our walk section, while you can find a wealth of walks and activities on the following websites:
Explore the Wider Region
If you’re extending your stay, be sure to uncover the broader Swansea Bay region. Embrace the opportunity to journey beyond and discover the treasures of Neath Port Talbot, Carmarthenshire, and Pembrokeshire! From the lush mountains of Carmarthenshire to the coastal allure of Pembrokeshire, each county along the South West Wales Connected network has something to offer. Clicking on the images below will take you to their respective tourism websites, where you can find many activities to enjoy.
Heart of Wales Line
Connect at Swansea and travel on the scenic Heart of Wales Line where each station is a gateway to a community. The line runs through the glorious countryside of mid-Wales all the way to the historic market town of Shrewsbury where you can make your connections for your onward journey.
There are many places to alight and extend your stay in Wales. The market towns of Ammanford, Llandeilo and Llandovery are scattered with an array of small independent shops offering fashionable clothing including designer labels, bespoke furniture, award winning local food suppliers, local crafts and much more.
Visit the old “Spa Towns” of Llanwrtyd (home to the World Alternative Games like Bog Snorkelling and famous for being the smallest town in Britain), Llangammarch, Builth and Llandrindod Wells where people travelled specially to bathe in and drink the healing waters, rich with minerals from the hills.
Whichever village or town you choose to visit along the Heart of Wales Line you will most certainly be offered a warm, Welsh welcome, croeso!
For more information, please visit the Heart of Wales Line website: https://www.heart-of-wales.co.uk/