Burry Holms: The Tidal Island of Ancient Heritage and Coastal Beauty
Discover Burry Holms, a tidal island rich in ancient history and stunning coastal views at the northern end of Rhossili Bay.
Burry Holms is a small tidal island at the northern end of Rhossili Bay on the Gower Peninsula, Wales. Known for its rich archaeological history, it features Mesolithic stone tools, Bronze Age burial mounds, and Iron Age fortifications. Accessible only around low tide, it offers visitors dramatic coastal views, ruins of a 6th-century chapel, and a unique natural environment blending history with scenic beauty.
A brief summary to Burry Holms
- GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Check tide times carefully before planning your visit to ensure safe access to the island.
- Wear sturdy footwear suitable for sandy and rocky terrain.
- Bring water and snacks as there are no facilities on the island itself.
- Respect the archaeological sites and natural environment by following Leave-No-Trace principles.
- Visit during mild weather for the best experience of panoramic coastal views and wildflowers.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Walking
Access Burry Holms on foot from Llangennith Beach during low tide, approximately 2.5 hours before and after. The walk involves crossing sandy beach and dunes, requiring good footwear and awareness of tide schedules. The walk from the nearest car parks takes about 20-30 minutes.
-
Car
Park at Llangennith Beach car parks located north or south of the beach. Parking is free or low cost but limited during peak seasons. From the car park, proceed on foot to the beach access point for Burry Holms.
-
Public Transport
Take local bus services to Llangennith village from Swansea or nearby towns. Bus frequency varies, with travel times ranging from 30 to 60 minutes depending on origin. From the village, walk approximately 1.5 km to Llangennith Beach to access the island.
Burry Holms location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Windy Conditions
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Burry Holms
Ancient Roots and Archaeological Significance
Burry Holms is steeped in history, with evidence of human activity dating back to the Mesolithic period. Archaeological finds include microliths—small stone spear points used by Stone Age hunters—indicating the island was once a vital hunting and fishing camp. The island's lower sea levels during that era meant it was not an island but a prominent inland hill, ideal for early settlers. Later periods left their mark as well, including a Bronze Age burial mound and an Iron Age fort complete with defensive ditches and banks. These layers of history reveal Burry Holms as a place of continuous human presence and strategic importance over millennia.Medieval Heritage and Religious Remnants
Among Burry Holms’ most evocative features are the ruins of St. Cennydd's Chapel, dating back to the 6th century. This small chapel offers a glimpse into the island’s medieval spiritual life and is a poignant reminder of the island’s role beyond just a natural landmark. The chapel ruins sit quietly amid the wild landscape, inviting reflection on the centuries of worship and solitude experienced here.Natural Environment and Coastal Landscape
Situated at the northern tip of Rhossili Bay, Burry Holms is a tidal island accessible only during low tide, approximately 2.5 hours before and after. Its limestone composition and grassy terrain create a striking contrast against the expansive sandy beach and the iconic Worms Head peninsula nearby. The island’s elevated position, reaching about 30 meters (98 feet), offers panoramic views of the bay and surrounding coastline, making it a favorite spot for scenic walks and nature observation. Seabirds and seasonal wildflowers add to the island’s tranquil and vibrant atmosphere.Visitor Experience and Practical Considerations
Visitors to Burry Holms should plan their visit around the tides to safely access the island on foot from Llangennith Beach. The walk across sand dunes and beach terrain requires suitable footwear and awareness of tidal times to avoid being stranded. Facilities are limited on the island itself, with basic amenities such as restrooms and cafes available at nearby Llangennith Beach car parks. The island’s exposed location means weather conditions can change rapidly, so preparation for wind and rain is advisable.Cultural and Scenic Importance Today
Today, Burry Holms is cherished both for its archaeological treasures and its natural beauty. It forms part of the Wales Coast Path and is a quieter alternative to the more visited Worms Head. The island’s unique blend of history, geology, and coastal vistas offers an immersive experience for those interested in cultural heritage and the outdoors. It remains a place where visitors can connect with the ancient past while enjoying the serene rhythms of the sea.Preservation and Access Challenges
As a tidal island with significant archaeological sites, Burry Holms requires careful management to protect its fragile heritage and environment. The limited access window imposed by tides helps minimize human impact, but visitors are encouraged to respect the site by following Leave-No-Trace principles. Conservation efforts focus on preserving both the visible ruins and the subtle traces of prehistoric life embedded in the landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rhossili Downs
4.1 km
Experience breathtaking coastal panoramas and ancient heritage atop the highest point of Wales' Gower Peninsula.
