Clyne Gardens: A Botanical Sanctuary in Swansea
Discover Clyne Gardens, Swansea’s historic botanical haven with rare plants, scenic views, and tranquil parkland open year-round.
Clyne Gardens is a renowned botanical park located in Mayals, Swansea, celebrated for its extensive collections of rhododendrons, azaleas, and rare plant species. Spanning beautiful parkland with historic features like the Japanese Bridge and Admiral’s Tower, the gardens offer year-round tranquility, scenic views, and diverse flora, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Clyne Gardens
- Swansea, Mayals, SA3 5BW, GB
- +441792401737
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit in May to experience the spectacular bloom of rhododendrons and azaleas.
- Park at the Woodman Pub and enjoy refreshments there; parking is limited and requires registration if dining.
- Wear comfortable shoes as some paths are steep and include steps; main tarmacked paths are more accessible.
- Bring a camera for scenic vistas over Swansea Bay and abundant wildlife photography opportunities.
- Check the Friends of Clyne Gardens website for seasonal events like the Fungi Festival and live music days.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
From Swansea Quadrant bus station, take buses 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 14, 14A, or 37 towards Mumbles. Get off at the Woodman Pub stop near the main entrance. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently throughout the day with standard fare around £2-£3.
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Car
Drive west from Swansea city centre along Oystermouth Road (A4067). Turn right at the Woodman Pub into the car park. Limited parking is available, including disabled spaces. Parking is free but requires registration if dining at the pub. Additional on-road parking is available at Westport Avenue off Mayals Road.
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Walking
From the Blackpill area, it takes about 20-30 minutes to walk to Clyne Gardens via local footpaths. The terrain includes some steep sections and steps, so it may not be suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
Clyne Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Clyne Gardens
A Living Legacy of Botanical Excellence
Clyne Gardens is a specialist botanical park nestled between Swansea city centre and the coastal village of Mumbles. Established on an estate with roots tracing back to the 11th century, the gardens were profoundly shaped by Algernon ‘The Admiral’ Vivian in the early 20th century. His passion for plant collecting led to expeditions around the world, enriching the gardens with rare rhododendrons and azaleas that still bear their original collector’s numbers. The Admiral’s influence is evident throughout the landscape, from the Japanese Bridge and Italian Bridge to the Admiral’s Tower and Gazebo, all blending history with horticultural splendor.Enchanting Natural Features and Plant Collections
The gardens boast over 10,000 trees and more than 2,000 plant species, including Britain’s tallest recorded Magnolia campbellii var. alba. Visitors can explore diverse habitats such as the bog garden, bluebell wood, heather beds, and wildflower meadows. The oak woodland is a remnant of the historic Clyne Forest, adding an ancient dimension to the park’s natural beauty. Seasonal highlights include spectacular rhododendron and azalea displays in spring, complemented by year-round blooms and vibrant foliage.Visitor Experience and Facilities
Open 24/7 with free entry, Clyne Gardens is a haven for dog walkers, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat. The main entrance near the Woodman Pub offers parking, including disabled spaces, and toilet facilities with disabled access are available within the park. A portable tea and coffee outlet near the Blackpill entrance serves refreshments and treats for both visitors and their canine companions. The gardens feature winding paths, some steep and stepped, which may challenge non-motorized wheelchairs and pushchairs, but the main tarmacked path provides accessible routes.Community and Events
Clyne Gardens is actively supported by the Friends of Clyne group, who organize events such as the annual Fungi Festival and August Bank Holiday celebrations featuring live music and family activities. These events foster community engagement and highlight the gardens’ role as a cultural as well as natural landmark. The gardens also commemorate local history with features like small dogs’ graves and Joy Cottage, adding layers of personal stories to the landscape.Scenic Vistas and Wildlife
From vantage points within the gardens, visitors can enjoy sweeping views over Swansea Bay and the Gower Peninsula. The varied habitats support diverse wildlife, including birds, insects, and fungi, making it an excellent spot for nature observation and photography. The tranquil atmosphere is enhanced by the gentle sounds of rustling leaves and birdcalls, inviting mindfulness and relaxation.Historical Significance and Architectural Highlights
The estate’s history is intertwined with notable visitors such as the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII), Neville Chamberlain, and Stanley Baldwin, who were guests at Clyne Castle. The gardens’ architectural features, including the Japanese and Italian bridges and the Admiral’s Tower, reflect a blend of cultural influences and the personal tastes of their creators. These elements enrich the visitor experience by connecting horticulture with heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Glamorgan History Society
2.0 km
Explore Glamorgan’s rich history through dedicated research, publications, and community events at the heart of Swansea’s heritage.
Delta Hotels Swansea
4.5 km
Stylish waterfront hotel in Swansea’s Maritime Quarter with modern comforts, stunning bay views, and versatile event spaces.
