The Roll of Honour
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Cwmdonkin Park

4.8
·471 reviews·Uplands, United Kingdom

A historic green oasis in Uplands, Cwmdonkin Park offers scenic walks, free sports facilities, a charming cafe, and literary connections.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls

CrowdLow
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The Roll of Honour

Cwmdonkin Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic green oasis in Uplands, Cwmdonkin Park offers scenic walks, free sports facilities, a charming cafe, and literary connections.

4.8
(471 reviews)

"A great park, well maintained with several areas, good for kids and escaping the crowds."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

The park is hilly; comfortable footwear is a must for exploring all its areas.

🚗 Parking Patience

Parking can be challenging. Explore side streets if main spots are full.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dylan Thomas Connections

Dylan Thomas Connections

Various points throughout the park

Discover memorials and learn about the park's significance to the renowned poet Dylan Thomas.

Reddit
Recreational Facilities

Recreational Facilities

Throughout the park

Enjoy free tennis courts, a mini basketball court, table tennis, a zip line, and a children's play area.

Reddit
The Park Cafe

The Park Cafe

Central hut

A charming spot for great coffee, vegan sausage rolls, and a pleasant break during your park visit.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Hills!

Cwmdonkin Park is beautifully landscaped but quite hilly. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring its various sections, from the children's play area to the tennis courts. Parking can be tricky, so consider side streets if the main spots are full. Reddit

A Literary & Leisure Hub

This park is a haven for both nature lovers and literary enthusiasts, with connections to Dylan Thomas. Enjoy the well-maintained paths, diverse plants, and amenities like tennis courts and a cafe. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Crowd
Low
When
Sunny afternoons
Why
Perfect for outdoor activities
Crowd
Medium
When
Event days
Why
Live music & family fun
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

BullWinkle’s 🫎 📍 1500 W Seventh St Upland, CA 91786 #inlandempire #thingstodo #uplandca #upland #amusementpark #gokart #lasertag #kidfriendly #familyfriendly #minigolf #arcade #riversidecounty #sanbernardinocounty #highdesert #temeculavalley #coachellavalley #bigbear #951 #909 #760 #socal
@onlyintheie
96.9K likes • 1.4M views

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

The park is hilly; comfortable footwear is a must for exploring all its areas. Reddit

🚗 Parking Patience

Parking can be challenging. Explore side streets if main spots are full. Reddit+1

📍Bullwinkles. Upland, CA. Entertainment for the whole family 🤍 #thingstodoininlandempire #thingstodoinlandempire #familytime #familyentertainment #ranchocucamonga #uplandcalifornia #montclair #inlandempire #909 #thingstodowithkids #thingstodo #southerncalifornia #socal #socaladventures
@psychxmommmy
22.3K likes • 452.8K views
A unique beauty spot situated in the heart of the city, Cwmdonkin Park🌿 #SummerInSwansea #StudentLife #SwanseaUni
swanseauni
352 likes • 11.6K views

☕ Grab a Coffee

The park cafe offers great coffee and snacks, perfect for a break. Reddit

🎾 Free Tennis Courts

Enjoy the free tennis courts; bring your own equipment to play. Reddit

📍Cwmdonkin Park | Uplands الربيع في سوانزي 🌸
swanseauni_ar
13 likes • 333 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

The park is hilly; comfortable footwear is a must for exploring all its areas. Reddit

🚗 Parking Patience

Parking can be challenging. Explore side streets if main spots are full. Reddit+1

☕ Grab a Coffee

The park cafe offers great coffee and snacks, perfect for a break. Reddit

🎾 Free Tennis Courts

Enjoy the free tennis courts; bring your own equipment to play. Reddit

👶 Kid-Friendly Fun

Excellent play area and zip line for younger visitors. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(471 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Cwmdonkin Park for its beautiful, well-maintained grounds, diverse recreational facilities, and charming cafe. It's a beloved spot for walks, family outings, and sports, though parking can be a challenge and the hilly terrain requires comfortable footwear. The park's connection to Dylan Thomas adds a unique cultural dimension.

"Nice for a walk if you're in or near Uplands. Also has 3 good tennis courts plus one with a rough but playable surface. They look like they're free. Has a mini basketball court with no hoop (sadly), a table tennis table, zip line and kids play area plus a slide. There's also a nice cafe in the hut in the middle. A great park"

Stephen Beale

"Lovely park very well maintained with several areas in it; some good for kids, some good to escape the crowds and just enjoy being out doors. Parking not always so easy but an absolutely lovely park when the weather is good. The visit this time was a pleasant stroll with very few people around (the weather was pretty wild). The place is very hilly but it has got interesting plants and, naturally, a lot of information about Dylan Thomas and other notables who lived around this area."

