Mumbles is the headland on the western edge of Swansea Bay, South Wales. As well as being a pretty little seaside town with cafes, ice cream parlours, a Victorian pier and great views. Mumbles is also known as the Gateway to the Gower peninsula.
Mumbles
Getting to Mumbles is fairly easy from Swansea although the coast road does get busy during peak periods. Also, Swansea does like a traffic light or two. There is a frequent daily bus service from Swansea town centre and there is a pedestrian and cycle path around the bay.
Well, what about the unusual name, “Mumbles”. One theory is that the name derives from the French les mamelles, meaning “the breasts”. Possibly, visiting French sailors looking at the shape of the two islands making up the headland. Maybe, after being at sea for months anything reminds you of breasts!
We are in Wales so there has to be a castle nearby and Mumbles is no exception. Oystermouth Castle, a Norman castle dating from the 12th century, has a stunning view over Swansea Bay and the village of Mumbles.
Mumbles Pier And Lifeboat Station
Mumbles Pier dates from 1898, it was originally the terminus of the old Mumbles Railway. It is also home to the Mumbles lifeboat, the old station dating from the 1920s and its replacement opened in 2014. It is currently open to the public as its renovation continues.
From Mumbles, it is only a short walk over the headland and past Mumbles lighthouse to Bracelet Bay and the start of the Gower. Bracelet Bay does have a large pay and display car park.
Mumbles To Langland Bay And Caswell Bay
The Gower Coast Path is part of the larger Wales Coast Path. The route takes you from Mumbles and Bracelet Bay, through Limslade and along the cliffs to Langland Bay.
The sheltered beach at Langland Bay is a popular spot for surfers. The beach is lined with traditional beach huts and there are several cafes. Overlooking Langland Bay is the old Scottish Baronial style, Langland Bay Hotel (now apartments). It was originally built as a summer residence for Henry Crawshay, the Victorian ironmaster.
Continuing along the cliff-top coast path you reach Caswell Bay. This is another blue flag beach with plenty of sand and rockpools for the kids. It is also home to the world’s first fully adaptive surf centre, Surfability UK.
Continuing The Gower Coast Path
The length of the Gower Coast Path from Mumbles To Crofty is about 38 miles, so after Caswell Bay, there is still a lot more to explore. The path continues to Three Cliffs Bay and Oxwich Bay around the peninsula to Rhosilli and Whiteford Sands.
Exploring the Gower peninsula is just one of the many things to do in South Wales and most don’t involve spending much money. To find out more, take a look at our favourite 5 Free Things To Do in South Wales.
