Hollywood actress Catherine Zeta-Jones has shared her top five favourite places in Wales, naming Johnnies Fish & Chips in Mumbles among them. The Swansea-born star, who spent much of her childhood in the city and the nearby seaside village of Mumbles before moving to London aged 16 to pursue her acting career, included the traditional takeaway restaurant on her list.
Five Destinations Across South Wales
Despite spending much of her adult life away from Wales, Zeta-Jones has maintained close connections with her home country. She and her husband, actor Michael Douglas, have also made sure their two children spend several weeks each year visiting relatives in Wales. Speaking about her connection to the country, she said her parents, brother and extended family still live there, adding that she feels closely connected to Wales despite having spent so much time abroad.
Among the places she recommends are five destinations across south Wales: Joe's Ice Cream, Worms Head, Cardiff Castle, Celtic Manor Resort, and Johnnies Fish & Chips.
Joe's Ice Cream and Worms Head
Joe's Ice Cream is a well-known Swansea business that features on Zeta-Jones's list. She has previously praised the business's ice cream, describing it as the best she has tried despite having travelled around the world. The ice cream parlour first opened on St Helen's Road in 1922 and is particularly recognised for its Italian-inspired vanilla ice cream, which continues to be made using its original recipe. Over the years, the business has expanded its range to include flavours such as chocolate and raspberry ripple, as well as opening additional locations across the area, including in Mumbles.
Worms Head is a coastal landmark on the Gower Peninsula, approximately 20 miles west of Swansea. The rocky headland stretches out into the sea near Rhossili Bay and is a popular destination for walkers and visitors looking to explore the coastline. Its name is thought to originate from an Old Norse word meaning dragon or sea monster. Visitors can reach the headland by crossing a natural causeway, although access is dependent on the tides as the route becomes submerged at high tide. Zeta-Jones recommends the walk for its coastal views and surrounding wildlife, particularly the sheep found in the area. She also suggested visiting nearby Three Cliffs Bay, known for its wide sandy beach and striking coastal scenery.
Cardiff Castle and Celtic Manor Resort
Located in the heart of the Welsh capital, Cardiff Castle is one of the city's most recognisable historic landmarks. The site has a history stretching back almost 2,000 years, with its origins dating to a Roman fort built during the first century. It later developed into a medieval castle before being transformed into a Victorian Gothic residence by the Marquesses of Bute. Today, the castle is open to the public and hosts guided tours and outdoor events, including concerts. Zeta-Jones has praised the restoration of the historic building, particularly its preserved interiors, and highlighted its role as a venue for outdoor entertainment.
The Celtic Manor Resort in Newport is another destination recommended by the actress, particularly for those interested in golf. Located around 17 miles north-east of Cardiff, the resort is home to three championship golf courses and is internationally recognised for hosting the 2010 Ryder Cup. Zeta-Jones, who is an enthusiastic golfer, attended the tournament's opening ceremony in 2010. She has singled out the Twenty Ten Course, which was specifically designed for the competition, as a particularly special place to play. Although she described the course as challenging for amateur golfers, she said playing there was an experience in itself. The resort has since continued to attract golfers and visitors, offering accommodation, restaurants, spa facilities and leisure activities alongside its golf courses.
Johnnies Fish & Chips in Mumbles
Located in Mumbles, Johnnies Fish & Chips is a traditional takeaway restaurant which has become one of Zeta-Jones's favourite places to visit when she returns to the area. The restaurant is situated close to where her parents live, making it a familiar stop during her visits to the area. The actress particularly enjoys its cod, which she prefers served with salt and vinegar rather than tartar sauce. She has also spoken about its relaxed atmosphere, describing how customers are often willing to queue outside regardless of the weather.
