I liked the name of the town and I must say the town does reflect certain quietness in an in-distinctive but fascinating way. I have always admired the small towns and villages surrounding the big cities and I think they offer a much closer look to the culture and the overlooked history.
Mumbles is located 4.7 miles away from the Swansea City Center and is accessible via public transport. It would cost you £4.40 for a return journey from Swansea. Public transport would take around 25 minutes to deliver you to the Victorian seaside village and by car you can be there in around 13 minutes depending upon the traffic. Alternatively you can cycle or even walk to Mumbles if time permits and if your heart longs to enjoy the Swansea coastline.
First thing you would notice upon reaching the center of the town is the Oystermouth castle sitting inactively on the top of a hill keeping a watchful eye on the town and its inhabitants. The view from top of the hill is magnificent. You can sit on a tree trunk carved into a bench and enjoy the view or read a book or even ponder about the times this old town had to endure. The castle was built during the early years of the 12th century by Normans and had seen many Welsh and English rulers come and go. The admission price to the castle in only £2.50 for an adult and castle is only open to the public during months of April to September.
Walking down the hill from the castle towards the sea front you will find small shops selling fish both cooked and raw.
The sea front is housed by boats of various kinds and sizes which give mixed impression of exhaustion of sea travel and an urge to be back in cold unsettling waters. Even in a cold month like February you will find brave hearts taking on sailing in the icy waters and a few trying their hands on surfing.
A further walk down the road you will reach the Mumbles Pier which has few restaurants and cafés to feed hungry souls and thirsty minds both with the view and the food. The town has large variety of restaurants to suite different tastes. If you intend to spend a night in Mumbles then you will find many local B&Bs all over the town. However I would recommend lodging in the Swansea city and accessing the surrounding scenic towns and villages from there. Upon taking a walk in the narrow streets of the town you will find yourself among colorful rows of fisherman’s cottages.
From the Mumbles Pier you can take Gower’s sightseeing boats towards Oxwich Bay or Worm’s Head and look for Dolphins, Porpoises and Seals. From the Mumbles Pier, 500 yards into the sea is located Mumbles Lighthouse acting as a navigational landmark delivering caution to the ships to adjust their direction if astray. However access to the light house is a bit tricky and unsafe at times. Best advice would be to consult the local authorities at the Mumbles Pier before embarking on a journey to the lighthouse.
To conclude my experience of Mumbles I shall speak loudly to encourage fellow travelers to visit this old town and soak in the attractions and the scenery it has to offer.
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