Wigan football fans will be getting a warm welcome for Swansea's historic first home game

Swansea is looking forward to showing visiting fans everything the area has to offer

View of Mumbles from Oystermouth Castle

Thousands of fans heading for Wigan's first away game of the season can be assured of the warmth of a Welsh welcome in Swansea on Saturday.

Fans making the trip south will be participants in a little bit of history because they'll be witnesses to the first ever Premier League game played at Swansea's Liberty Stadium.

The 20,500 capacity stadium is six years old and the Wigan support are being given the freedom of the newly-named Croeso Stand -  'Croeso' meaning 'Welcome' in the Welsh language.

Wigan manager Roberto Martinez is no stranger to Swansea, but the thousands of fans who will be following him and the team are being offered a helping hand with ideas on where to park their vehicles ahead of the match, what to do and where else to visit in Swansea.

Chris Holley, the Leader of Swansea Council, said: "There is huge excitement right across the city of Swansea about our first home game in the Premier League.

Three Cliffs Bay, south Gower

"And while there will be rivalry on the pitch, Wigan fans can be assured that everyone here is pulling out all the stops to make sure their visit is as special to them as the day will be to us.

"Swansea, Wales' Waterfront City, boasts some excellenthotels, great shopping and probably the best beaches and most picturesque countryside in Britain. We're inviting Wigan fans to stay on after the game or even return with their families another time."

Tony McGetrick, chair of Tourism Swansea Bay, a local tourism businesses organisation added:

"Local tourism businesses are really looking forward to showing visiting fans the sights of Swansea and our wonderful coastline. Whatever the result on the pitch this weekend, there will always be a warm welcome from us."

The Liberty Stadium is situated to the north of the bustling city centre, which is within easy reach via public transport outside the ground.

Eating out in Swansea

To the west is Gower, Britain's first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, boasting secluded sandy beaches, wonderful surfing and greatwalking country.

Fans making their own way south by car should use the specially-organised Park and Ride site just off Junction 46 of the M4. It will be clearly sign-posted. From there it's a short bus ride from the stadium. It costs just £6 for a car and its passengers.

Supporters arriving by train will have the chance to make their way to the stadium door-to-door via public transport from bus stops right next to Swansea railway station.

They'll also be close to the city centre which boasts some great shops, pubs and restaurants for after-the-game entertainment.

Before you travel check out our Fans Corner for all the information you need on how to get to Swansea and what to do when you get here.

The season is nearly here and Football fever for Swansea City Centre as big kick-off looms

Football fever for Swansea City Centre as big kick-off looms

Thursday 11th August will mark the build-up to the new Premier League season

Meet Cyril the Swan

On that day, Swansea City heroes and club mascot Cyril the Swan will be on hand along Swansea's Oxford Street between Top Shop and McDonald's to sign autographs and pose for photos with fans.

The event marks four days until the Swans make their Premier League bow against Manchester City and will also feature a football speed radar game, a rodeo football and street football skill demonstrations.

Play Football Swansea will also be on hand with penalty shooting competitions and Sky TV will be there to promote their coverage of the Premier League.

A children's ride will be available for little ones and water based zorbing has been arranged for the more adventurous.

The event will last from 11am to 5pm but Swans players will be there from approximately 2.30pm.

Show your support for the Swans!

Swansea Council in conjunction with Swansea City Football Club and Swansea BID (Business Improvement District) are behind the fun.

Footage from the Swans victory parade earlier this summer will be shown on the Big Screen and the Wave will be supporting the event with an outdoor broadcast from 1pm to 5pm.

Also, thanks to Swansea Indoor Market there will be an opportunity on the day to win a Swans away shirt and ball signed by all the players.

Black and white Swans-themed bunting will also be put up in the area.

Cllr Chris Holley, Swansea Council Leader, said: "Excitement is reaching fever pitch in Swansea at the moment as the city counts down the days and hours until the match against Manchester City.

"This event will help celebrate everything the Swans have achieved and will benefit city centre traders because of the footfall it will attract."

Russell Greenslade, Swansea BID Chief Executive, said: "'This event is great for the city centre and its businesses who are keen to support the Swans at these exciting times as they enter into the Premiership.

"We'd urge people to take advantage of the free one-hour car parking in all City Centre NCP's and the £1 for four hours deal in High Street car park on the day."

Are you coming to Swansea for a football game? Visit our Fans Corner!