The National Waterfront Museum, Swansea
Discover Wales’ industrial heritage and innovation over 300 years in a stunning waterfront museum blending historic and modern architecture.
Situated in Swansea's Maritime Quarter, the National Waterfront Museum showcases over 300 years of Wales' industrial and maritime heritage. Housed in a striking blend of a historic Grade II listed warehouse and a modern glass and slate building, it offers interactive exhibits on transport, materials, and innovation. Admission is free, with engaging displays suitable for all ages, highlighting Wales’ role in the industrial revolution and societal change.
A brief summary to The National Waterfront Museum
- National Waterfront Museum, Oystermouth Rd, Swansea, Maritime Quarter, SA1 3RD, GB
- +443001112333
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Made in Wales gallery to see iconic Welsh products like Corgi toys and Spectrum computers.
- Take advantage of the interactive displays with multilingual voiceovers and British Sign Language captions.
- Enjoy refreshments and a break at the museum café, which includes a children’s play area.
- Plan your visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and access to educational workshops.
- Explore the marina outside the museum for scenic views and picnic spots.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Bus
Swansea city center is served by regular bus routes connecting to the Maritime Quarter. Bus journeys typically take 15-25 minutes from suburbs, with tickets costing around £2-£4. Buses run frequently but check schedules for evening and weekend service.
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Train and Walk
Swansea Railway Station is approximately a 15-minute walk from the museum. The station offers connections from major Welsh cities and the UK. Walking routes are flat and accessible, suitable for wheelchair users.
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Car
There is no dedicated parking at the museum, but several pay-and-display car parks are within a 5-10 minute walk. Parking fees vary, typically £1-£3 per hour, with free parking available on Sundays. Note that the area can be busy during events.
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Cycling
The Maritime Quarter is accessible via dedicated cycle paths from Swansea city center. Bike racks are available near the museum entrance. Cycling is a convenient and eco-friendly option, especially on mild weather days.
The National Waterfront Museum 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 The National Waterfront Museum
A Fusion of History and Modern Architecture
The National Waterfront Museum stands as a captivating fusion of old and new, seamlessly combining a beautifully restored Grade II listed warehouse with a sleek, contemporary glass and slate extension. This architectural dialogue reflects the museum’s mission to bridge Wales’ rich industrial past with its innovative present. Located on the scenic Swansea Marina, the building’s waterfront position offers visitors panoramic views of the Tawe Basin and the bustling Maritime Quarter, enhancing the immersive experience.Exploring Wales’ Industrial Legacy
Inside, the museum delves into over three centuries of Welsh industrial and maritime history. Exhibits span from the era of the industrial revolution to modern technological advances, featuring iconic artifacts such as a replica of the world’s first steam locomotive, the Puffing Billy, a tinplate rolling mill, and a rare coal wagon. These displays tell the story of Wales’ pivotal role in shaping industrial practices and societal structures, including the origins of influential organizations like the Trade Unions, Miners Association, and the National Health Service.Interactive and Accessible Experiences
The museum is a pioneer in accessibility and engagement, offering interactive touchscreens, multimedia presentations, and sensory technology that responds to hand gestures. Multilingual voiceovers and British Sign Language captions ensure inclusivity for diverse audiences. Visitors can explore digital street maps showcasing Swansea’s historical transformations or enjoy panoramic video maps of the industrial landscape, making the museum a dynamic educational environment for all ages.Contemporary Welsh Industry and Cultural Events
The Made in Wales gallery highlights items manufactured locally from the 1930s to today, including Corgi toys and Spectrum computers, illustrating the region’s ongoing innovation. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and events that explore contemporary Welsh industry, culture, and social themes, alongside family-friendly activities, film screenings, talks, and craft workshops. A café and shop provide refreshments and souvenirs, while outdoor seating around the marina invites visitors to relax and enjoy the waterfront ambiance.Community and Educational Engagement
As part of Amgueddfa Cymru – Museum Wales, the National Waterfront Museum plays a vital role in community education and cultural heritage preservation. It offers curriculum-linked programs for schools under themes like Imagination and Curiosity, People and the Planet, and Breakthroughs and Discoveries. Group visits are encouraged with benefits such as shop discounts and complimentary refreshments for coaches, fostering an inclusive learning environment.Visitor Practicalities and Surroundings
Open daily from 10am to 5pm (with winter hours from November to February closing at 4pm), the museum offers free admission, though some special exhibitions and events may charge a fee. While there is no dedicated parking, several pay-and-display car parks are nearby. The museum is easily accessible by public transport, with Swansea Railway Station within walking distance. Facilities include wheelchair access, lifts, baby changing, and assistance for visitors with disabilities, ensuring a comfortable visit for all.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Premier Inn Swansea City Centre hotel
0.2 km
Comfortable city-centre hotel on vibrant Wind Street, with spacious rooms, tasty dining, and easy access to Swansea’s cultural and coastal highlights.
