Whiteford Lighthouse
A rare cast-iron lighthouse standing in the tidal estuary of the Gower Peninsula, reachable only at low tide across vast sands and saltmarsh.
Standing half a mile into the Loughor estuary on the Gower Peninsula, Whiteford Lighthouse is the only large wave-swept cast-iron lighthouse in Britain. Built in 1865, this Grade II* listed tower marks shifting shoals and now stands as a striking relic of Victorian maritime engineering. Accessible only at low tide, the lighthouse rises from a concrete and masonry base, its iron plates bolted together in a rare external-flange design. Surrounded by saltmarsh, dunes and wild ponies, it offers a dramatic, atmospheric walk across Whiteford Sands.
A brief summary to Whiteford Lighthouse
- Swansea, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Check tide times carefully and aim to arrive at the lighthouse about an hour before low tide; the walk is long and the tide comes in quickly, so plan your return well in advance.
- Wear sturdy walking shoes or boots that you don’t mind getting wet and sandy; the path includes sand, shingle and a rocky causeway that can be slippery and uneven.
- Respect the warning signs about unexploded ordnance; stay on marked paths and avoid touching or moving any suspicious objects on the beach or dunes.
- Bring binoculars and a camera; the lighthouse is photogenic at all times, and the surrounding saltmarsh and dunes are excellent for birdwatching and landscape photography.
- Visit on a clear day for the best views across the Loughor estuary and towards Burry Port; a spring low tide offers the best chance of reaching the base of the lighthouse.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drinking Water
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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On foot from Llanmadoc
From the village of Llanmadoc, follow the footpath through woodland and dunes to Whiteford Sands. The walk to the lighthouse at low tide takes about 1–1.5 hours each way, over sand, shingle and a rocky causeway. Wear sturdy footwear and allow extra time for the tide.
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From Llanmorlais
From Llanmorlais, follow the coastal path along the northern Gower coast to Whiteford Burrows and Whiteford Sands. The route is about 4–5 km to the start of the beach, then another 2–3 km across the sands to the lighthouse at low tide. Suitable for experienced walkers in good weather.
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By car to local car park
Drive to a local car park near Llanmadoc or Llanmorlais, then walk the remaining distance to Whiteford Sands. There is no direct parking at the beach; the final approach is on foot through dunes and across the beach to the lighthouse.
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Public transport and walk
Take a bus to Llanmorlais or Llanmadoc, then follow footpaths through woodland and dunes to Whiteford Sands. The total walk to the lighthouse at low tide is around 5–6 km each way, over varied terrain including sand and shingle.
Whiteford Lighthouse location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Whiteford Lighthouse
A cast-iron sentinel in the estuary
Whiteford Lighthouse, also known as Whitford Point Lighthouse, is a rare survivor of 19th‑century lighthouse design: a large, wave‑swept cast‑iron tower standing in British coastal waters. Completed in 1865 to mark the shoals of Whiteford Point at the northern tip of the Gower Peninsula, it replaced an earlier wooden‑pile beacon that had proved too vulnerable to storms. The tower’s shell is made of heavy cast‑iron plates bolted together with external flanges, a distinctive construction method that facilitated assembly during the short low‑water windows available at the site. Rising about 13.4 metres (44 feet) from a concrete and masonry base, the lighthouse was designed to be partially submerged at high tide, making it a true offshore beacon.Engineering and operation
The lighthouse was commissioned by the Llanelli Harbour and Burry Navigation Commissioners to guide vessels safely into the Loughor estuary and Llanelli. Its seven rings of cast‑iron plates sit on a foundation of timber piles driven into glacial moraine, with later reinforcements added in the 1870s and 1880s to address cracking. Originally, the light was shown from half‑flood to half‑ebb, visible for about 9 nautical miles, and operated by keepers who reached the tower at low water via a now‑eroded causeway. There were no permanent living quarters beyond a basic living room; keepers likely worked in shifts from the mainland. The light was formally discontinued in 1921, though it was briefly relit in the 1980s before being permanently decommissioned.A walk through nature to a historic relic
