Outer Head, Worm's Head - Dramatic Tidal Island of Gower Peninsula
Explore Outer Head, the wild western tip of Worm's Head, a tidal island of dramatic cliffs, caves, and rich history on Wales’ Gower Peninsula.
Outer Head is the westernmost island of Worm's Head, a striking tidal promontory on the Gower Peninsula near Swansea, Wales. Accessible only at low tide via a natural causeway, this rugged limestone island features dramatic cliffs, sea caves including the famous Devil’s Bridge, and a powerful blowhole. Rich in prehistoric and medieval history, it offers breathtaking coastal scenery and a unique natural experience shaped by tides and Atlantic weather.
A brief summary to Outer Head
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Check tide times carefully before visiting to avoid being stranded on the island by the incoming tide.
- Wear sturdy footwear suitable for rocky, uneven terrain and slippery surfaces near sea caves.
- Visit during clear weather for the best views and to safely explore the blowhole and Devil’s Bridge.
- Bring a camera to capture the dramatic coastal scenery and natural rock formations.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take the bus from Swansea city center to Rhossili village, a journey of approximately 1 hour 15 minutes. Services run several times daily but are limited on weekends. From Rhossili, the Outer Head causeway is accessible on foot during low tide. No direct public transport to the island itself.
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Car
Drive from Swansea to Rhossili village in about 40 minutes via A4118 and local roads. Parking is available in Rhossili village but limited, especially in peak seasons. From the village, walk to the tidal causeway to Outer Head, timing your visit around low tide.
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Walking
From Rhossili village, a scenic 20–30 minute walk along coastal paths leads to the Worm's Head causeway. The terrain is uneven and can be slippery near the shore, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Access to Outer Head is only safe during low tide windows.
Outer Head location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Outer Head
Geological Majesty and Natural Formation
Outer Head forms the farthest tip of the Worm's Head tidal island, part of the Gower Peninsula’s carboniferous limestone coastline. This rugged outcrop is connected to the mainland by a rocky causeway that is submerged at high tide, making access possible only for a few hours around low tide. The island’s steep cliffs plunge dramatically into the Atlantic, and its coastline is sculpted by sea caves and blowholes. The Devil’s Bridge, a natural rock arch formed by the collapse of a sea cave, links parts of the island, creating a striking geological feature that visitors can traverse during low tides.Historical and Archaeological Significance
Worm's Head, including Outer Head, has a long human history stretching back thousands of years. Archaeological finds such as prehistoric human remains and Iron Age hillfort remains attest to its ancient significance. Defensive walls from the Iron Age still survive on the island’s southern slopes, indicating its strategic importance. The name 'Worm' derives from Old English 'wyrm,' meaning sea serpent or dragon, reflecting local folklore and the island’s serpentine shape. The island’s caves and rugged terrain have inspired legends and attracted literary figures, notably Dylan Thomas, who found creative inspiration in its wild, elemental landscape.Ecological and Environmental Character
The Outer Head and its surroundings are part of the Gower Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, supporting diverse coastal flora and fauna. The limestone cliffs provide nesting sites for seabirds, while the tidal pools and caves shelter marine life adapted to the harsh Atlantic conditions. The island’s exposed position subjects it to powerful winds and waves, creating a dynamic environment shaped by natural forces. Visitors can experience the raw power of the sea, especially at the blowhole where surging waves force water and air through a narrow rock fissure, producing a spectacular natural display.Visitor Experience and Safety Considerations
Exploring Outer Head offers a unique adventure for walkers and nature lovers. The causeway’s tidal nature requires careful timing to avoid being stranded, as the rising tide can quickly cut off access. The terrain is rugged and uneven, with steep cliffs and slippery rocks near the sea caves, demanding caution and good footwear. The island’s isolation and dramatic scenery provide a sense of remoteness and tranquility, ideal for photography, wildlife observation, and contemplative walks. The area is steeped in atmosphere, with sweeping views over Rhossili Bay and the wider Gower coastline.Cultural Resonance and Literary Connections
Worm's Head has long captured the imagination of poets and artists. Dylan Thomas described it as a place of profound otherness and elemental forces, recounting experiences of being caught by the tide and enveloped by the island’s wildness. The island’s evocative landscape has inspired generations, linking natural beauty with cultural heritage. Nearby Rhossili village and the wider Gower Peninsula offer complementary insights into the region’s maritime history, folklore, and enduring appeal as a place of rugged charm.Preservation and Access Management
As part of a protected Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Outer Head is managed to balance visitor access with conservation. Information boards and markers help interpret the site’s natural and historical features. The tidal causeway limits visitor numbers naturally, reducing environmental impact. Visitors are encouraged to respect the fragile coastal ecosystem and observe safety guidelines to preserve this remarkable location for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rhossili Downs
3.9 km
Experience breathtaking coastal panoramas and ancient heritage atop the highest point of Wales' Gower Peninsula.