Delta Hotels Swansea
0.5 km
Stylish waterfront hotel in Swansea’s Maritime Quarter with modern comforts, stunning bay views, and versatile event spaces.
Cwtsh Hostel
0.5 km
Modern, friendly, and centrally located hostel offering comfortable stays and social spaces in the vibrant heart of Swansea.
Premier Inn Swansea Waterfront hotel
0.8 km
Modern comfort and scenic marina views combine at Premier Inn Swansea Waterfront, your gateway to Swansea’s vibrant coastal charm.
Cathedral Church of Saint Joseph (Eglwys Gadeirlan Siôseff Sant)
1.8 km
A majestic Gothic Revival cathedral in Swansea, symbolizing faith, history, and community since 1888.
Glamorgan History Society
4.4 km
Explore Glamorgan’s rich history through dedicated research, publications, and community events at the heart of Swansea’s heritage.
Tours of Wales
9.3 km
Discover Wales’ rich history and stunning landscapes on small-group, expertly guided day tours with Tours of Wales.
Gorsedd Circle
18.1 km
A modern stone circle in Llanelli celebrating Welsh culture, poetry, and the spirit of the National Eisteddfod.
Y Bwlwarcau
18.5 km
Explore Y Bwlwarcau, a serene Iron Age hillfort nestled on Mynydd Margam’s slopes, revealing ancient Welsh heritage amidst tranquil countryside.
Whiteford Lighthouse
21.9 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.
Dyfed Menswear
23.4 km
Explore Llanelli with ease at Dyfed Menswear, a central bus stop connecting you to the town’s vibrant culture and attractions.
Rhossili Downs
23.9 km
Experience breathtaking coastal panoramas and ancient heritage atop the highest point of Wales' Gower Peninsula.
The Baltic Inn & Restaurant
25.0 km
A welcoming countryside inn in Pontyates offering cozy rooms, hearty dining, and a peaceful Welsh village atmosphere.
Kilns of Mynyddcerrig
26.8 km
Explore the historic limekilns of Mynyddcerrig, a window into Carmarthenshire’s rural industrial heritage and traditional limeburning craft.
Waterfall Country
28.5 km
Explore the breathtaking waterfalls and lush landscapes of Waterfall Country, a nature lover's paradise in Wales.
Unmissable attractions to see
Swansea Museum
0.1 km
Explore Wales’ oldest museum in Swansea’s Maritime Quarter, featuring diverse exhibits from Egyptian mummies to local maritime heritage.
Dylan Thomas Centre
0.4 km
Explore the life and legacy of Dylan Thomas at Swansea’s vibrant cultural centre with free entry and engaging exhibits.
Swansea Castle
0.4 km
Explore the evocative 13th-century ruins of Swansea Castle nestled in a vibrant city square blending history with modern life.
Castle Square
0.5 km
Where medieval ruins meet modern fountains — Castle Square is Swansea’s vibrant heart of history and community life.
Parc Singleton Park
2.9 km
Swansea’s largest urban park offers lush gardens, a boating lake, wildlife, and vibrant events across 250 scenic acres.
1940s Swansea
3.8 km
Step back into wartime Swansea at 1940s Swansea, where history and nature meet in the evocative Crymlyn Burrows landscape.
Clyne Gardens
5.0 km
Discover Clyne Gardens, Swansea’s historic botanical haven with rare plants, scenic views, and tranquil parkland open year-round.
Mumbles Pier
5.8 km
Historic Victorian pier in Swansea Bay offering seaside amusements, fishing, panoramic views, and maritime heritage near Mumbles village.
Mumbles Lighthouse
6.0 km
Historic coastal sentinel guiding ships safely past Swansea Bay’s hazards with centuries of maritime and military legacy.
Mumbles Hill Local Nature Reserve
6.1 km
Explore diverse habitats, panoramic Swansea Bay views, and WWII history at Mumbles Hill Local Nature Reserve near Swansea.
The Lovespoon Gallery
6.1 km
Discover the timeless charm of Welsh lovespoons at The Lovespoon Gallery, where tradition and artistry unite in Mumbles, Swansea.
Oystermouth Castle
6.2 km
Explore Oystermouth Castle, a majestic 12th-century Norman fortress with stunning views over Swansea Bay and a rich medieval heritage.
