Swansea

Swansea, Wales’ Waterfront City enjoys a location that is hard to beat. It sits on the 5 mile sweep of Swansea Bay and most city centre attractions and shops are less than 10 minutes walk from the sea. It is also Wales's second largest city. Swansea lies within the historic county boundaries of Glamorgan. Situated on the sandy South West Wales coast, the county area includes the Gower Peninsula and the Lliw uplands. During its 19th-century industrial heyday, Swansea was a key centre of the copper industry, earning the nickname 'Copperopolis'.

Swansea is a coastal city and as such, the climate, weather conditions and precipitation levels are strongly influenced by its waterfront setting. The climate in the Swansea area of West Glamorgan tends to be noticeably milder than other more inland villages and mountainous regions. However, the Atlantic Ocean does tend to bring heavy, rain and some strong winds, which do mean that Swansea experiences some of the region's wettest weather at times. The winter climate in Swansea is mild and most nights stay above freezing, although occasional snowfalls are not completely unexpected during cold spells. During the sunniest winter weather, the daytime temperatures often exceed 10°C / 50°F and when there is no wind, can feel surprisingly warm at times, particularly in February. However, gusty breezes are commonplace during the winter months in Swansea. By the time March arrives, spring is clearly approaching and the temperatures shoot up and can even rise to 15°C / 59°F on occasion, a clear indication that the weather is improving.

Swansea is a regional shopping centre serving South West Wales. It is home to the National Waterfront Museum, the Wales National Pool and a New Stadium, home to Swansea City Football Club and the Ospreys regional rugby team. The National Waterfront Museum is an Anchor Point of ERIH, The European Route of Industrial Heritage. The National Waterfront Museum tells the story of Welsh industry and innovation over the past 300 years.

During the last 20 years, Swansea has experienced dramatic economic growth that has been generated by a structured investment programme, enhancing the City and its surrounds. Recent regeneration activity at the 40ha SA1 Swansea Waterfront adjacent to the City Centre has raised the profile of Swansea considerably. The Swansea Enterprise Park is now well established. It is now supplemented by the thriving 470 acres Swansea Vale, which is one of the most significant development and investment opportunities in the City's history. A Joint Venture between the City and County of Swansea and the Welsh Assembly Government, the award-winning development provides a prestigious location for residential and business use.