Open top buses have held a special place in British hearts for over 100 years - back when buses were built without a roof - and are a mega-popular choice with bustling city-centre sightseeing tours. But here in Wales they’re also a magical, affordable, wind-in-your-hair way of leaving the crowds behind and seeing and experiencing our stunning coastline.

This August First Cymru not only have their favourite Mumbles and Porthcawl Coaster routes running a full service, but two new stunners – Aberavon and Tenby.

One ticket lets you hop on and hop off, ride all day and see everything you fancy on the route. From £5 for adults or from £15 for a group of five and running regularly throughout the days stated below, here are four ways to roll this Summer…

Most people jump on at Tenby (South Parade) but if you’re further east, the early morning Coaster leaves Haverfordwest Bus Station at 8.23am stopping at Slebech, Bluestone, Oakwood and Tenby’s Leisure Centre before picking everyone else up at South Parade an hour later.

Tenby is, of course, Wales’ super-popular walled seaside town with beaches, boat trips, art galleries and shops. From here, the open topper rolls down to the mid-way village of New Hedges on its first leg of the journey. Many walkers jump off at this stop to enjoy a 5km circular walk (rugged and not for the flip-flopped) which takes in a lovely mile section of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path offering stunning views of the beaches of Waterwynch Bay and Monkstone. If you’re after something lazier, stay on board and move on non-stop to Saundersfoot for the sandy beaches, boat trips and tea-time snacks. Perfect.

This open-air, open-up-Mumbles treat leaves Swansea Bus Station and heads to the shores via Swansea Marina stopping at Blackpill Lido. Ideal for families who want to jump off at this waterpark to soak up sun and views and free paddles and play before jumping back on again. Everyone else can head straight to Mumbles’ historic Oystermouth Square. Many visitors land at Oystermouth to enjoy the Dylan Thomas trail, or to explore the Norman Oystermouth Castle. This is just five minutes from the bus stop if you want to wander and take in the views or explore inside. Or you can stroll the mile along the coast to Mumbles Pier, which is packed with lively attractions. But it doesn’t end here. Catch the next Coaster that comes along to complete the day at Bracelet Bay at Mumbles Head, its atmospheric rocky shorelines and view of the lighthouse the perfect final stop for an ice-cream before heading home…

You can jump on and off this circular route throughout the day. Running in partnership with Visit Bridgend and Trecco Bay Holiday Park, it leaves the latter (and Porthcawl’s Esplanade 10 minutes later) at regular intervals before rolling along to the lovely beaches and beautiful clean waters of Porthcawl’s Blue Flag Rest Bay beach. This is perfect for those who want to bask in the sun, build sandcastles or explore rock pools. If you’re after more of an adventure you can head to the Bay’s state-of-the-art water sports centre and try a surf or paddle board class, a beach-based workshop or simply hire a bike and follow one of their lovely trails. Pre-booking is required for activities. You can head home when you’re ready or jump back on and off the Coaster at the next stop if you fancy some tea or eats at the Esplanade Hotel. Enjoy!

Last but certainly not least, this simple, 50-minute circular route from Port Talbot is clearly a favourite for those fancying a coastal experience from the comfort of a seat, as it motors along the seafront at Aberavon. You can, of course, jump on and off (eg at Apollo Leisure or Sandfields) for fun, food and games. Just the ticket.

For more information about Coasters this summer visit: https://www.firstbus.co.uk/south-west-wales/routes-and-maps/cymru-coasters