Rotherslade Bay
7.2 km
A tranquil, sandy cove near Mumbles offering scenic coastal views, family-friendly waters, and charming local artistry.
Penyfodau Fawr Farm
7.3 km
Experience authentic Welsh farm life and local produce in the tranquil countryside near Swansea at Penyfodau Fawr Farm.
Penllergare Valley Woods
7.4 km
Explore the enchanting Victorian woodland estate of Penllergare Valley Woods, a serene natural haven with waterfalls, lakes, and historic gardens near Swansea.
Essential places to dine
Morgans Restaurant
0.3 km
Elegant European dining and refined bar experiences in a historic Swansea hotel near the marina and city centre.
The River House
0.6 km
Scenic waterfront dining with seasonal modern European cuisine and award-winning cocktails in Swansea’s vibrant SA1 district.
The Secret Beach Bar & Kitchen
1.9 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
6.3 km
Seaside dining with stunning views, fresh flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Mumbles, Swansea.
Harvester Llandarcy Neath
7.0 km
A family-friendly British bar & grill near the M4, offering hearty meals, a free salad bar, and casual dining in Neath’s Llandarcy.
Lezzet Authentic Restaurant
7.4 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine in a bright, welcoming setting with expertly crafted dishes and attentive service in Swansea.
The Travellers Well
7.7 km
Cozy pub in Skewen offering great food, live music, and a friendly atmosphere for casual dining and special events.
Bagle Brook Beefeater
9.1 km
Family-friendly Beefeater steakhouse in Port Talbot offering classic British and American dishes with vegan options and lively weekend vibes.
The Front
9.2 km
Enjoy fresh seafood and classic British dishes with friendly service in a relaxed seaside setting on Port Talbot’s Princess Margaret Way.
The Coach House
10.2 km
Historic charm and scenic gardens combine at The Coach House, Neath’s premier wedding venue and steakhouse restaurant.
The Welsh House
10.6 km
Experience authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality in a cozy Neath setting with a charming beer garden and locally sourced dishes.
Garden Room Restaurant
10.9 km
A bright, plant-filled restaurant inside Pontarddulais Garden Centre, serving generous British classics and Sunday roasts in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
Afan Tavern
12.3 km
Experience delightful grilled cuisine and warm Welsh hospitality at Afan Tavern in Cwmafan - perfect for budget-friendly dining!
T Bones
12.5 km
Rustic British dining with hearty portions and warm service at a charming farm location in Pontrhydyfen, Port Talbot.
The Colliers Arms
13.1 km
Discover the charm of The Colliers Arms – where delicious food meets friendly faces in Port Talbot's welcoming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Quadrant Shopping Centre
0.5 km
Swansea's covered shopping destination blending high street chains with independent boutiques in a modern, accessible setting.
Obsessive Koi Disorder
4.4 km
A vibrant Swansea shop blending koi fish expertise with unique aquatic-themed gifts and apparel for enthusiasts and pond keepers alike.
The Range
5.1 km
A spacious and affordable homewares and leisure store in Swansea offering everything from furniture to crafts and garden supplies.
Wax 2 Relax
5.3 km
Discover handcrafted candles, bespoke perfumes, and unique local crafts in a cozy Morriston boutique that celebrates artisan creativity.
Best-one Convenience Store
5.6 km
Discover the Best-one Convenience Store in Swansea - your go-to spot for local snacks and essentials while exploring the area.
Inspired Aroma
5.9 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
6.0 km
Discover quirky, handmade novelty gifts that bring laughter and joy to Swansea and beyond at The Funny Gift Store.
Peniel Green Food & Wine
6.2 km
A friendly family-run off licence and convenience store in Swansea offering wide selection and late hours for local shoppers.
Lush and Tidy
6.3 km
Explore Lush and Tidy, a charming gift shop in Skewen offering unique treasures and local artistry for every traveler.
SPAR - Park Avenue
6.8 km
Discover convenience at SPAR - Park Avenue, your essential stop for snacks, local products, and travel supplies in Port Talbot.
Pooja Stores
6.9 km
Discover the charm of Pooja Stores in Birchgrove, Swansea - your go-to convenience store for quick shopping and local flavors.
Seren Jewellery
7.1 km
Handcrafted wedding jewelry in Swansea blending traditional silversmithing with personal service in a charming Birchgrove boutique.
Wooscrafts
7.2 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and artisan crafts in the heart of Birchgrove, Swansea at Wooscrafts.
