The Big Apple by Beverley Rogers
The Big Apple
by Beverley Rogers
An Independent Researcher and local historian based in Mumbles.Mumbles’ distinctive Big Apple has been one of the village’s most recognisable landmarks for generations – it has appeared on postcards, been painted by local artist Nick Holly and has even earned a mention on TripAdviser!
It has welcomed visitors for many decades, by selling ice-cream, sweets, gifts and drinks from its prominent position over Bracelet Bay.
But did you know that this unusual building - which originally had a long stalk attached to its top - was built in the 1930s by the company Cidatone?
It promoted its apple drink with the slogan “Drink your apple a day!” There were several apple kiosks placed around Wales and England’s coastal towns as part of a wide promotional campaign, including one at Aberavon, Porthcawl, Trecco Bay and Barry. The Mumbles Big Apple is believed to be the only survivor, which makes it unique!
The Porthcawl Big Apple has now disappeared
Image: Courtesy of Kenneth Townsend and Robert Griffiths - Swansea and its History website
The concrete building has had a couple of mishaps to it along the way. In 2006 it was painted orange by pranksters. Then in 2009, a ford fiesta ran into its front causing extensive damage. After the accident, around 27,000 people backed a campaign on Facebook to safeguard its future, and it underwent specialist repairwork. At its reopening, the Assembly health minister and Gower AM at the time, Edwina Hart, cut the ribbon at the kiosk before handing out free apples.
In 2019, after a campaign by local supporters, the Big Apple was granted listed building status. Cadw described the elliptical building as having “special architectural interest” and was recognised as being an iconic feature from the heyday of seaside entertainment.
Ameco, the company which also runs the Mumbles Pier, now owns this rare and unusual example of a seaside kiosk and well known Mumbles landmark.
Old Postcard of Porthcawl – the Big Apple can be seen far left by the entrance to Coney Beach.
The Big Apple greets you after passing through the cutting.
Previously Published in Mumbles Times, Aug/Sept 2020
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'The Big Apple' views
A view of Bracelet Bay from The Big Apple
On the southern side of Bracelet Bay is Castellammare Restaurant and modern cafe, which has plenty of outdoor seating and stunning views of the bay, with lighthouse in the background. (From the end of 2022, The Castellammare Restaurant is now named The Lighthouse Brasserie).