The Gower Peninsula: Land of our fathers
Jutting out into the Atlantic, southwest of Swansea, the Gower Peninsula boasts sublime golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, crashing surf and sweeping views, discovers travel writer Hugh Graham in our British Classic feature in the October issue
But there is more to the Gower than its stunning shoreline. The 15-mile long, National Trust-protected peninsula is punctuated with sites of deep historical significance. Ancient man once roamed the land and Britain’s oldest skeleton, the Red Lady Of Paviland – which dates back 29,000 years – was discovered here.
After dramatic battles for the Welsh land in the Middle Ages, the hills lay relatively undisturbed until the Victorians established the seaside resort of Mumbles. Also known as ‘the gateway to the Gower’, it opened up the peninsula to tourists.
Today, visitors are still drawn by the miles of creamy sand, backed by mountainous dunes and downs, crammed with historical curiosities that allow plenty of opportunities for walking and site seeing. You can also spot a variety of birds, including puffins, at Worm’s Head. This haven for our feathered friends is at the very tip of the peninsula.
The Atlantic swells that roll in from North-America make the whole area a hotspot for surfers, but if you don’t fancy getting wet, you can relax on the terrace of the King’s Head pub – supping a local ale while drinking in the magical view of Rossili Bay at Llangennith.
