🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 Wales Trip Day 1: Swansea

The fastest train from London Paddington to Swansea takes just under 3 hours. While most Wales trips start in Cardiff, I've been there before—so this time, I headed straight to Swansea. Overall, it's a laid-back little city perfect for slow living, daydreaming, and soaking up the sun. ☀️ ❤️ Glynn Vivian Art Gallery (SA1 5DZ) Just a 4-minute walk from Swansea train station, this gallery makes a great first stop. Closed on Mondays! ❤️ Swansea Castle (SA1 1DW) Now in ruins, the castle is worth a quick walkaround and photo op. Nearby, there’s also a church and a zoo (SA1 2AL)—great for families! ❤️ Swansea Museum (SA1 1SN) The oldest museum in Wales! A must-visit: Ground floor: Photo exhibitions on Swansea’s history. First floor: A wildlife gallery with animal specimens + a mini Egyptian room (yes, with a mummy!). Also features a statue of Dr. Griffith John (donated by Wuhan Union Hospital) in honor of the Welsh missionary. ❤️ Dylan Thomas Centre (SA1 1RR) A small museum dedicated to the Welsh poet Dylan Thomas, recommended by a lovely staffer at Swansea Museum. Very family-friendly—great if you're traveling with kids! ❤️ The National Waterfront Museum (SA1 3RD) Showcases Wales’ industrial innovations. Also family-friendly—when I visited, they were hosting an Easter event packed with kids! ❤️ Swansea Bay The perfect spot to lounge on a bench, nap, and soak up the sun—especially on a rare sunny UK day! 🌊☀️ If the weather’s nice, don’t miss this chance to relax by the sea. #UKLife #OffTheBeatenPath #DayTrip #EasterTravel #Swansea #WalesTravel #ExploreBritain