Cwtsh Hostel
5.0 km
Modern, friendly, and centrally located hostel offering comfortable stays and social spaces in the vibrant heart of Swansea.
Premier Inn Swansea City Centre hotel
5.1 km
Comfortable city-centre hotel on vibrant Wind Street, with spacious rooms, tasty dining, and easy access to Swansea’s cultural and coastal highlights.
Cathedral Church of Saint Joseph (Eglwys Gadeirlan Siôseff Sant)
5.8 km
A majestic Gothic Revival cathedral in Swansea, symbolizing faith, history, and community since 1888.
Premier Inn Swansea Waterfront hotel
5.8 km
Modern comfort and scenic marina views combine at Premier Inn Swansea Waterfront, your gateway to Swansea’s vibrant coastal charm.
Tours of Wales
14.3 km
Discover Wales’ rich history and stunning landscapes on small-group, expertly guided day tours with Tours of Wales.
Gorsedd Circle
15.5 km
A modern stone circle in Llanelli celebrating Welsh culture, poetry, and the spirit of the National Eisteddfod.
Whiteford Lighthouse
18.2 km
A rare cast-iron lighthouse standing in the tidal estuary of the Gower Peninsula, reachable only at low tide across vast sands and saltmarsh.
Rhossili Downs
19.2 km
Experience breathtaking coastal panoramas and ancient heritage atop the highest point of Wales' Gower Peninsula.
Y Bwlwarcau
22.5 km
Explore Y Bwlwarcau, a serene Iron Age hillfort nestled on Mynydd Margam’s slopes, revealing ancient Welsh heritage amidst tranquil countryside.
The Baltic Inn & Restaurant
23.6 km
A welcoming countryside inn in Pontyates offering cozy rooms, hearty dining, and a peaceful Welsh village atmosphere.
Dyfed Menswear
24.0 km
Explore Llanelli with ease at Dyfed Menswear, a central bus stop connecting you to the town’s vibrant culture and attractions.
Kilns of Mynyddcerrig
26.3 km
Explore the historic limekilns of Mynyddcerrig, a window into Carmarthenshire’s rural industrial heritage and traditional limeburning craft.
Castell Dinefwr
31.2 km
Explore the rich history and stunning landscapes at Castell Dinefwr, a captivating castle in Llandeilo, Wales, perfect for every traveler.
Unmissable attractions to see
Oystermouth Castle
2.1 km
Explore Oystermouth Castle, a majestic 12th-century Norman fortress with stunning views over Swansea Bay and a rich medieval heritage.
The Lovespoon Gallery
2.2 km
Discover the timeless charm of Welsh lovespoons at The Lovespoon Gallery, where tradition and artistry unite in Mumbles, Swansea.
Parc Singleton Park
2.4 km
Swansea’s largest urban park offers lush gardens, a boating lake, wildlife, and vibrant events across 250 scenic acres.
Rotherslade Bay
3.2 km
A tranquil, sandy cove near Mumbles offering scenic coastal views, family-friendly waters, and charming local artistry.
Mumbles Hill Local Nature Reserve
3.2 km
Explore diverse habitats, panoramic Swansea Bay views, and WWII history at Mumbles Hill Local Nature Reserve near Swansea.
Mumbles Pier
3.5 km
Historic Victorian pier in Swansea Bay offering seaside amusements, fishing, panoramic views, and maritime heritage near Mumbles village.
Mumbles Lighthouse
3.9 km
Historic coastal sentinel guiding ships safely past Swansea Bay’s hazards with centuries of maritime and military legacy.
Castle Square
5.0 km
Where medieval ruins meet modern fountains — Castle Square is Swansea’s vibrant heart of history and community life.
The National Waterfront Museum
5.0 km
Discover Wales’ industrial heritage and innovation over 300 years in a stunning waterfront museum blending historic and modern architecture.
Swansea Castle
5.1 km
Explore the evocative 13th-century ruins of Swansea Castle nestled in a vibrant city square blending history with modern life.
Swansea Museum
5.1 km
Explore Wales’ oldest museum in Swansea’s Maritime Quarter, featuring diverse exhibits from Egyptian mummies to local maritime heritage.
Dylan Thomas Centre
5.3 km
Explore the life and legacy of Dylan Thomas at Swansea’s vibrant cultural centre with free entry and engaging exhibits.
Penyfodau Fawr Farm
6.7 km
Experience authentic Welsh farm life and local produce in the tranquil countryside near Swansea at Penyfodau Fawr Farm.
Pennard Castle
7.2 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Pennard Castle perched above Three Cliffs Bay, where medieval history meets wild coastal beauty and shifting sands.
