Five Places to Visit in Swansea that are Part of its Unique Heritage

Swansea is a city that grew mostly during the time of the coal mines. Of course these are all now closed down, and new industries have come up in their place that are a part of our modern world such as this SEO Swansea based company accent-adc. But Swansea has a rich and interesting history which goes back before the coal mines and modern city that you see today. Here are some of Swansea’s most important historical places…

Oystermouth Castle – This beautiful stone castle dates back to Norman times. It was built in the 12^th Century and has been an iconic landmark in the area since then. The views from the castle, which is high up on a hill top are beautiful – looking out over Swansea bay. Visitors to the castle can also enjoy exhibitions and events which are regularly held at the castle as well as the historic architecture.

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Dylan Thomas House and Centre – Swansea’s most famous resident, the esteemed poet Dylan Thomas has a centre that visitors can go to in order to learn more about the poet’s life and work, as well as his house, at number 5 Cwmdonkin Drive. Take a tour of the house which has been restored and get closer to the great poet himself.

Hafod-Morfa Copperworks – As well as coal another of the big industries in Swansea was copper. In fact Swansea supplied copper not just to the UK but was actually responsible for producing half of the copper in the whole world! In the days of the industrial revolution there were 11 copper works in Swansea. The Hafod Morfa copperworks are now an educational visitors centre, and it is a fascinating look at how the copper was produced here.

Penllergare Valley Woods – This beautiful area of woodland was created in the 19^th Century by local man and horticulturalist John Dillwyn Llewelyn as part of his own private estate. It is now a protected area that people can come and enjoy. A walk through the many trees, as well as the waterfall and lakes that make this a magical place to spend time relaxing. Head to the woodlands in May to see the stunning bluebell display, or in the autumn as the leaves start to change colour and put on a display.

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Mumbles Lighthouse – Looking out over the gorgeous Swansea bay area, this lighthouse has stood here for over 2 centuries, as it helps to guide ships away from the hazardous rocks in the area. When it was first built it was run off just 2 coal fires which would be used to alert any ships in the area. Nowadays it is still in use, but used environmentally friendly solar powered lighting. To walk to the lighthouse, you will need to go when it is low tide as this is the only time that it is accessible.