Whiteford Lighthouse
6.4 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
12.2 km
A modern stone circle in Llanelli celebrating Welsh culture, poetry, and the spirit of the National Eisteddfod.
The Baltic Inn & Restaurant
18.6 km
A welcoming countryside inn in Pontyates offering cozy rooms, hearty dining, and a peaceful Welsh village atmosphere.
Glamorgan History Society
21.4 km
Explore Glamorgan’s rich history through dedicated research, publications, and community events at the heart of Swansea’s heritage.
Kilns of Mynyddcerrig
23.5 km
Explore the historic limekilns of Mynyddcerrig, a window into Carmarthenshire’s rural industrial heritage and traditional limeburning craft.
Delta Hotels Swansea
25.5 km
Stylish waterfront hotel in Swansea’s Maritime Quarter with modern comforts, stunning bay views, and versatile event spaces.
Cathedral Church of Saint Joseph (Eglwys Gadeirlan Siôseff Sant)
25.6 km
A majestic Gothic Revival cathedral in Swansea, symbolizing faith, history, and community since 1888.
Cwtsh Hostel
25.6 km
Modern, friendly, and centrally located hostel offering comfortable stays and social spaces in the vibrant heart of Swansea.
St Clears Castle
25.7 km
Explore the earthwork remains of St Clears Castle, a Norman motte-and-bailey fortress steeped in medieval Welsh history at the rivers’ confluence.
Premier Inn Swansea City Centre hotel
25.9 km
Comfortable city-centre hotel on vibrant Wind Street, with spacious rooms, tasty dining, and easy access to Swansea’s cultural and coastal highlights.
Dyfed Menswear
26.4 km
Explore Llanelli with ease at Dyfed Menswear, a central bus stop connecting you to the town’s vibrant culture and attractions.
Premier Inn Swansea Waterfront hotel
26.6 km
Modern comfort and scenic marina views combine at Premier Inn Swansea Waterfront, your gateway to Swansea’s vibrant coastal charm.
South African War Memorial
27.5 km
A dignified tribute in Carmarthen’s Guildhall Square commemorating local heroes of the Anglo-Boer War with a striking marble soldier statue.
Imperial Hotel, Tenby
27.5 km
Historic hotel on Tenby’s ancient walls with stunning sea views, modern comforts, and a vibrant seaside dining experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rhossili Bay
3.6 km
Experience the breathtaking three-mile sandy beach and iconic tidal island of Rhossili Bay, a natural wonder on Wales’ Gower Peninsula.
Rhossili bay Beach
3.7 km
Discover Rhossili Bay’s stunning three-mile sandy beach, dramatic cliffs, and iconic views on Wales’ breathtaking Gower Peninsula.
Wreck of the Helvetia
4.2 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.
National Trust - Rhossili and South Gower Coast
4.7 km
Discover Rhossili’s breathtaking three-mile beach, dramatic cliffs, and iconic Worms Head on Wales’ stunning South Gower Coast.
Worm's Head
5.0 km
Experience the wild beauty and tidal adventure of Worm's Head, a dramatic island at Rhossili Bay accessible only at low tide.
Weobley Castle
7.8 km
Explore the windswept ruins of Weobley Castle, a fortified medieval manor with stunning views over Gower’s saltmarshes and rich Tudor history.
Pembrey Country Park
8.1 km
Explore 500 acres of award-winning woodlands and an eight-mile Blue Flag beach with family-friendly activities and scenic coastal trails.
King Arthur's Stone
9.4 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
10.0 km
Explore the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where dramatic coastlines, ancient history, and diverse habitats create an unforgettable Welsh landscape.
Castell Oxwich
11.6 km
Explore Castell Oxwich, a grand Tudor manor house blending mock-fortified elegance with stunning coastal views on Wales’ Gower Peninsula.
Plas Llanelly House
13.3 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
13.8 km
Discover Llanelli’s industrial heritage and famed pottery collections in the historic and welcoming Parc Howard Museum.
