Rhossili Downs: Majestic Clifftop Vistas on the Gower Peninsula
Experience breathtaking coastal panoramas and ancient heritage atop the highest point of Wales' Gower Peninsula.
Rhossili Downs, perched on the southwestern tip of Wales' Gower Peninsula, offers sweeping panoramic views over Rhossili Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. This historic and natural landmark features a Bronze Age cairn, Stone Age burial chambers, and a WWII radar station, set amidst rolling grasslands and dramatic cliffs. It is a favored spot for walkers, hang gliders, and nature lovers seeking tranquil coastal beauty and rich heritage.
A brief summary to Rhossili Downs
- Swansea, Rhossili, GB
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear for the steep paths, especially the descent to Rhossili Bay beach.
- Check tide times before attempting to walk to Worms Head to avoid being stranded.
- National Trust members park for free; otherwise, parking fees apply at the car park.
- Bring a camera for spectacular sunrise or sunset views over the bay and cliffs.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Regular bus services run from Swansea city center to Rhossili village, taking approximately 50 to 70 minutes. Services 118 and 119 operate Monday to Saturday, with limited Sunday service in summer. Note the last bus times and check schedules seasonally.
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Car
Driving from Swansea, expect a 40-minute journey via the A4118 and B4247 roads. Parking is available at the National Trust Rhossili car park with pay-and-display charges (£4 for up to 2 hours, £8 for longer stays). National Trust members park free. The narrow lanes near Rhossili village require careful driving, especially in busy seasons.
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Walking
From the National Trust car park, a well-marked 1 km walk leads to the Beacon summit. The terrain includes steep sections and uneven paths, suitable for walkers with moderate fitness. The coastal path continues along the Downs offering scenic views.
Rhossili Downs 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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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Rhossili Downs
Ancient Heritage and Archaeological Wonders
Rhossili Downs is steeped in deep history, with landmarks that span thousands of years. At its highest point stands the Beacon, a Bronze Age cairn dating back around 4,000 years, serving as a silent sentinel over the landscape. Nearby, the Sweynes Howes Stone Age burial chambers, constructed approximately 6,000 years ago, offer a glimpse into prehistoric ceremonial life. These ancient sites are testament to the long-standing human connection to this dramatic coastal environment.Natural Landscape and Panoramic Views
The Downs stretch over a mile from the village of Rhossili to Hillend, rising to 193 metres, the highest point on the Gower Peninsula. From here, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking vistas across the expansive sandy Rhossili Bay, the rugged limestone coastline, and out to Worms Head, a famous tidal island. The landscape is a mosaic of rolling grasslands, wildflowers, and coastal cliffs, attracting hang gliders and walkers alike who revel in the open skies and fresh Atlantic breeze.World War II Legacy Amidst the Downs
Amid the natural beauty lie remnants of more recent history: the ruins of a Second World War radar station. This installation was part of the early warning system protecting Swansea and the surrounding areas from German air raids. Its remains provide a poignant contrast to the ancient sites nearby, illustrating the Downs’ strategic importance across millennia.Walking Trails and Outdoor Activities
Rhossili Downs is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. The well-marked trails, including a popular 6.5 km loop, offer easy to moderate walks with spectacular coastal views. Paths lead from the National Trust car park past historic St Mary's Church and up to the Beacon, continuing along the ridge and down toward the beach. The steep descent to Rhossili Bay’s golden sands is challenging but rewarding. Hang gliding is a popular activity here, with the Downs providing ideal launch conditions.Conservation and Visitor Facilities
Managed by the National Trust, Rhossili Downs is part of the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, emphasizing its environmental and cultural significance. Facilities include a large pay-and-display car park with accessible toilets and a National Trust shop offering local crafts and souvenirs. Visitors are encouraged to respect the fragile environment, especially the livestock grazing the Downs and the protected archaeological sites.Community and Seasonal Highlights
The small village of Rhossili nearby has a population of just under 300 and offers a peaceful rural atmosphere. Each summer, fields known as “The Vile” bloom with sunflowers, drawing photographers and nature lovers. The area’s mild climate and stunning sunsets make it a perfect destination for day trips and weekend getaways throughout the year.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rhossili Downs
0.0 km
Experience breathtaking coastal panoramas and ancient heritage atop the highest point of Wales' Gower Peninsula.