Whiteford Lighthouse
11.2 km
A rare cast-iron lighthouse standing in the tidal estuary of the Gower Peninsula, reachable only at low tide across vast sands and saltmarsh.
Gorsedd Circle
16.7 km
A modern stone circle in Llanelli celebrating Welsh culture, poetry, and the spirit of the National Eisteddfod.
Glamorgan History Society
23.3 km
Explore Glamorgan’s rich history through dedicated research, publications, and community events at the heart of Swansea’s heritage.
The Baltic Inn & Restaurant
23.6 km
A welcoming countryside inn in Pontyates offering cozy rooms, hearty dining, and a peaceful Welsh village atmosphere.
Delta Hotels Swansea
27.3 km
Stylish waterfront hotel in Swansea’s Maritime Quarter with modern comforts, stunning bay views, and versatile event spaces.
Cwtsh Hostel
27.6 km
Modern, friendly, and centrally located hostel offering comfortable stays and social spaces in the vibrant heart of Swansea.
Premier Inn Swansea City Centre hotel
27.8 km
Comfortable city-centre hotel on vibrant Wind Street, with spacious rooms, tasty dining, and easy access to Swansea’s cultural and coastal highlights.
Cathedral Church of Saint Joseph (Eglwys Gadeirlan Siôseff Sant)
27.8 km
A majestic Gothic Revival cathedral in Swansea, symbolizing faith, history, and community since 1888.
Imperial Hotel, Tenby
27.9 km
Historic hotel on Tenby’s ancient walls with stunning sea views, modern comforts, and a vibrant seaside dining experience.
Tenby Town walls
28.2 km
Explore Tenby’s medieval town walls, a stunning coastal fortress that tells the story of centuries-old Welsh defense and heritage.
Premier Inn Swansea Waterfront hotel
28.5 km
Modern comfort and scenic marina views combine at Premier Inn Swansea Waterfront, your gateway to Swansea’s vibrant coastal charm.
Kilns of Mynyddcerrig
28.6 km
Explore the historic limekilns of Mynyddcerrig, a window into Carmarthenshire’s rural industrial heritage and traditional limeburning craft.
St Clears Castle
29.6 km
Explore the earthwork remains of St Clears Castle, a Norman motte-and-bailey fortress steeped in medieval Welsh history at the rivers’ confluence.
Dyfed Menswear
31.2 km
Explore Llanelli with ease at Dyfed Menswear, a central bus stop connecting you to the town’s vibrant culture and attractions.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rhossili Bay
2.6 km
Experience the breathtaking three-mile sandy beach and iconic tidal island of Rhossili Bay, a natural wonder on Wales’ Gower Peninsula.
National Trust - Rhossili and South Gower Coast
2.9 km
Discover Rhossili’s breathtaking three-mile beach, dramatic cliffs, and iconic Worms Head on Wales’ stunning South Gower Coast.
Wreck of the Helvetia
3.0 km
Discover the haunting remains of the Helvetia, a 19th-century Norwegian barque wrecked on Rhossili Beach amidst the wild beauty of the Gower Peninsula.
Rhossili bay Beach
3.1 km
Discover Rhossili Bay’s stunning three-mile sandy beach, dramatic cliffs, and iconic views on Wales’ breathtaking Gower Peninsula.
Burry Holms
5.1 km
Discover Burry Holms, a tidal island rich in ancient history and stunning coastal views at the northern end of Rhossili Bay.
Weobley Castle
10.6 km
Explore the windswept ruins of Weobley Castle, a fortified medieval manor with stunning views over Gower’s saltmarshes and rich Tudor history.
King Arthur's Stone
11.0 km
Discover the enchanting myth of King Arthur at King Arthur's Stone, a historical landmark where legends meet breathtaking Welsh scenery.