Juno candles
7.2 km
Discover handcrafted candles that tell a story of scent and craftsmanship in the heart of Birchgrove, Swansea.
Books and Bobs
7.3 km
Discover rare books and thousands of vinyl records in this family-run Swansea shop blending literature and music.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pump House
0.2 km
Classic British pub fare and refreshing drinks with stunning views of Swansea Marina in a lively, dog-friendly setting.
Bambu Beach Bar
0.3 km
Experience Swansea’s vibrant Latin tiki nightlife with tropical cocktails, rooftop dancing, and unforgettable party vibes at Bambu Beach Bar.
Peppermint
0.3 km
Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant nightlife, and exclusive VIP lounges in the heart of Swansea’s city centre.
No Sign Wine Bar
0.3 km
A cozy, character-rich Swansea pub blending real ales, live music, and acclaimed Sunday lunches in the heart of Wind Street.
Hogarths
0.3 km
Discover Hogarths Swansea, a lively Victorian gin palace offering over 120 gins, cozy booths, and a vibrant city centre atmosphere.
The Perch
0.4 km
Experience Swansea’s energetic live music scene and rustic charm at The Perch, Wind Street’s vibrant bar with cocktails and great vibes.
BeerRiff Brewing co
0.5 km
Discover innovative craft beers and vibrant community spirit at BeerRiff Brewing Co, Swansea’s waterside brewery and taproom.
The Ship Inn
0.8 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality and hearty local ales in the cozy, welcoming atmosphere of The Ship Inn in Swansea.
Noah's Yard
1.9 km
Discover Swansea’s quirky Noah's Yard—a vibrant bar blending artistic charm, live jazz, and a welcoming community spirit.
Uplands Tavern
1.9 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.
Maltsters Arms
2.5 km
Cozy and vibrant pub in Swansea’s Cwmbwrla, offering local ales, hearty food, and a warm community atmosphere.
The Wern Inn
3.1 km
Friendly traditional Swansea pub with hearty food, a lively atmosphere, and a spacious beer garden, newly refurbished in 2025.
Ivorites Arms
3.4 km
Cozy Welsh pub in Swansea’s Plasmarl offering local ales, hearty food, and warm hospitality in a friendly, inviting atmosphere.
Tafarn Tawe
4.1 km
Lively and welcoming bar at Swansea University Bay Campus, perfect for drinks, events, and socializing in a vibrant student atmosphere.
The Copper Pot
5.4 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
Popworld - Swansea
0.4 km
Experience Swansea’s energetic retro nightclub with affordable cocktails, themed events, and a lively dance floor in the heart of the city.
PlanB
0.7 km
Swansea’s energetic two-floor nightclub with a focus on dance music, lively DJs, and great drink deals for a night to remember.
Cuba Escape
0.8 km
Experience Swansea’s vibrant nightlife at Cuba Escape, where live music, energetic crowds, and a colorful atmosphere come together for unforgettable nights.
Sin City
0.8 km
Energetic Swansea nightclub with live music, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere on Dillwyn Street.
The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club
8.7 km
Experience lively nights and vibrant music at The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club, Gorseinon’s premier destination for unforgettable nightlife.
The Arch Bar & Nightclub
10.4 km
A lively Neath hotspot blending nightclub energy, live music, pub charm, and Thai cuisine in one vibrant venue.
Jimmy's Bar
11.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and live music scene at Jimmy's Bar, Port Talbot’s lively local hotspot with a welcoming atmosphere.
The Top Club
24.1 km
Experience Blaengarw’s vibrant nightlife at The Top Club, where electrifying entertainment meets community spirit in the heart of South Wales.
Squares Night club
36.6 km
Experience Porth’s vibrant nightlife at Squares Nightclub, where music, dance, and unforgettable evenings come alive every weekend.
Lucifer's Nightlife
36.7 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
37.0 km
Experience Carmarthen’s vibrant nightlife at Savannah's Night Club—where music, dance, and stylish vibes create unforgettable Saturday nights.
The Kirkhouse Nightclub (Koolers)
40.9 km
Experience the vibrant and friendly nightlife of Merthyr Tydfil at The Kirkhouse Nightclub, known locally as Koolers.
Pure Bar & Nightclub Ltd
41.3 km
A lively nightclub and cocktail bar in Merthyr Tydfil offering vibrant music, crafted drinks, and late-night entertainment in South Wales.
Eclipse Nightclub
42.3 km
Experience Pontypridd’s vibrant midweek nightlife at Eclipse Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community come alive every Wednesday night.
Coco Cubanas
51.5 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Educational
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