Whiteford Lighthouse
8.5 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
13.4 km
A modern stone circle in Llanelli celebrating Welsh culture, poetry, and the spirit of the National Eisteddfod.
Glamorgan History Society
19.5 km
Explore Glamorgan’s rich history through dedicated research, publications, and community events at the heart of Swansea’s heritage.
The Baltic Inn & Restaurant
21.2 km
A welcoming countryside inn in Pontyates offering cozy rooms, hearty dining, and a peaceful Welsh village atmosphere.
Delta Hotels Swansea
23.5 km
Stylish waterfront hotel in Swansea’s Maritime Quarter with modern comforts, stunning bay views, and versatile event spaces.
Cwtsh Hostel
23.8 km
Modern, friendly, and centrally located hostel offering comfortable stays and social spaces in the vibrant heart of Swansea.
Cathedral Church of Saint Joseph (Eglwys Gadeirlan Siôseff Sant)
24.0 km
A majestic Gothic Revival cathedral in Swansea, symbolizing faith, history, and community since 1888.
Premier Inn Swansea City Centre hotel
24.0 km
Comfortable city-centre hotel on vibrant Wind Street, with spacious rooms, tasty dining, and easy access to Swansea’s cultural and coastal highlights.
Premier Inn Swansea Waterfront hotel
24.7 km
Modern comfort and scenic marina views combine at Premier Inn Swansea Waterfront, your gateway to Swansea’s vibrant coastal charm.
Kilns of Mynyddcerrig
26.0 km
Explore the historic limekilns of Mynyddcerrig, a window into Carmarthenshire’s rural industrial heritage and traditional limeburning craft.
Dyfed Menswear
28.1 km
Explore Llanelli with ease at Dyfed Menswear, a central bus stop connecting you to the town’s vibrant culture and attractions.
St Clears Castle
29.8 km
Explore the earthwork remains of St Clears Castle, a Norman motte-and-bailey fortress steeped in medieval Welsh history at the rivers’ confluence.
Imperial Hotel, Tenby
30.7 km
Historic hotel on Tenby’s ancient walls with stunning sea views, modern comforts, and a vibrant seaside dining experience.
South African War Memorial
30.9 km
A dignified tribute in Carmarthen’s Guildhall Square commemorating local heroes of the Anglo-Boer War with a striking marble soldier statue.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wreck of the Helvetia
0.9 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
1.3 km
Discover Rhossili’s breathtaking three-mile beach, dramatic cliffs, and iconic Worms Head on Wales’ stunning South Gower Coast.
Rhossili Bay
1.4 km
Experience the breathtaking three-mile sandy beach and iconic tidal island of Rhossili Bay, a natural wonder on Wales’ Gower Peninsula.
Worm's Head
3.4 km
Experience the wild beauty and tidal adventure of Worm's Head, a dramatic island at Rhossili Bay accessible only at low tide.
Burry Holms
4.1 km
Discover Burry Holms, a tidal island rich in ancient history and stunning coastal views at the northern end of Rhossili Bay.
Weobley Castle
6.7 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
7.1 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
7.9 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
8.1 km
Explore Castell Oxwich, a grand Tudor manor house blending mock-fortified elegance with stunning coastal views on Wales’ Gower Peninsula.
Three Cliffs Bay
11.6 km
Discover the wild beauty and iconic limestone cliffs of Three Cliffs Bay, a serene coastal escape on Wales’ Gower Peninsula.
Giant's Grave
11.6 km
Explore a 6,000-year-old Neolithic chambered tomb nestled in a tranquil Welsh valley, revealing ancient burial rites and prehistoric heritage.