Castell Oxwich
11.4 km
Explore Castell Oxwich, a grand Tudor manor house blending mock-fortified elegance with stunning coastal views on Wales’ Gower Peninsula.
Gower National Landscape
11.7 km
Explore the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where dramatic coastlines, ancient history, and diverse habitats create an unforgettable Welsh landscape.
Pembrey Country Park
13.1 km
Explore 500 acres of award-winning woodlands and an eight-mile Blue Flag beach with family-friendly activities and scenic coastal trails.
Three Cliffs Bay
15.1 km
Discover the wild beauty and iconic limestone cliffs of Three Cliffs Bay, a serene coastal escape on Wales’ Gower Peninsula.
Giant's Grave
15.4 km
Explore a 6,000-year-old Neolithic chambered tomb nestled in a tranquil Welsh valley, revealing ancient burial rites and prehistoric heritage.
Pobbles Bay
15.5 km
A hidden limestone cove where effort rewards you with solitude, soft sand, and sweeping coastal views.
Pennard Castle
15.9 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Pennard Castle perched above Three Cliffs Bay, where medieval history meets wild coastal beauty and shifting sands.
Plas Llanelly House
17.7 km
Explore Llanelli’s finest Georgian townhouse, a beautifully restored heritage site blending history, architecture, and vibrant cultural experiences.
Essential places to dine
Beach House Restaurant
11.8 km
Michelin-starred fine dining with stunning Oxwich Bay views, showcasing the best of Welsh seasonal produce in a rustic-chic beachside setting.
Fredricks Bar & Brasserie
16.5 km
Relax and dine in style with stunning golf course views at Fredricks Bar & Brasserie, Llanelli’s refined yet welcoming culinary spot.
Inn At The Sticks
23.3 km
A historic Welsh inn blending innovative local cuisine, warm hospitality, and cozy accommodation in the scenic village of Llansteffan.
The Lighthouse Bar & Kitchen And Lounge
24.2 km
Seaside dining with stunning views, fresh flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Mumbles, Swansea.
The Farmers Arms
25.3 km
A cozy Welsh country pub in Llanybri offering hearty traditional dishes, warm hospitality, and a charming rural atmosphere.
The Bird In Hand
25.8 km
A welcoming country pub in Swansea offering hearty British fare, friendly service, and a lively bar in a family-friendly setting.
The Secret Beach Bar & Kitchen
25.8 km
A vibrant modern British beachside bar and kitchen with stunning Swansea Bay views and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Garden Room Restaurant
26.2 km
A bright, plant-filled restaurant inside Pontarddulais Garden Centre, serving generous British classics and Sunday roasts in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
Lezzet Authentic Restaurant
26.7 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine in a bright, welcoming setting with expertly crafted dishes and attentive service in Swansea.
Morgans Restaurant
27.9 km
Elegant European dining and refined bar experiences in a historic Swansea hotel near the marina and city centre.
Billycan
28.0 km
A stylish restaurant and boutique hotel in Tenby offering generous portions, fresh flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere near the beach.
Stables Restaurant
28.1 km
Historic charm meets vibrant British seafood cuisine in Tenby’s beloved Stables Restaurant, where simple food is beautifully prepared.
The River House
28.3 km
Scenic waterfront dining with seasonal modern European cuisine and award-winning cocktails in Swansea’s vibrant SA1 district.
Rhosyn Restaurant at Penally Abbey
29.0 km
Experience refined modern British tapas in the historic elegance of Penally Abbey’s charming Rhosyn Restaurant.
Penally Abbey
29.0 km
Historic country house hotel and restaurant with stunning Carmarthen Bay views, blending rich heritage and boutique luxury near Tenby.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Parc Pemberton Retail Park
18.9 km
Llanelli’s vibrant retail park offering leading brands, leisure spots, and easy access near Parc Y Scarlets stadium.
Choices
24.5 km
Choices is a charming gift shop in Laugharne offering unique local crafts and souvenirs in a welcoming atmosphere, open daily from 9am to 5pm.
Quadrant Shopping Centre
27.3 km
Swansea's covered shopping destination blending high street chains with independent boutiques in a modern, accessible setting.
The Nook
27.9 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and unique gifts in Tenby’s charming boutique, The Nook, where local artistry meets coastal inspiration.
