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Stop 1 - Maritime QuarterThe spectacular 5 mile prom certainly begins in style in an area packed with superb attractions.
Wander around the Maritime Quarter and take in some of Swansea's proud heritage. Start by familiarising yourself with the life and works of the city's most famous son...Dylan Thomas. The Dylan Thomas Centre (1) , formerly the Guildhall, houses the permanent 'Man and Myth' exhibition, based on the largest collection of Dylan Thomas memorabilia in the world. The centre also regularly hosts events, films and talks. Walk a few yards around the corner and you will find two of Swansea's most intriguing Museums: Swansea Museum and the National Waterfront Museum. Swansea Museum (2), the oldest museum in Wales (built in 1884), is a real treasure trove containing all kinds of historical artefacts from Swansea, Wales and all over the world ranging from an Egyptian mummy to a traditional Welsh kitchen. It is easily recognisable by its neo-classical style and impressive columned frontage. The National Waterfront Museum (3) tells the story of industry and innovation in Wales and Swansea over the last 300 years through interactive exhibits and more traditional displays. The collections on display include maritime, transport, technology and retail artifacts. If you fancy some fun and adventure then head to the LC (4). The LC leisure comlex contains an indoor water park with a variety of pools and slides, a 30ft climbing wall and an indoor children's play area. It also contains the Boardrider, the world's first deep water standing wave machine. Make your way through the marina towards the sea and you will come on to the promenade itself. From here you will see the prom snaking towards Mumbles. Head west and you will come across the Civic Centre (5) . Here you will find the state-of-the-art Library (5) with thousands of books for you to discover as well as host of regular events. You can even delve into your family tree in the Family History Centre (5) or explore the maritime and industrial history of the city at the West Glamorgan Archive Service (5). As you leave the maritime quarter and head towards Mumbles you will pass Victoria Park (6) , a beautiful urban park renowned for its striking bedding flowers, herbaceous borders and the Patti Pavillion, donated to the people of Swansea by Dame Adelina Patti. Victoria Park is also home to a bowling green, tennis courts, skate ramp and a children's play area. Also in the vicinity...Mission Gallery (7) and Attic Gallery (7) – get a taste of Swansea's contemporary art scene. Dylan Thomas Theatre (7) – take a look at the unique illustrated panels and discover more about Dylan Thomas's time as an actor with the Swansea Little Theatre. This is also Swansea's only waterside theatre. Tram shed (8) - containing memorabilia from the street trams of Swansea and the world famous Mumbles Train. Floating Exhibits (8) - Lightship 91, known as 'Helwick', a tug boat called 'Canning' and the 'Olga', a Bristol Channel Pilot Cutter. The 'Olga' is an important and rare survivor from a past time and is listed on the National Historic Ships Committee Core Collection list. Swansea Marina (8) - a flotilla of boats, quirky cafes and great restaurants. Swansea Bay (9) - enjoy a walk or fly akite on this fabulous stretch of beach. Swansea Watersports and Gower Kite Surfers - enjoy a full range of watersport activities in and around the Bay.
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This page last updated on July 5 2010