With lots of people planning to go to Clyne in Bloom in May, we thought we’d help you make the most of your visit by compiling this list of 10 amazing things you can see in the park. For those of you not familiar with Clyne Gardens, it’s a stunning botanical garden which overlooks Swansea Bay. It was created by William Graham Vivian who purchased the Clyne Castle in 1860, before it was passed to his nephew known as ‘The Admiral’ in 1921.
There’s a great line-up of activities starting at Clyne Gardens next week as the park sees the return of its stunning floral colours. The month of May is a great time to see Clyne Gardens at their best as the award-winning Rhododendrons and Azaleas are in full bloom, and with live music and guided walks on offer, the park provides something for everyone to see. Led by one of the park’s expert gardeners, the guided tours, available every Wednesday and Sunday during May and starting at 2pm, are a great way to learn more about the hard work that goes into maintaining the garden’s beautiful displays, and maybe pick up a few tips to take home. Music lovers will want to visit the gardens on Sundays at 3pm when local bands such as the Swansea Concert Band take to a specially erected stage for a series of afternoon concerts during May. Clyne Gardens not only contains approximately 2000 different species of plants, they are also home to a variety of wildlife. With an easy to follow map at the entrance and fingerposts pointing the way it is easy to walk around the gardens on your own. Why not set off one day in search of the beautiful bluebell wood, it really is great for photographs, or enjoy a picnic in the wildflower meadow?
1. The Gazebo
The gazebo was built as a look-out for the Admiral to view the incoming ships as they entered Swansea Bay.
2. Japanese Bridge
One of the famous features of Clyne Gardens is the Japanese Bridge. Water which rises in Clyne Common, travels under the Japanese Bridge and through the gardens to join the sea at Blackpill.
3. Bluebell Wood
A natural flowering spectacle, the Bluebell Wood grows under the shade of the Turkey Oaks.
4. Joy Cottage
Joy Cottage was built as a miniature cottage for the amusement and education of the Admiral’s daughters. Here they were taught by nannies to read, write and cook.
5. Italian Bridge
A one-time water feature of the castle grounds, the Italian Bridge survives in isolation with the plinths that originally supported marble statues.
6. Dog Graves
Near the St Catwg’s Walk entrance to Clyne Gardens are small dogs to commemorate the Admiral’s family pets.
7. Azaleas and Rhododendrons
Clyne Gardens are famous for their colourful Azaleas and Rhododendrons which are the most photographed plants in the gardens.
8. The Bog Garden
The Bog Garden is home to the giant leaf rhubarb which can grow to 8ft tall and is the largest leaved herbaceous plant grown in Europe.
9. The Tower
The Tower was originally built as a viewing tower for the Admiral to overlook his collection of rhododendrons, and out towards the sea.
10. Clyne Chapel
Built by William Graham Vivian and was opened for worship in 1908. Beneath it, in a private vault, Graham Vivian, his sister Dulcie and the Admiral are buried.
For more information about Clyne Gardens and Clyne in Bloom events, including charges and meeting points, visit www.swansea.gov.uk/clyneinbloom.
Now that you know what to see and do in Clyne Gardens, you can start planning your trip – why not check out the Clyne in Bloom Programme below:
Sunday 3 May, 3.00pm – 5.00pm
Morriston Big Band
Free
Sunday 10 May, 3.00pm – 5.00pm
Swansea Concert Band
Free
Sunday 17 May, 10.00am – 4.00pm
Rare Plant Sale
Sunday 17 May, 3.00pm – 5.00pm
Accordion Orchestra
Free
Sunday 24 May, 3.00pm – 5.00pm
Loughor Town Band
Free
Sunday 31 May, 3.00pm – 5.00pm
The Constellation Big Band
Free
Every Wednesday and Sunday in May, 2.00pm
Clyne in Bloom Garden Tours
Tickets: £2.50, 50p concessions
This post is also available in: Welsh