Joys Of Tenby
28.0 km
Explore Joys Of Tenby, a charming gift shop offering unique souvenirs that capture the essence of this beautiful coastal town.
The Welsh Gift Shop
28.1 km
Discover authentic Welsh crafts and heritage treasures in the heart of Tenby at The Welsh Gift Shop.
Treasures Of Munro
28.8 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts, beauty products, and charming souvenirs at Treasures Of Munro, a cozy boutique in the heart of Tumble, Llanelli.
Mermaid Gift Shop
30.1 km
Discover unique local crafts and charming gifts at Mermaid Gift Shop, a cozy seaside treasure in Saundersfoot’s vibrant coastal village.
Elements of Pembrokeshire
30.1 km
Discover unique local crafts and heartfelt souvenirs at Elements of Pembrokeshire, nestled in the charming seaside village of Saundersfoot.
The Outlet
30.1 km
Discover stylish bargains and coastal charm at The Outlet, Saundersfoot’s premier clothing shop on The Strand.
Harbour Gifts
30.1 km
Discover unique local crafts and coastal treasures at Harbour Gifts, Saundersfoot’s charming boutique for memorable souvenirs.
Wax 2 Relax
30.1 km
Discover handcrafted candles, bespoke perfumes, and unique local crafts in a cozy Morriston boutique that celebrates artisan creativity.
The Original Factory Shop (St Clears)
30.5 km
Discover unbeatable discounts on beauty, fashion, and footwear at The Original Factory Shop in St Clears, your local bargain destination.
Welsh Slate & Gift Boutique
30.9 km
Explore the charm of Wales at the Welsh Slate & Gift Boutique, where unique handcrafted slate treasures and local gifts await your discovery.
Obsessive Koi Disorder
31.0 km
A vibrant Swansea shop blending koi fish expertise with unique aquatic-themed gifts and apparel for enthusiasts and pond keepers alike.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Uplands Tavern
25.9 km
Experience the vibrant local spirit and classic British pub charm at Swansea’s Uplands Tavern, a lively hub for great drinks and live music.
Noah's Yard
25.9 km
Discover Swansea’s quirky Noah's Yard—a vibrant bar blending artistic charm, live jazz, and a welcoming community spirit.
Maltsters Arms
27.3 km
Cozy and vibrant pub in Swansea’s Cwmbwrla, offering local ales, hearty food, and a warm community atmosphere.
Hogarths
27.6 km
Discover Hogarths Swansea, a lively Victorian gin palace offering over 120 gins, cozy booths, and a vibrant city centre atmosphere.
The Perch
27.7 km
Experience Swansea’s energetic live music scene and rustic charm at The Perch, Wind Street’s vibrant bar with cocktails and great vibes.
No Sign Wine Bar
27.7 km
A cozy, character-rich Swansea pub blending real ales, live music, and acclaimed Sunday lunches in the heart of Wind Street.
Bambu Beach Bar
27.7 km
Experience Swansea’s vibrant Latin tiki nightlife with tropical cocktails, rooftop dancing, and unforgettable party vibes at Bambu Beach Bar.
Peppermint
27.8 km
Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant nightlife, and exclusive VIP lounges in the heart of Swansea’s city centre.
Pump House
27.9 km
Classic British pub fare and refreshing drinks with stunning views of Swansea Marina in a lively, dog-friendly setting.
The Lifeboat Tavern Tenby
27.9 km
Experience Tenby’s maritime charm at The Lifeboat Tavern, a quirky pub with a lifeboat bar and welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the seaside town.
Bar 10
28.0 km
Lively coastal bar in Tenby offering wood-fired pizzas, vibrant atmosphere, and a welcoming spot near historic beaches and harbor.
The Five Arches Tavern
28.0 km
Traditional Welsh pub with a roaring fire, hearty fare, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of historic Tenby.
The Bush Inn
28.0 km
A cozy, historic pub nestled in Tenby’s medieval walls, offering friendly vibes, local ales, and a genuine Welsh drinking experience.
The Cove
28.1 km
A vibrant gastropub in Tenby offering quality food, lively events, and a welcoming atmosphere on the historic High Street.
Twisted Shamrock
28.1 km
A lively Irish pub in Tenby’s Town Wall Arcade, offering karaoke, cocktails, and a fun night out in a cozy, spirited setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Adventurous
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
- Seasonal Only
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Pet Friendly
