The Lighthouse, which used to be the Swansea institution, Castellammare, on Bracelet Bay is a chilled-out restaurant with what I reckon are THE best views in Swansea. If you’re sitting outside on a sunny day with some wine – it’s genuinely one of the best places in the world to be.
So to get a bit controversial, I never really loved Castellammare (don’t shoot me!). A lot of people in Swansea adored it and were upset when it was taken over and became The Lighthouse Restaurant. For me though, I always felt like it was desperate for a different, more lively sort of energy. It was a bit dated, so personally, I think the rebrand – especially considering a load of the same staff are still working there, is a good thing.
I go there a lot – in fact, weekly as I attend a baby group in the function room upstairs. Do I think it has the best food in Swansea? No – though the pizza is VERY good (some of the best in the city), and tis great value when it is BOGOF when you can get two pizzas for around £12. It’s also a bit pricey – but the staff are really lovely.
There’s also a great outside eating space, with plenty of room for kids to wander about – plus a newly renovated park, literally around the corner, so they can be entertained while you eat and drink in peace.
The Lighthouse Restaurant Menu
You can see the current menu here, which I’ve had quite a bit of, and some things are better than others. If you do go, you have to have the ‘Lighthouse Salty Bread’ which was a famous Castellammare favourite. I have no idea what they do to it to make it so delicious but it’s absolutely lovely.
I’ve ordered the chicken tenders as a starter before, at £7.45, I got three very small pieces which made me feel robbed. I also remember feeling disappointed in a burger I had last summer because I didn’t feel the quality of it was that good for the money.
But – the breakfast is great, the baguettes a good shout and the fish and chips pretty decent. I’m keeping on about it, but get the pizza where the dough is made in-house and it’s all baked to order.
Here’s my main gripe with the Lighthouse – there’s next to no fish or shellfish on the menu. Well ok, maybe some fish fingers or prawns on a pizza, but it’s never really embraced the fact the restaurant is on the sea. I want seafood pasta or some seabass as I look out onto the ocean as the sun is setting, but they just don’t do that, and personally think that’s a bit of a shame.
Honestly, considering we’re surrounded by the sea, Swansea doesn’t really have many seafood restaurants – maybe just El Pescador – which is one of my favourite restaurants in the city.
The Lighthouse Restaurant prices
The Lighthouse can be a bit pricey for what you get. The other day, for example, my mate just ordered some chips for the table, which cost £4 and came in a tiny little cup. Absolutely delicious, but very much on the small side.
I do think you’re paying extra for the location, which maybe fair enough. Views-wise, might be the best in the Gower.
The Lighthouse Swansea opening times
The Lighthouse is open
- Sunday to Thursday – 10 am to 6 pm
- Friday to Saturday – 10 am to 8 pm
Is the Lighthouse dog-friendly?
The surrounding areas are absolutely stunning, with hikes and beaches, so if you have your dog with you, it’s the perfect place to stop to catch a breather and have a pint. If you have a guide dog or an emotional support dog, you can take it inside the building.
If you have well-behaved dogs, they can hang out on the terrace outside though.
The Lighthouse Swansea reviews
So you know what I think, but what do the people of Swansea think of The Lighthouse, Swansea? At the time of writing, it has nearly 2,700 Google reviews and comes in with a score of 4.4 out of 5.
Second time I’ve had a stunning meal in this lovely restaurant. Our sever, David was very kind, cheerful and tentative. Absolutely lovely and cosy inside. Music wasn’t too loud and heating was lovely. Food was incredible. So pleased to spend money here.
Recent changes here have resulted in a much nicer experience. The quality of the food has improved and service is excellent. Breakfast/Brunch is served until noon and there is a good choice of items. Coffe is very good.
As eateries go, this is located at an enviable spot with vistas of the Mumbles lighthouse and the sea beyond. Hence the name – lighthouse!
The Bracelet Bay is a wonderful place to visit; you can always stop for a beer and a bite at The Lighthouse. While not really cheap, the food is well prepared. If it’s not raining, I’d sit outside the restaurant, the views are wonderful. There are toilets that are easily accessible from even without entering the eatery.
Hike down to the Mumbles Pier; it takes about 10 minutes.
A place well worth a visit.
So what do you think? Am I right? Wrong? Let me know in the comments below.
Want to know where you can get the best doughnuts in Swansea? I’ve got you covered.
Tried the Lighthouse and want to know where to eat next? Maybe The Mermaid is for you.
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