Mumbles sits in amajestic position on the western tip of Swansea Bayand has been the favoured holiday resort of the area since early in the 19thCentury, when passengers began arriving on what was then the brand new steamrailway. As well as being a stunning destination in its own right, it marks thegateway to the Gower Peninsula, a part of Wales which, in 1956, became theUnited Kingdom’s first official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
History inMumbles
All around Mumbles arethe signs this is a place that has been attracting visitors looking for seasidefun for many years. You can stroll along the traditional sea front promenadeand enjoy some home-made Italian ice cream, or Gelato, as it is known, beforeexploring the traditional Victorian pier or admiring the lighthouse that wasbuilt in 1794.
The most historically impressive part of Mumbles,however, is Oystermouth Castle, which sits on a hill overlooking the seafrontand offering stunning views of Swansea Bay. The structure itself dates back tothe 12th Century and has recently been restored, allowing visitorsto safely explore its nooks and crannies and marvel over sights such asgraffiti from the 14th Century.
Shopping inMumbles
Newton Road is the heart of Mumblesshopping experience, offering a selection of independent traders providingdesigner clothes, handmade goods and arts and crafts. This is the place wherethe history and tradition of Mumbles mixes withits cosmopolitan modernity, and when the shopping gets a little too exhaustingsimply pop into Oystermouth arcade for a sit down and a coffee. On the secondSaturday in every month the Mumbles Produce Marketoffers the chance to stock up on delicious artisan food and deli style treatsfrom around the world.
Beaches inMumbles
Those looking for a beach holiday have made the idealchoice in Mumbles, since its position on aheadland means that there are several beautiful and contrasting beaches withineasy walking distance. The sweeping arcs of Bracelet Bay and Limeslade offersea views and seclusion, whilst, a little further up the coast, LanglandBay is one of the UK’s leading surfing beaches. A wide sandybeach accessible on foot and lined with iconic stripy beach huts, it is theideal spot for families as well as hard core surfers, being served by outdoorshowers, public toilets, the St John Ambulance service and a lifeguard duringhigh season.
Food and Drink
Anyone wanting to eat out in Mumblesis spoilt for choice, whether they’re looking for a snack during the day or a fullblown gastronomic treat in the evening. The key word is ‘freshness’, withseafood arriving straight off the boat and onto the plate, and produce grown inthe countryside used to create delicious hand cooked treats. Many of the finestcafes and restaurants sit in positions which provide stunning views to soak upat the same time as you’re enjoying the food on offer.
Things to Do
Although Mumblesitself offers more than enough sites of interest for the average visitor, gettingthe most out of a visit means taking one of the local sightseeing boat toursand exploring the surrounding waters, getting up close to the seals anddolphins that swim here and learning about smugglers coves andshipwrecks.
From traditional seaside fun to designer shopping, andhistorical buildings to home-made ice cream, Mumblesoffers something for everyone and fun for all.
