Day 29 Thursday May 8
Caught the bus into Swansea this morning. Decided to head to Swansea Markets, that blasted gps has a wicked sense of humour! Had us walking around in circles to then find out the markets were right under our nose!
The markets are undercover with glass ceilings. They were opened in 1897. Its roof was the largest structure of glass and ironwork at that time in the UK. However on 19,20,21 February 1941 the bombing of Swansea by the Luftwaffe in WW2, culminated in three nights of devastation.
The centre of Swansea was turned from bustling streets to a pile of rubble and Swansea market had its lavish glass roof shattered and much of its interior destroyed.
Lots of meat, seafood, bakeries and crafts! Reminded us a bit of the Victoria markets in Melbourne.
On up to the ruins of Swansea Castle, ruins right in the centre of town. It was first built in 1106. Through battles, marriages of convenience and devious alliances the Lords of Gower built the current castle around 1290.
Went for walk to the Dylan Thomas Centre. He is a famous Welsh poet. I must admit I got confused and thought they meant Bob Dylan! They have built this massive centre to honour him. He died when he was only 39 of encephalitis! Interesting place.
Dylan Thomas Centre
Wandered around the harbour and watched a trawler head out through the locks. Walked across the new Oystermouth Road bridge.
Back on the bus to our accommodation to pick up the car and head to the Gower Peninsula. An area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Stopped at the following parts of the peninsula
The Mumbles
Three Cliffs Bay
Oxwich Bay
Bob Dylan did change his surname to Dylan in honour of Dylan Thomas, so you weren’t too far wrong! I suppose you couldn’t understand anything Gary said while you were at The Mumbles?? Interesting bus on the canal too!!??
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