The lighthouse lies within the Whiteford and North Gower area, part of a National Trust‑managed landscape of saltmarsh, dunes and woodland. Visitors approach across Whiteford Sands, a vast, sweeping beach backed by dunes and marsh, where wild ponies and sheep graze and birds such as curlew and snipe feed in the tidal flats. The walk to the lighthouse is long and exposed, crossing sand, shingle and a rocky causeway at the edge of the estuary. At low tide, the lighthouse becomes reachable on foot, but the window is narrow and the tide comes in quickly, so careful timing is essential. The surrounding area is also marked by reminders of its wartime past, with occasional warning signs about unexploded ordnance from its time as an army firing range.Preservation and atmosphere
Today, Whiteford Lighthouse is a Grade II* listed building and a Scheduled Ancient Monument, recognised as a nationally important example of 19th‑century lighthouse engineering. The tower’s domed roof is now partially collapsed, with the lantern floor fallen into the living room below, but its iron structure remains a powerful presence against the sky and sea. The lighthouse is not open to the public, but its exterior and immediate surroundings can be explored at low tide. The combination of industrial heritage, dramatic tidal conditions and wild coastal scenery gives the site a unique, slightly haunting atmosphere, especially at dawn or dusk when the light catches the iron plates and the estuary is quiet.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Whiteford Lighthouse
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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
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Rhossili Downs
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The Baltic Inn & Restaurant
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Glamorgan History Society
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Dyfed Menswear
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Cathedral Church of Saint Joseph (Eglwys Gadeirlan Siôseff Sant)
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Delta Hotels Swansea
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Cwtsh Hostel
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Premier Inn Swansea City Centre hotel
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South African War Memorial
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Carmarthen Work House
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Unmissable attractions to see
Weobley Castle
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Explore the windswept ruins of Weobley Castle, a fortified medieval manor with stunning views over Gower’s saltmarshes and rich Tudor history.
Burry Holms
6.4 km
Discover Burry Holms, a tidal island rich in ancient history and stunning coastal views at the northern end of Rhossili Bay.
Plas Llanelly House
7.1 km
Explore Llanelli’s finest Georgian townhouse, a beautifully restored heritage site blending history, architecture, and vibrant cultural experiences.
Amgueddfa Parc Howard - Parc Howard Museum
7.5 km
Discover Llanelli’s industrial heritage and famed pottery collections in the historic and welcoming Parc Howard Museum.
King Arthur's Stone
8.2 km
Discover the enchanting myth of King Arthur at King Arthur's Stone, a historical landmark where legends meet breathtaking Welsh scenery.
Gower National Landscape
8.4 km
Explore the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where dramatic coastlines, ancient history, and diverse habitats create an unforgettable Welsh landscape.
Rhossili bay Beach
8.7 km
Discover Rhossili Bay’s stunning three-mile sandy beach, dramatic cliffs, and iconic views on Wales’ breathtaking Gower Peninsula.
WWT Llanelli Wetland Centre
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Rhossili Bay
9.0 km
Experience the breathtaking three-mile sandy beach and iconic tidal island of Rhossili Bay, a natural wonder on Wales’ Gower Peninsula.
Wreck of the Helvetia
9.2 km
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National Trust - Rhossili and South Gower Coast
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Castell Cydweli / Kidwelly Castle
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Worm's Head
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Giant's Grave
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Loughor Castle
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Essential places to dine
Fredricks Bar & Brasserie
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Beach House Restaurant
12.3 km
Michelin-starred fine dining with stunning Oxwich Bay views, showcasing the best of Welsh seasonal produce in a rustic-chic beachside setting.
The Bird In Hand
15.5 km
A welcoming country pub in Swansea offering hearty British fare, friendly service, and a lively bar in a family-friendly setting.
Inn At The Sticks
16.4 km
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Garden Room Restaurant
16.7 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
18.3 km
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The Farmers Arms
18.6 km
A cozy Welsh country pub in Llanybri offering hearty traditional dishes, warm hospitality, and a charming rural atmosphere.
