Background

Rhossili Downs: Majestic Clifftop Vistas on the Gower Peninsula

Experience breathtaking coastal panoramas and ancient heritage atop the highest point of Wales' Gower Peninsula.

4.3

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
  • Environment icon 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.
widget icon

Getting There

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Windy Conditions
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather

Unlock the Best of Rhossili Downs

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

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.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near Rhossili Downs

Popular Hotels near Rhossili Downs

Select Currency