Giant's Grave
7.6 km
Explore a 6,000-year-old Neolithic chambered tomb nestled in a tranquil Welsh valley, revealing ancient burial rites and prehistoric heritage.
Essential places to dine
The Secret Beach Bar & Kitchen
3.1 km
A vibrant modern British beachside bar and kitchen with stunning Swansea Bay views and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
The Lighthouse Bar & Kitchen And Lounge
3.6 km
Seaside dining with stunning views, fresh flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Mumbles, Swansea.
Morgans Restaurant
5.2 km
Elegant European dining and refined bar experiences in a historic Swansea hotel near the marina and city centre.
The River House
5.6 km
Scenic waterfront dining with seasonal modern European cuisine and award-winning cocktails in Swansea’s vibrant SA1 district.
Lezzet Authentic Restaurant
8.9 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine in a bright, welcoming setting with expertly crafted dishes and attentive service in Swansea.
Garden Room Restaurant
11.7 km
A bright, plant-filled restaurant inside Pontarddulais Garden Centre, serving generous British classics and Sunday roasts in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
Beach House Restaurant
11.7 km
Michelin-starred fine dining with stunning Oxwich Bay views, showcasing the best of Welsh seasonal produce in a rustic-chic beachside setting.
Harvester Llandarcy Neath
12.0 km
A family-friendly British bar & grill near the M4, offering hearty meals, a free salad bar, and casual dining in Neath’s Llandarcy.
Fredricks Bar & Brasserie
12.3 km
Relax and dine in style with stunning golf course views at Fredricks Bar & Brasserie, Llanelli’s refined yet welcoming culinary spot.
The Travellers Well
12.6 km
Cozy pub in Skewen offering great food, live music, and a friendly atmosphere for casual dining and special events.
The Front
13.1 km
Enjoy fresh seafood and classic British dishes with friendly service in a relaxed seaside setting on Port Talbot’s Princess Margaret Way.
Bagle Brook Beefeater
13.7 km
Family-friendly Beefeater steakhouse in Port Talbot offering classic British and American dishes with vegan options and lively weekend vibes.
The Bird In Hand
14.6 km
A welcoming country pub in Swansea offering hearty British fare, friendly service, and a lively bar in a family-friendly setting.
The Coach House
15.1 km
Historic charm and scenic gardens combine at The Coach House, Neath’s premier wedding venue and steakhouse restaurant.
The Welsh House
15.6 km
Experience authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality in a cozy Neath setting with a charming beer garden and locally sourced dishes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Quadrant Shopping Centre
4.7 km
Swansea's covered shopping destination blending high street chains with independent boutiques in a modern, accessible setting.
Obsessive Koi Disorder
9.1 km
A vibrant Swansea shop blending koi fish expertise with unique aquatic-themed gifts and apparel for enthusiasts and pond keepers alike.
Wax 2 Relax
9.3 km
Discover handcrafted candles, bespoke perfumes, and unique local crafts in a cozy Morriston boutique that celebrates artisan creativity.
The Range
9.8 km
A spacious and affordable homewares and leisure store in Swansea offering everything from furniture to crafts and garden supplies.
Best-one Convenience Store
10.4 km
Discover the Best-one Convenience Store in Swansea - your go-to spot for local snacks and essentials while exploring the area.
Inspired Aroma
10.6 km
Explore the enchanting world of scents at Inspired Aroma, Swansea's beloved candle shop, where every fragrance tells a story.
The Funny Gift Store
10.7 km
Discover quirky, handmade novelty gifts that bring laughter and joy to Swansea and beyond at The Funny Gift Store.
Peniel Green Food & Wine
10.9 km
A friendly family-run off licence and convenience store in Swansea offering wide selection and late hours for local shoppers.
Lush and Tidy
11.3 km
Explore Lush and Tidy, a charming gift shop in Skewen offering unique treasures and local artistry for every traveler.
Seren Jewellery
11.7 km
Handcrafted wedding jewelry in Swansea blending traditional silversmithing with personal service in a charming Birchgrove boutique.
Pooja Stores
11.7 km
Discover the charm of Pooja Stores in Birchgrove, Swansea - your go-to convenience store for quick shopping and local flavors.
Wooscrafts
11.7 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and artisan crafts in the heart of Birchgrove, Swansea at Wooscrafts.
Juno candles
11.7 km
Discover handcrafted candles that tell a story of scent and craftsmanship in the heart of Birchgrove, Swansea.
SPAR - Park Avenue
11.7 km
Discover convenience at SPAR - Park Avenue, your essential stop for snacks, local products, and travel supplies in Port Talbot.
Books and Bobs
11.9 km
Discover rare books and thousands of vinyl records in this family-run Swansea shop blending literature and music.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Uplands Tavern
3.5 km
Experience the vibrant local spirit and classic British pub charm at Swansea’s Uplands Tavern, a lively hub for great drinks and live music.