Abadam Arms
20.1 km
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The Butchers Arms
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The Secret Beach Bar & Kitchen
20.2 km
A vibrant modern British beachside bar and kitchen with stunning Swansea Bay views and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Hollol Gymraeg
20.7 km
Discover authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality at Hollol Gymraeg, a family-run culinary gem near Carmarthen.
The Lighthouse Bar & Kitchen And Lounge
21.0 km
Seaside dining with stunning views, fresh flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Mumbles, Swansea.
Morgans Restaurant
22.0 km
Elegant European dining and refined bar experiences in a historic Swansea hotel near the marina and city centre.
The River House
22.3 km
Scenic waterfront dining with seasonal modern European cuisine and award-winning cocktails in Swansea’s vibrant SA1 district.
Dexters
22.8 km
Savor premium locally sourced steaks and scenic estuary views at Dexters Steakhouse & Grill in Carmarthen’s inviting riverside setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Parc Pemberton Retail Park
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Llanelli’s vibrant retail park offering leading brands, leisure spots, and easy access near Parc Y Scarlets stadium.
Treasures Of Munro
17.6 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts, beauty products, and charming souvenirs at Treasures Of Munro, a cozy boutique in the heart of Tumble, Llanelli.
Choices
19.6 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.
Welsh Slate & Gift Boutique
19.7 km
Explore the charm of Wales at the Welsh Slate & Gift Boutique, where unique handcrafted slate treasures and local gifts await your discovery.
Little Shop of Wishes
20.3 km
Bespoke personalised keepsakes and decorations crafted in South Wales for every celebration.
Quadrant Shopping Centre
21.4 km
Swansea's covered shopping destination blending high street chains with independent boutiques in a modern, accessible setting.
Dunelm
22.2 km
Explore a vast selection of homewares and furnishings at Dunelm Carmarthen, your local destination for stylish and practical living solutions.
Wax 2 Relax
22.5 km
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The Range, Carmarthen
22.6 km
Your one-stop homeware destination in South Wales with furniture, décor, garden supplies, and more.
One of a Find
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TK Maxx
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Merlin's Walk Shopping Centre
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A vibrant Carmarthen shopping centre blending local legend, specialty stores, and convenient access for a welcoming retail experience.
Poundland
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Nomads
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Weird Fish Carmarthen
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Quality casual clothing in Wales's oldest town, where legend meets modern retail.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mansel Arms
19.2 km
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Uplands Tavern
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Noah's Yard
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The Prince Of Wales
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Maltsters Arms
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The Wern Inn
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Ivorites Arms
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Hogarths
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The Perch
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No Sign Wine Bar
21.8 km
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Bambu Beach Bar
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Peppermint
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Pump House
22.1 km
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Caraway
22.1 km
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The Ship Inn
22.2 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club
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Sin City
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Cuba Escape
21.2 km
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PlanB
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Popworld - Swansea
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Lucifer's Nightlife
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Experience Carmarthen's vibrant nightlife and fast food fusion at Lucifer's Nightlife, where music, dancing, and late-night bites come alive on Queen Street.
Savannah's Night Club
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Experience Carmarthen’s vibrant nightlife at Savannah's Night Club—where music, dance, and stylish vibes create unforgettable Saturday nights.
The Arch Bar & Nightclub
30.6 km
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Hazewell Club
31.0 km
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Prince Of Wales
31.1 km
Tenby’s iconic late-night nightclub blending lively music, classic charm, and a spirited atmosphere in the heart of Town Wall Arcade.
Sands Nightclub
31.6 km
Saundersfoot’s lively nightclub with dance, drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere near the beach.
Jimmy's Bar
33.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and live music scene at Jimmy's Bar, Port Talbot’s lively local hotspot with a welcoming atmosphere.
Comlongon
36.3 km
Experience vibrant nightlife in the charming village of St Florence with Comlongon, Tenby’s energetic nightclub gem.
The Top Club
45.7 km
Experience Blaengarw’s vibrant nightlife at The Top Club, where electrifying entertainment meets community spirit in the heart of South Wales.
Paddles
46.0 km
Experience Pembroke’s vibrant nightlife at Paddles, the go-to nightclub for late-night music, drinks, and social energy in the town center.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