Pembrey Country Park
11.7 km
Explore 500 acres of award-winning woodlands and an eight-mile Blue Flag beach with family-friendly activities and scenic coastal trails.
Pobbles Bay
11.9 km
A hidden limestone cove where effort rewards you with solitude, soft sand, and sweeping coastal views.
Pennard Castle
12.3 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
14.2 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
8.6 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
12.8 km
Relax and dine in style with stunning golf course views at Fredricks Bar & Brasserie, Llanelli’s refined yet welcoming culinary spot.
The Lighthouse Bar & Kitchen And Lounge
20.7 km
Seaside dining with stunning views, fresh flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Mumbles, Swansea.
The Secret Beach Bar & Kitchen
22.0 km
A vibrant modern British beachside bar and kitchen with stunning Swansea Bay views and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
The Bird In Hand
22.2 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
22.4 km
A bright, plant-filled restaurant inside Pontarddulais Garden Centre, serving generous British classics and Sunday roasts in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
Inn At The Sticks
22.8 km
A historic Welsh inn blending innovative local cuisine, warm hospitality, and cozy accommodation in the scenic village of Llansteffan.
Lezzet Authentic Restaurant
22.8 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine in a bright, welcoming setting with expertly crafted dishes and attentive service in Swansea.
Morgans Restaurant
24.1 km
Elegant European dining and refined bar experiences in a historic Swansea hotel near the marina and city centre.
The River House
24.4 km
Scenic waterfront dining with seasonal modern European cuisine and award-winning cocktails in Swansea’s vibrant SA1 district.
The Farmers Arms
24.9 km
A cozy Welsh country pub in Llanybri offering hearty traditional dishes, warm hospitality, and a charming rural atmosphere.
Abadam Arms
28.6 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 Butchers Arms
28.7 km
A welcoming Welsh country pub in Llanddarog offering traditional oak-beamed charm, local cuisine, and a cozy fireplace.
Hollol Gymraeg
29.1 km
Discover authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality at Hollol Gymraeg, a family-run culinary gem near Carmarthen.
Firehouse Restaurant & Forge Motel
30.4 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
15.3 km
Llanelli’s vibrant retail park offering leading brands, leisure spots, and easy access near Parc Y Scarlets stadium.
Quadrant Shopping Centre
23.5 km
Swansea's covered shopping destination blending high street chains with independent boutiques in a modern, accessible setting.
Choices
24.7 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
25.8 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts, beauty products, and charming souvenirs at Treasures Of Munro, a cozy boutique in the heart of Tumble, Llanelli.
Wax 2 Relax
26.2 km
Discover handcrafted candles, bespoke perfumes, and unique local crafts in a cozy Morriston boutique that celebrates artisan creativity.
Obsessive Koi Disorder
27.1 km
A vibrant Swansea shop blending koi fish expertise with unique aquatic-themed gifts and apparel for enthusiasts and pond keepers alike.
Welsh Slate & Gift Boutique
27.8 km
Explore the charm of Wales at the Welsh Slate & Gift Boutique, where unique handcrafted slate treasures and local gifts await your discovery.
The Range
27.9 km
A spacious and affordable homewares and leisure store in Swansea offering everything from furniture to crafts and garden supplies.
Inspired Aroma
28.3 km
Explore the enchanting world of scents at Inspired Aroma, Swansea's beloved candle shop, where every fragrance tells a story.
Best-one Convenience Store
28.3 km
Discover the Best-one Convenience Store in Swansea - your go-to spot for local snacks and essentials while exploring the area.
The Funny Gift Store
28.5 km
Discover quirky, handmade novelty gifts that bring laughter and joy to Swansea and beyond at The Funny Gift Store.
Little Shop of Wishes
28.6 km
Bespoke personalised keepsakes and decorations crafted in South Wales for every celebration.
