Rhossili Headland & Beach Circular Walks

Given how spectacular the Gower coastline is, I am amazed there is only one of Britain’s top walks listed in the area in the top 30.

According to ITV, the Rhossili Headland and beach walk is Britain’s 28th favourite walk.

Don’t get me wrong, I love walking in the Lake District, the Peak District and Cornwall, but this coastal walk should be much higher up the list, and hopefully the photos in this post will explain why 🙂

After stepping out of the car at the National Trust car park, I wandered over towards the edge of the cliff that looks over Rhossili Beach, and my breath was taken away. The coastal area around Rhossili is striking. Dramatic cliff tops and one  of the beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen.

I’ve created two walking routes below, but they can be combined into one (which ITV and Ordnance Survey have done). The total route is around 12km, and will take around 3km, but if you follow my route, you can always stop at the Worms Head Hotel for a drink half way round.

As you’ll see from my pictures, the weather was incredible. So if you visit when the sun is shining out of peak times, you’ll be treated to some of the best coastal views in the UK, sparkling blue-green water and miles of dog-friendly golden sand.

RHOSSILI BAY WALKING ROUTE

Have a look at the OS map below. It might not work on some mobile devices, so please use this image instead.

Starting at the National Trust car park at Rhossili, head through the gate, and follow the path towards Worms Head.

Simon Heyes - UK Hiking Blogger - Rhossili Bay

You can venture all over the cliff top, but be warned – don’t get too close to the edge!

The views across the headland are incredible. Let the wind blast your face as you stride towards Worms Head.

Rhossili Headland Walk - looking towards Worms Head

Eventually you’ll reach the lookout station opposite Worm’s Head. If you’ve timing your walk well (unlike me and Pip!), you’ll be able to cross over to Worms Head and get some great views of the Welsh coast.

If not, you’ll be stuck with photos like this :):

Pip the Springer Spaniel - Worms Head, Rhossili

The view towards Worms Head on the Rhossili headland walk

Loop back inland, and follow the path back to Rhossili.

Then start heading up the road to the church, past the amazing ice cream parlour (!) / cafe on the right. Your path ahead should be visible in front of you, through the heather on the hillside.

Soon after you pass the church, you’ll start the steep climb up towards the Rhossili Beacon on Rhossili Down.

Once you reach the trip point on the top, stop and take in the views….wow.

View of Rhossili Beach from Rhossili Down, Gower

From the trig point, follow the path along the top of Rhossili Down until you reach the next highest point on the Beacon. Complete with old World War 2 turret ruins, you get great views of Hillend and the Northern stretch of Rhossili Beach.

Simon Heyes - UK Hiking Blogger

Views Of North Rhossili Bay and Hillend from the Beacon

Your descent down the hill starts here.

Note, this is quite a steep descent, so time to get those walking polls out if you have them with you.

This route will take you back onto the road at Hillend, where you can follow it to the beach, but if the tide is in, loop back round to the lowest point of the cliff top, and follow the path back from there.

Walk along the beach all the way back. Watch the surfers, play on the beach or even take a dip if you’re brave enough!

When you get back to the car park at Rhossili, why not go to the Worms Head Hotel for a drink and a bite to eat? If the weather is good, grab a seat on the terrace outside….I don’t think I’ve eaten a burger with a better view…

Burger & chips at the Worms Head Hotel, Rhossili

CHECK OUT THE VLOG

If you can’t make it to Rhossili Bay anytime soon, catch some of the highlights of my headland and beach walk in the vlog below.

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Disclaimer – this post was produced in collaboration with Visit Swansea Bay. Whilst my trip to the Gower was gifted from them, all the photos, views and commentary are my own 🙂

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