Anthony Esang

"Beautiful park and well maintained, but if you are walking from Swansea city, beware, it's a steep climb! Various references to Dylan Thomas and a memorial stone with words from "Fern Hill".
Lots of old trees, woodland and a few water features. Well laid out walk ways and ample benches and picnic tables.
Facilities include a bowling green, tennis courts, basketball net, children's play area and zip wire.
Well worth a visit 😃"

Jean Sullivan

What People Like

Beautifully maintained grounds
Free tennis courts
Charming park cafe

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Steep hills

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Walking from Swansea city center is possible but involves a steep climb. Taxis or local buses are good alternatives if you prefer to avoid the hill. Reddit

Parking can be limited, especially on busy days. Look for spaces on surrounding residential streets if the main parking areas are full. Reddit+1

Yes, local buses serve the Uplands area, making the park accessible via public transport. Check local bus routes for specific stops. Instagram

Cycling is a great option, and you can explore the park's paths. Secure your bike appropriately if you plan to leave it unattended. Instagram

Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes. The park is quite hilly, so pace yourself and enjoy the scenic routes. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Cwmdonkin Park is a public park and entry is free for all visitors. Instagram

Yes, the tennis courts, including one with a slightly rougher surface, are free to use. Reddit

As a public park, Cwmdonkin Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific facility hours may vary. Instagram

While free, it's advisable to check if any booking system is in place, especially during peak times, though they are often available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reddit

No, the cafe is open to the public, and you only pay for what you order. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Children can enjoy a dedicated play area, a zip line, and open spaces for running around. Reddit

Yes, the park features well-maintained tennis courts and a mini basketball court (though it lacks a hoop). Reddit

Absolutely! There are ample benches and picnic tables available throughout the park, making it ideal for a family picnic. Reddit

Yes, it's a popular spot for dog walkers, with plenty of paths and open areas for your pets to enjoy. Reddit

The park boasts mature trees and interesting plant collections, contributing to its beautifully balanced landscape. Reddit

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

Yes, there's a lovely cafe located in the central hut, offering great coffee and snacks like vegan sausage rolls. Reddit

The cafe serves coffee, vegan sausage rolls, and other baked goods. It's a perfect spot for a light refreshment. Reddit

Yes, the park provides numerous benches and picnic tables, ideal for bringing your own food and enjoying a meal outdoors. Reddit

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for picnics. Reddit

The park is located in the Uplands area, which has a variety of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants nearby. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The mature trees, varied landscape, water features, and the cafe offer picturesque scenes. The connections to Dylan Thomas also provide unique photographic opportunities. InstagramReddit

Yes, its rolling hills, diverse flora, and well-maintained paths create a beautiful, balanced landscape ideal for photography. Reddit

Look for the memorial stone with words from 'Fern Hill' and other subtle references to Dylan Thomas for literary-themed shots. Reddit

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light, ideal for capturing the park's natural beauty. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks to ensure safety and tranquility. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cwmdonkin Park is a fantastic destination for families. The children's play area is a major draw, featuring a slide and a fun zip line that kids absolutely love. Reddit The open, hilly spaces are perfect for running around, and there are plenty of picnic tables and benches for snacks and breaks. Reddit Remember to wear comfortable shoes as the park is quite hilly, but the variety of activities ensures a fun-filled day for everyone. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkers & Nature Lovers

For those who enjoy a good walk, Cwmdonkin Park offers a beautiful and varied landscape. The mature trees and interesting plant collections create a visually appealing environment, while the water features add to the tranquility. Reddit The park's hilly nature provides a good workout, and the well-maintained paths make for an enjoyable exploration. Don't miss the subtle literary connections to Dylan Thomas, adding a layer of cultural depth to your stroll. Reddit

🎾 Sports Enthusiasts

Cwmdonkin Park is a great spot for casual sports. It features free tennis courts that are well-regarded by local players. Reddit While the mini basketball court is missing a hoop, it can still be used for practice. The zip line also offers a bit of active fun. Remember to bring your own equipment for tennis and table tennis. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Literary Legacy of Cwmdonkin Park

Cwmdonkin Park holds a special place in literary history as a significant location in the life of the celebrated Welsh poet, Dylan Thomas. He spent much of his childhood exploring its grounds, and the park's natural beauty and atmosphere undoubtedly influenced his work. Visitors can find a memorial stone inscribed with lines from his famous poem 'Fern Hill,' offering a tangible connection to his creative spirit. Reddit

Beyond Thomas, the park has been a cherished community space for generations. It has hosted various events, including music performances and family fun days, fostering a sense of local pride and connection. The park's enduring appeal lies in its ability to blend natural charm with cultural significance, making it a unique destination for both locals and tourists. Instagram+1

Recreation and Relaxation for All

Cwmdonkin Park is more than just a scenic spot; it's a hub for active recreation. The park boasts several well-maintained tennis courts, which are free to use, making it a popular spot for local players. For younger visitors, a dedicated children's play area with a slide and a thrilling zip line provides hours of entertainment. Reddit+1

Beyond organized sports, the park offers opportunities for casual activities. You'll find a table tennis table (bring your own bats and balls!) and a mini basketball court (though it currently lacks a hoop). The park's hilly terrain also makes it an excellent location for a brisk walk or a leisurely stroll, with ample benches and picnic tables scattered throughout for moments of relaxation. Reddit+1

A Green Oasis with Amenities

The park is a beautifully balanced landscape, characterized by its mature trees and diverse plant life, offering a tranquil escape within the city. Its well-laid-out walkways guide visitors through different sections, each with its own charm. The park's natural beauty is enhanced by several water features, adding to its serene atmosphere. Reddit

At the heart of the park, you'll find a welcoming cafe housed in a central hut. This popular spot serves excellent coffee and a selection of snacks, including vegan options, making it a perfect place to refuel or simply enjoy a moment of quiet contemplation. The cafe's presence adds to the park's appeal as a complete destination for a day out. InstagramReddit

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