Peniel Green Food & Wine
28.7 km
A friendly family-run off licence and convenience store in Swansea offering wide selection and late hours for local shoppers.
Juno candles
29.0 km
Discover handcrafted candles that tell a story of scent and craftsmanship in the heart of Birchgrove, Swansea.
Wooscrafts
29.0 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and artisan crafts in the heart of Birchgrove, Swansea at Wooscrafts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Uplands Tavern
22.1 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
22.1 km
Discover Swansea’s quirky Noah's Yard—a vibrant bar blending artistic charm, live jazz, and a welcoming community spirit.
Maltsters Arms
23.5 km
Cozy and vibrant pub in Swansea’s Cwmbwrla, offering local ales, hearty food, and a warm community atmosphere.
Hogarths
23.8 km
Discover Hogarths Swansea, a lively Victorian gin palace offering over 120 gins, cozy booths, and a vibrant city centre atmosphere.
The Perch
23.8 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
23.9 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
23.9 km
Experience Swansea’s vibrant Latin tiki nightlife with tropical cocktails, rooftop dancing, and unforgettable party vibes at Bambu Beach Bar.
Peppermint
23.9 km
Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant nightlife, and exclusive VIP lounges in the heart of Swansea’s city centre.
Pump House
24.1 km
Classic British pub fare and refreshing drinks with stunning views of Swansea Marina in a lively, dog-friendly setting.
BeerRiff Brewing co
24.4 km
Discover innovative craft beers and vibrant community spirit at BeerRiff Brewing Co, Swansea’s waterside brewery and taproom.
The Ship Inn
24.4 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality and hearty local ales in the cozy, welcoming atmosphere of The Ship Inn in Swansea.
The Wern Inn
24.5 km
Friendly traditional Swansea pub with hearty food, a lively atmosphere, and a spacious beer garden, newly refurbished in 2025.
Ivorites Arms
24.8 km
Cozy Welsh pub in Swansea’s Plasmarl offering local ales, hearty food, and warm hospitality in a friendly, inviting atmosphere.
The Copper Pot
27.2 km
A friendly Swansea pub offering hearty meals, generous portions, and a relaxed atmosphere in the heart of Swansea Enterprise Park.
The Mansel Arms
27.6 km
A traditional Welsh pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and a warm, lively atmosphere in the heart of Carmarthenshire countryside.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club
19.6 km
Experience lively nights and vibrant music at The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club, Gorseinon’s premier destination for unforgettable nightlife.
Sin City
23.2 km
Energetic Swansea nightclub with live music, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere on Dillwyn Street.
Cuba Escape
23.4 km
Experience Swansea’s vibrant nightlife at Cuba Escape, where live music, energetic crowds, and a colorful atmosphere come together for unforgettable nights.
PlanB
23.4 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
23.9 km
Experience Swansea’s energetic retro nightclub with affordable cocktails, themed events, and a lively dance floor in the heart of the city.
Prince Of Wales
30.9 km
Tenby’s iconic late-night nightclub blending lively music, classic charm, and a spirited atmosphere in the heart of Town Wall Arcade.
Lucifer's Nightlife
30.9 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.
Savannah's Night Club
31.0 km
Experience Carmarthen’s vibrant nightlife at Savannah's Night Club—where music, dance, and stylish vibes create unforgettable Saturday nights.
Sands Nightclub
32.5 km
Saundersfoot’s lively nightclub with dance, drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere near the beach.
The Arch Bar & Nightclub
33.9 km
A lively Neath hotspot blending nightclub energy, live music, pub charm, and Thai cuisine in one vibrant venue.
Jimmy's Bar
34.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and live music scene at Jimmy's Bar, Port Talbot’s lively local hotspot with a welcoming atmosphere.
Comlongon
35.9 km
Experience vibrant nightlife in the charming village of St Florence with Comlongon, Tenby’s energetic nightclub gem.
Paddles
45.3 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
47.3 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
47.9 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
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Adventurous
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Sacred Sites
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
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly