Cwmdonkin Park, Swansea

Cwmdonkin Park, a cherished green space in Swansea, offers a range of recreational amenities and a rich history intertwined with local culture. Established on July 24, 1874, the park was created from land initially used for Cwmdonkin Reservoir, which was developed around 1850 by William Henry Smith and the Swansea Waterworks Company. The transformation of the reservoir into a public park was part of a broader movement to increase access to green spaces, driven by the "Open Spaces Movement" led by William Thomas of Lan. This movement advocated for parks in less affluent areas, responding to criticisms that the original park was situated in a wealthier district.

Today, Cwmdonkin Park boasts a variety of features, including a bandstand, children’s play area, water gardens, tennis courts, and a bowling green. The reservoir itself was filled in during the 1950s and the area was repurposed as a children's play space, further enhancing the park’s appeal to families and visitors of all ages.

The park holds special significance in literary history as the childhood playground of the renowned poet Dylan Thomas. Growing up at 5 Cwmdonkin Drive, adjacent to the park, Thomas drew inspiration from its tranquil surroundings. His connection to the park is evident in his works, including the poignant radio broadcasts “Return Journey” and “Reminiscences of Childhood,” as well as his famous poem “The Hunchback in the Park.” These works reflect the deep influence of the park on his creative expression.

In recognition of Dylan Thomas's connection to the park, a memorial stone with lines from his poem “Fern Hill” was placed in Cwmdonkin Park in 1963. This tribute serves as a lasting reminder of the park’s role in shaping the poet’s life and work, ensuring that both the park’s historical significance and Thomas’s literary legacy continue to be celebrated.