Prized native Dylan Thomas called Swansea "an ugly, lovely town," but now armed with an award-winning marina, maritime quarter and regional shopping centre, the emphasis on the 'ugly' is shifting. Called the City by the Sea, vibrant Swansea is located on the Gowar Peninsular, which was in fact the UK's first designated area of outstanding natural beauty.
Much of Swansea's architectural heritage was blitzed in World War II, meaning that Swansea's cityscape has an overall modern look to it. Despite this, it is still possible to stumble across parts that retain an older feel, of which Wind Street is one. Swansea is within walking distance of the five mile sweep of Swansea Bay, home to the quaint Victorian seaside resort of Mumbles and Gower, offering clean, stunning beaches.
- Take a coach trip to Swansea to dig around the largest indoor market in Wales and sample some traditional cockles, laverbread and Welsh cakes.