Giant's Grave
14.0 km
Explore a 6,000-year-old Neolithic chambered tomb nestled in a tranquil Welsh valley, revealing ancient burial rites and prehistoric heritage.
WWT Llanelli Wetland Centre
14.4 km
Explore 500 acres of rich wetlands, rare wildlife, and family-friendly adventures at WWT Llanelli on the Carmarthenshire coast.
Castell Cydweli / Kidwelly Castle
14.5 km
Explore the majestic Norman fortress of Kidwelly Castle, where medieval history meets stunning Welsh coastal views.
Essential places to dine
Beach House Restaurant
12.0 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
12.7 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
18.8 km
A historic Welsh inn blending innovative local cuisine, warm hospitality, and cozy accommodation in the scenic village of Llansteffan.
The Farmers Arms
20.9 km
A cozy Welsh country pub in Llanybri offering hearty traditional dishes, warm hospitality, and a charming rural atmosphere.
The Bird In Hand
21.7 km
A welcoming country pub in Swansea offering hearty British fare, friendly service, and a lively bar in a family-friendly setting.
Garden Room Restaurant
22.5 km
A bright, plant-filled restaurant inside Pontarddulais Garden Centre, serving generous British classics and Sunday roasts in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
The Lighthouse Bar & Kitchen And Lounge
23.4 km
Seaside dining with stunning views, fresh flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Mumbles, Swansea.
Lezzet Authentic Restaurant
23.6 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine in a bright, welcoming setting with expertly crafted dishes and attentive service in Swansea.
The Secret Beach Bar & Kitchen
24.0 km
A vibrant modern British beachside bar and kitchen with stunning Swansea Bay views and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Morgans Restaurant
26.0 km
Elegant European dining and refined bar experiences in a historic Swansea hotel near the marina and city centre.
The Butchers Arms
26.2 km
A welcoming Welsh country pub in Llanddarog offering traditional oak-beamed charm, local cuisine, and a cozy fireplace.
Abadam Arms
26.2 km
Traditional Welsh pub and cozy B&B in Carmarthen offering hearty home-cooked meals and warm local hospitality in a tranquil rural setting.
The River House
26.3 km
Scenic waterfront dining with seasonal modern European cuisine and award-winning cocktails in Swansea’s vibrant SA1 district.
Hollol Gymraeg
26.3 km
Discover authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality at Hollol Gymraeg, a family-run culinary gem near Carmarthen.
Firehouse Restaurant & Forge Motel
26.4 km
Rustic motel and restaurant in St Clears offering friendly service, hearty meals, and relaxing amenities including sauna and pool.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Parc Pemberton Retail Park
14.8 km
Llanelli’s vibrant retail park offering leading brands, leisure spots, and easy access near Parc Y Scarlets stadium.
Choices
20.6 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.
Treasures Of Munro
24.0 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts, beauty products, and charming souvenirs at Treasures Of Munro, a cozy boutique in the heart of Tumble, Llanelli.
Quadrant Shopping Centre
25.4 km
Swansea's covered shopping destination blending high street chains with independent boutiques in a modern, accessible setting.
Welsh Slate & Gift Boutique
26.0 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
26.6 km
Bespoke personalised keepsakes and decorations crafted in South Wales for every celebration.
The Original Factory Shop (St Clears)
26.6 km
Discover unbeatable discounts on beauty, fashion, and footwear at The Original Factory Shop in St Clears, your local bargain destination.
Dunelm
26.6 km
Explore a vast selection of homewares and furnishings at Dunelm Carmarthen, your local destination for stylish and practical living solutions.
The Range, Carmarthen
27.2 km
Your one-stop homeware destination in South Wales with furniture, décor, garden supplies, and more.
One of a Find
27.4 km
Discover unique vintage gifts and charming home accents at One of a Find, Carmarthen’s beloved boutique on Blue Street.
TK Maxx
27.4 km
Discover unbeatable deals on designer fashion and homeware at TK Maxx Carmarthen, where style meets savings in the heart of Merlin's Walk.
Merlin's Walk Shopping Centre
27.4 km
A vibrant Carmarthen shopping centre blending local legend, specialty stores, and convenient access for a welcoming retail experience.
Wax 2 Relax
27.4 km
Discover handcrafted candles, bespoke perfumes, and unique local crafts in a cozy Morriston boutique that celebrates artisan creativity.
The Nook
27.4 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and unique gifts in Tenby’s charming boutique, The Nook, where local artistry meets coastal inspiration.
Poundland
27.4 km
Affordable everyday essentials and family fashion in the heart of Carmarthen’s Merlin's Walk Shopping Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Uplands Tavern
23.9 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
23.9 km
Discover Swansea’s quirky Noah's Yard—a vibrant bar blending artistic charm, live jazz, and a welcoming community spirit.
Maltsters Arms
25.0 km
Cozy and vibrant pub in Swansea’s Cwmbwrla, offering local ales, hearty food, and a warm community atmosphere.
The Mansel Arms
25.4 km
A traditional Welsh pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and a warm, lively atmosphere in the heart of Carmarthenshire countryside.
Hogarths
25.7 km
Discover Hogarths Swansea, a lively Victorian gin palace offering over 120 gins, cozy booths, and a vibrant city centre atmosphere.
The Perch
25.7 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
25.7 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
25.8 km
Experience Swansea’s vibrant Latin tiki nightlife with tropical cocktails, rooftop dancing, and unforgettable party vibes at Bambu Beach Bar.
Peppermint
25.8 km
Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant nightlife, and exclusive VIP lounges in the heart of Swansea’s city centre.
The Wern Inn
25.9 km
Friendly traditional Swansea pub with hearty food, a lively atmosphere, and a spacious beer garden, newly refurbished in 2025.
Pump House
26.0 km
Classic British pub fare and refreshing drinks with stunning views of Swansea Marina in a lively, dog-friendly setting.
Ivorites Arms
26.2 km
Cozy Welsh pub in Swansea’s Plasmarl offering local ales, hearty food, and warm hospitality in a friendly, inviting atmosphere.
The Ship Inn
26.2 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality and hearty local ales in the cozy, welcoming atmosphere of The Ship Inn in Swansea.
The Prince Of Wales
26.3 km
A traditional Welsh village pub offering hearty food, friendly service, and a warm community atmosphere near Carmarthen.
BeerRiff Brewing co
26.3 km
Discover innovative craft beers and vibrant community spirit at BeerRiff Brewing Co, Swansea’s waterside brewery and taproom.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club
20.3 km
Experience lively nights and vibrant music at The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club, Gorseinon’s premier destination for unforgettable nightlife.
Sin City
25.1 km
Energetic Swansea nightclub with live music, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere on Dillwyn Street.
Cuba Escape
25.2 km
Experience Swansea’s vibrant nightlife at Cuba Escape, where live music, energetic crowds, and a colorful atmosphere come together for unforgettable nights.
PlanB
25.2 km
Swansea’s energetic two-floor nightclub with a focus on dance music, lively DJs, and great drink deals for a night to remember.
Popworld - Swansea
25.7 km
Experience Swansea’s energetic retro nightclub with affordable cocktails, themed events, and a lively dance floor in the heart of the city.
Savannah's Night Club
27.5 km
Experience Carmarthen’s vibrant nightlife at Savannah's Night Club—where music, dance, and stylish vibes create unforgettable Saturday nights.
Lucifer's Nightlife
27.5 km
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.
Prince Of Wales
27.7 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
29.0 km
Saundersfoot’s lively nightclub with dance, drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere near the beach.
Comlongon
32.8 km
Experience vibrant nightlife in the charming village of St Florence with Comlongon, Tenby’s energetic nightclub gem.
The Arch Bar & Nightclub
35.3 km
A lively Neath hotspot blending nightclub energy, live music, pub charm, and Thai cuisine in one vibrant venue.
Jimmy's Bar
36.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and live music scene at Jimmy's Bar, Port Talbot’s lively local hotspot with a welcoming atmosphere.
Paddles
42.4 km
Experience Pembroke’s vibrant nightlife at Paddles, the go-to nightclub for late-night music, drinks, and social energy in the town center.
The Star Club
44.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Star Club, Pembroke Dock's premier bar for unforgettable evenings filled with music, drinks, and fun.
The Top Club
49.9 km
Experience Blaengarw’s vibrant nightlife at The Top Club, where electrifying entertainment meets community spirit in the heart of South Wales.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Seasonal Only
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
