Popular Swansea Tourist Attractions for Families
As the second largest city in Wales, Swansea is home to a whole host of popular tourist attractions for families. From stunning beaches to historic castles and thriving nature reserves, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this corner of the world.
Read on to discover a multitude of things to do on your family day out in Swansea.
1 – Three Cliffs Bay
Three Cliffs Bay is a must-see beach in Swansea for families and their pets to explore. With sand dunes, salt marshes and three signature limestone cliffs, which give the place its name, this is one of the most photogenic beaches in Wales.
Enjoy a picnic on the sand or explore the beauty of this area by taking a walk along the scenic Gower Coast Path. Routes lead North to Pennard Burrows, East to Pobbles and West to Tor Bay. And at low tide, you can access Pobbles and Tor Bay directly from the beach.
2 – Gower Coast Adventures
For families who love immersing themselves in nature, this has got to be one of the best attractions in Swansea.
Discover all kinds of wildlife and learn about hidden coves on a guided boat trip along the region’s beautiful coastline, with Gower Coast Adventures. The most popular trip is a 2-hour sail from Oxwich Bay to Worms Head and back, with lots of opportunities for animal encounters.
Who knows what you’ll spot first? Experience dolphins or porpoises swimming beside the boat, seals basking on the rocks and sea birds taking off from the water below.
3 – The Gower Peninsula
Not a fan of boats? The Gower Peninsula offers rugged clifftop walks with miles of sandy beaches, so you can experience this beautiful coastline while keeping your feet firmly on dry land.
As well as Three Cliffs Bay, there are many more gems along this route. Rhossili Bay Beach for example, is regularly listed as one of the best beaches in the world, thanks to its three miles of golden sand and magnificent cliffs. With sand dunes, stunning views from above and even a 19th century shipwreck, there’s plenty to see here!
Caswell and Langland are also great for families, with parking, toilets, ice cream booths and gift shops. And if you fancy some wild swimming, Blue Pool Bay is a natural tidal plunge-pool that offers a refreshing swim in natural surroundings.
4 – Clyne Gardens
Clyne Gardens are Swansea’s stunning botanical gardens. With a bluebell wood, Japanese bridge, bog garden, Italian bridge, wildflower meadow, azalea gardens, Clyne chapel and a viewing tower, this is a truly special place to visit.
Immerse yourself in the calming abundance of nature, while exploring the sights with your children. The park also a picnic area and toilets, as well as a café nearby.
5 – Oystermouth Castle
There are many reasons to visit Oystermouth Castle, on your family day out in Swansea. Dating back to the 12th century, this attraction is perfect for those seeking a dose of history and culture.
You’ll find Oystermouth Castle located on the hill in the seaside village of Mumbles. Explore hidden staircases leading from vaults to banqueting halls and spot ancient graffiti art from the 14th century.
Once at the top, you’ll get to enjoy spectacular views over Swansea Bay, or walk the 30-foot high glass bridge if you’re brave enough!
6 – Mumbles Hill Local Nature Reserve
Mumbles Hill Local Nature Reserve is a haven for bird watchers, wildlife lovers and anyone looking to escape the daily grind for a while.
With hundreds of bird species, plant, butterfly, bee and bug species, the 23 hectares of Mumbles Hill has plenty of wildlife to discover. Woodpeckers, jays and skylarks, and migratory birds like swallows and house martins, all call this reserve home.
The tranquil surroundings and views over Swansea Bay, offer a relaxing day out for families of all ages.
7 – Mumbles Pier
Built in 1898, Mumbles Pier is one of Swansea’s oldest tourist attractions. This Victorian pier measures 835 feet and boasts an amusement arcade, bowling alleys, a Beach Hut Café, gift shops and an art gallery. There’s also a private beach with wonderful views of the lighthouse and bay.
A wander along Mumbles Pier provides plenty of opportunities for some family fun and entry is free.
8 – The LC
The LC is a popular visitor attraction in Swansea that packs tonnes of fun for both kids and adults. The leisure complex is home to The Edge, Wales’ largest indoor waterpark. With pools, rides, slides, a wave pool, lazy river and volcano slide, there’s something to keep everyone entertained.
Want to let off some steam in the gym? The LC’s gym has over 180 Technogym stations. There’s also an indoor climbing wall and sports courts, an interactive play area for children and a Spa for relaxing after you’re done with your activities.
9 – Plantasia Swansea
Plantasia Swansea is a tropical oasis of plants and animals. Discover monkeys, chameleons, parakeets, reptiles, snakes, fish and insects, alongside cacti, bamboo and pineapple plants.
Delve into another culture in the Rainforest Hut, featuring hammocks, musical instruments, a fire pit and spirit masks. Enjoy an educational greenhouse walk along the Hot House Trail. And finally, experience different environments in the arid and tropical climate houses.
10 – Dylan Thomas Birthplace
Voted the Best Small Attraction in Swansea Bay 2019, the Dylan Thomas Birthplace is a tourist attraction you’ll want to explore if you love a bit of history and literature.
Visit the family home of Dylan Thomas, his birthplace and where he wrote two thirds of his published work. Step back in time to the Edwardian Era and experience what life was like here for Dylan Thomas.
The house is open for guided tours daily from 10.30am to 4.30pm and there’s also the option to stay at the museum overnight!
Need some more inspiration for your trip? Browse our unique holiday ideas and places to stay in Wales, or explore more of what Swansea has to offer on our destinations page.
