Worm Head Out & Back

Gower Peninsula

Rhossili Bay, located on the southwestern tip of the Gower Peninsula in Wales, is a stunning destination known for its natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes. The bay boasts three miles of golden sandy beach, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a day of relaxation. One of the unique features of Rhossili Bay is its dog-friendly policy, allowing visitors to bring their furry friends along to enjoy the beach all year round.

At low tide, the remains of the 1887 wreck of the Helvetia can be seen, adding a touch of history to the scenic views. The bay was the first beach to be awarded Britain’s Best Beach by Trip Advisor’s Traveller’s Choice, a testament to its popularity and charm. From the cliffs, visitors can enjoy amazing views of the bay and the iconic Worms Head, a tidal island that can be reached on foot during low tide.

Rhossili Bay is not just about the beach; it offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. There are several walking routes, including the Rhossili Downs and Rhossili Point, which provide stunning views and opportunities to explore the local flora and fauna. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including grey seals that can often be seen resting on the rocks around Worms Head.

ALL TRAILS ROUTE

OS MAP ROUTE

Elevation Gain

559ft

Distance

5.5 miles

Type

Out & Back

Difficulty

Hard

Route

This stunning out-and-back coastal walk starts from the Rhossili National Trust car park and takes you to the iconic Worm’s Head, one of the most recognisable landmarks on the Gower Peninsula. The route follows a well-defined cliff-top path with dramatic views over Rhossili Bay, making it a favourite for photographers, hikers, and dog walkers alike.

Due to the uneven, rocky terrain, we’d rate this walk as hard, taking around 2 to 2.5 hours depending on your pace and photo stops. Along the way, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the coastline and the tidal causeway.

As Worm’s Head is a tidal island, it’s only accessible at low tide, and you can safely cross up to 2.5 hours either side of high tide. Good timing is essential. From the island, you might spot grey seals resting on the rocks or bobbing in the sea.

While dogs are welcome, the terrain is sharp and uneven in places, with some big drops, so extra caution is needed. Livestock can also be found grazing on the island, so dogs must be kept on a lead. During nesting season (March - October), the very tip of the island is closed to protect the seabirds.

This is a must-do walk if you’re visiting Rhossili, offering epic coastal views and a chance to explore one of Wales’ most beautiful natural landmarks.

Facilities

National Trust Shop open daily and public toilets available

Information for pet owners

Please take care near the cliff edge, as there are steep drops.

Dogs must be kept on lead due to livestock such as sheep and ponies, grazing along the cliffs.

Please remember to pick up after your dog: left waste can be harmful to grazing animals, and sadly there have been cases where foals have lost their lives after ingesting it.

Places to eat

The View Rhossili is a scenic, dog-friendly café nestled above the iconic Rhossili Bay on the Gower Peninsula. With panoramic coastal views, outdoor seating, and plenty of space for pups to relax, it’s the perfect pit stop after a beach walk or cliff-top ramble.

The Look Out is a dog-friendly gem overlooking Rhossili Bay. Open daily from 9.30am, it’s the perfect spot to refuel with a sandwich, locally made cake or ice cream — and even pick up some beach essentials or a souvenir to remember your trip.

Where to park?

Coordinates: 51.56926° N, 4.28870° W

What3words: ///tonal.grabs.typist

Free for National Trust Members

Up to 2hrs - £4.00

Over 2hrs - £8.00

Getting here

By Road - From Swansea (J42) take the A483 to Swansea. Continue on to the A4067. At Black Pill, turn on to the B4436. Turn right to keep on the B4436 at Pennard before turning left on to the A4118. At Scurlage, take the B4247 to Rhosili. From Swansea (J47) Take the A483 and then take the A484, Turn left to Gowerton. At lights, take the B4295 to Llanrhidian. Then take the B4271 and follow signs for Reynoldston. Continue to A4118 and turn right. At Scurlage, take the B4247 to Rhossili.

By Bus - There are regular services from Swansea to Rhosili. (Monday-Saturday, Sunday (summer service only). Services 118/119 (NAT) and 114 (Sundays First Cymru). Additional services connect quieter parts of Gower with the 118 and 116 (Swansea-North Gower service.

Nesting season is between March 1st to July 31st each year and on open access land, dogs are required to be on lead by law.