Noah's Yard
3.5 km
Discover Swansea’s quirky Noah's Yard—a vibrant bar blending artistic charm, live jazz, and a welcoming community spirit.
Hogarths
5.0 km
Discover Hogarths Swansea, a lively Victorian gin palace offering over 120 gins, cozy booths, and a vibrant city centre atmosphere.
The Perch
5.0 km
Experience Swansea’s energetic live music scene and rustic charm at The Perch, Wind Street’s vibrant bar with cocktails and great vibes.
No Sign Wine Bar
5.0 km
A cozy, character-rich Swansea pub blending real ales, live music, and acclaimed Sunday lunches in the heart of Wind Street.
Bambu Beach Bar
5.1 km
Experience Swansea’s vibrant Latin tiki nightlife with tropical cocktails, rooftop dancing, and unforgettable party vibes at Bambu Beach Bar.
Peppermint
5.1 km
Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant nightlife, and exclusive VIP lounges in the heart of Swansea’s city centre.
Pump House
5.1 km
Classic British pub fare and refreshing drinks with stunning views of Swansea Marina in a lively, dog-friendly setting.
BeerRiff Brewing co
5.4 km
Discover innovative craft beers and vibrant community spirit at BeerRiff Brewing Co, Swansea’s waterside brewery and taproom.
The Ship Inn
5.7 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality and hearty local ales in the cozy, welcoming atmosphere of The Ship Inn in Swansea.
Maltsters Arms
5.7 km
Cozy and vibrant pub in Swansea’s Cwmbwrla, offering local ales, hearty food, and a warm community atmosphere.
The Wern Inn
6.9 km
Friendly traditional Swansea pub with hearty food, a lively atmosphere, and a spacious beer garden, newly refurbished in 2025.
Ivorites Arms
7.2 km
Cozy Welsh pub in Swansea’s Plasmarl offering local ales, hearty food, and warm hospitality in a friendly, inviting atmosphere.
Tafarn Tawe
8.8 km
Lively and welcoming bar at Swansea University Bay Campus, perfect for drinks, events, and socializing in a vibrant student atmosphere.
The Copper Pot
9.8 km
A friendly Swansea pub offering hearty meals, generous portions, and a relaxed atmosphere in the heart of Swansea Enterprise Park.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sin City
4.5 km
Energetic Swansea nightclub with live music, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere on Dillwyn Street.
Cuba Escape
4.7 km
Experience Swansea’s vibrant nightlife at Cuba Escape, where live music, energetic crowds, and a colorful atmosphere come together for unforgettable nights.
PlanB
4.7 km
Swansea’s energetic two-floor nightclub with a focus on dance music, lively DJs, and great drink deals for a night to remember.
Popworld - Swansea
5.0 km
Experience Swansea’s energetic retro nightclub with affordable cocktails, themed events, and a lively dance floor in the heart of the city.
The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club
8.3 km
Experience lively nights and vibrant music at The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club, Gorseinon’s premier destination for unforgettable nightlife.
Jimmy's Bar
15.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and live music scene at Jimmy's Bar, Port Talbot’s lively local hotspot with a welcoming atmosphere.
The Arch Bar & Nightclub
15.4 km
A lively Neath hotspot blending nightclub energy, live music, pub charm, and Thai cuisine in one vibrant venue.
The Top Club
28.7 km
Experience Blaengarw’s vibrant nightlife at The Top Club, where electrifying entertainment meets community spirit in the heart of South Wales.
Lucifer's Nightlife
35.7 km
Experience Carmarthen's vibrant nightlife and fast food fusion at Lucifer's Nightlife, where music, dancing, and late-night bites come alive on Queen Street.
Savannah's Night Club
35.9 km
Experience Carmarthen’s vibrant nightlife at Savannah's Night Club—where music, dance, and stylish vibes create unforgettable Saturday nights.
Squares Night club
41.0 km
Experience Porth’s vibrant nightlife at Squares Nightclub, where music, dance, and unforgettable evenings come alive every weekend.
The Kirkhouse Nightclub (Koolers)
45.9 km
Experience the vibrant and friendly nightlife of Merthyr Tydfil at The Kirkhouse Nightclub, known locally as Koolers.
Pure Bar & Nightclub Ltd
46.3 km
A lively nightclub and cocktail bar in Merthyr Tydfil offering vibrant music, crafted drinks, and late-night entertainment in South Wales.
Eclipse Nightclub
46.6 km
Experience Pontypridd’s vibrant midweek nightlife at Eclipse Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community come alive every Wednesday night.
Hazewell Club
48.8 km
Discover the Hazewell Club in Tenby: a cozy sports club offering a warm atmosphere and local drinks amidst stunning coastal views.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
