Swansea Area Guide

Swansea, Swansea

Exceptional4.6

Living in

Swansea is a city on the south coast of Wales that offers city convenience alongside access to some of the most beautiful countryside in the UK. The Gower Peninsula was named the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1956, and the landscape is as stunning today as it was then. In addition to beautiful scenery, there’s an array of cultural, shopping, and entertainment venues ranging from cinemas, museums, and theatres to bars, pubs, and clubs. Housing in Swansea is relatively affordable and varies to include new student flats as well as period-family homes. Though Swansea’s legacy is entwined with that of the copper industry, there is now a focus on other things, such as the Universities, the DVLA, and other major brands which make up the city's economy. 

Ratings

Exceptional4.6

Community

Wales is generally thought to be a friendly place, and Swansea is no exception. Although, the transient student population and the number of holiday homes in the general area can be less than ideal for a sense of community and more like a tourist hotspot. The top attractions in Swansea consist of the Gower Peninsula, Three Cliffs Bay, The Mumbles, Clyne Gardens, and Swansea Market. Other fun entertainment options include Swansea Grand Theatre, Quadrant Shopping Centre, and Plantasia Zoo, so there really is something available to all.

Safety

Swansea has been named amongst the top 10 most unsafe areas within West Glamorgan, with a 9% higher crime rate than the rest of Wales and a 7% higher crime rate than the England, Wales & Northern Ireland overall figure.

Parking

Parking in Swansea is about average for a city of its size. Just 26% of households have no car or van. Road connections are good, including the A48 to Neath, Port Talbot, and Cardiff, and the M4 to London. JustPark, Parkopedia, and Yourparkingspace, each offer a wide choice of private parking vendors for hourly, daily, or monthly secure parking, as well as regular car parks around the city.

Nightlife

With a significant student population, Swansea has a range of nightlife options, including restaurants, bars, pubs, and nightclubs. You’ll also find a good selection of theatres and cinemas. Some popular venues to attend are Bambu Beach Bar, Peppermint, Savana, and No Sign Wine Bar. Residents can also head to the nearby locations of Cardiff, Gloucester, and Cheltenham if they are looking for a change of scenery. 

Family Friendly

Swansea is a good place to look for a family home, with affordable house prices and a range of property styles that include plenty of semis, terraces, and other properties that can house a family. Within Swansea is a good supply of green and open space. Swansea Bay is lovely, and there are parks and playing fields, including Singleton Park and Cwmdonkin Park, among many others. The scenery in its surroundings is outstanding, the Gower Peninsula was designated the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Rolling grassland and woodland are found inland from these stunning beaches, and there are miles upon miles of stunning footpaths, bike trails, and bridleways to explore.  There are many renowned schools in the area, and there are many options including Welsh medium schools. 

Pet Friendly

Property in Swansea varies but includes plenty of homes that would be suitable for pets, ranging from flats to villas. Within Swansea is a good supply of green and open space. Swansea Bay is lovely, and there are parks and playing fields, including Singleton Park and Cwmdonkin Park, among many others. The scenery in its surroundings is outstanding and the Gower Peninsula was designated the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Rolling grassland and woodland are found inland from these stunning beaches, and there are miles upon miles of stunning footpaths, bike trails, and bridleways to explore. 

Transport

Swansea is served by its own railway station, which connects residents to the likes of Cardiff- 53m, Newport- 1hr 9m, Gloucester- 2hrs 19m, and London Paddington- 3hrs 50m, along with surrounding small towns. Getting around the city is easy, with plenty of local buses and taxis, plus road connections are good, with the A48 to Neath, Port Talbot, and Cardiff, and the M4 to London. Cardiff Airport is the closest airport for Swansea residents and can be reached in 1hr 8m by car via the M4.