Rhosili headland walk
This walk across the headland takes in views across Rhosili Bay and out to Worm’s Head before leading you back through the Vile, the remnants of an ancient landscape.
Livestock along the route
Ponies and cattle are present along the trail throughout the year.
Total steps: 10
Total steps: 10
Start point
National Trust shop, Rhosili, grid ref: SS414881
Step 1
From the National Trust car park with Rhosili beach and Worm’s Head Hotel to your right, walk towards the National Trust shop (on your left). The shop is in one of the former coastguard cottages.
Step 2
When you reach the shop, you will see the 3-mile-long beach of Rhosili on your right.
Step 3
Go past the shop and through a pedestrian gate to continue along the track with the cliffs on your right.
Step 4
To the right of the path there are a series of mounds. These are the remains of one of at least 32 Iron Age forts found on the Gower Peninsula. The magnificent views from here enabled inhabitants of the fort to see their enemies for miles around.
Step 5
To the left of the track a dry-stone wall encloses a medieval open field strip system. Known as the Vile, it was introduced by the Normans in the 12th century. This system is now largely managed for wildlife by the National Trust using nature-friendly farming methods.
Step 6
Where the surfaced track bears sharp left, walk straight on, following a wide grass path towards the National Coastwatch Institute (NCI) lookout. From here, you'll have spectacular view of the Worm's Head. The lookout was built in Victorian times and is now manned by volunteers.
Step 7
At the NCI lookout turn left to walk along the clifftop. You will join a path that runs alongside the dry-stone wall. Continue until the path and wall take a sharp left overlooking Fall Bay.
Step 8
Keep to the path on the left.
Step 9
Follow the path until you reach an iron ladder and steps up to a pedestrian gate. Go up the steps, through the gate and follow the path on the right to take you uphill and through another gate.
Step 10
Turn left and follow the marked footpath through sheep fields and onto a green lane. A short distance along the lane there is a sharp turn back to the left. Continue through the footpath gates and along this narrow, hedged track until you reach a wider lane on your right. Take the right turn onto the lane and follow it into Rhosili village, turning left onto the road which will lead you back to the National Trust car park.
End point
Rhosili Village, grid ref: SS414881
Trail map
More near here
Bishopston Valley walk
Discover caves, underground rivers and ancient woodland on this challenging walk through a hidden valley in Gower, Wales.
Rhosili Ranger Run
Feel the wind in your hair and sand beneath your feet as you enjoy this scenic running route around Rhosili.
Get in touch
Our partners
We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.
You might also be interested in
Walking in Wales
Explore wide open landscapes, gentler coastal strolls or energetic hikes for something a little more challenging. We've rounded up some of the best places to walk in Wales.
Cotswold Outdoor: our exclusive walking partner
Find out more about the National Trust’s ongoing partnership with Cotswold Outdoor as our exclusive walking partner.
Staying safe at National Trust places
The special places in National Trust care sometimes come with a few risks for visitors, be it coastline or countryside. Find out how to keep safe throughout your visits.
Follow the Countryside Code
Help to look after National Trust places by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.
Eating and Shopping at Rhosili
Rhosili Bay, Gower, the site to one of our most unique shopping locations. With views across the 3 mile sandy beach, it’s a place like no other. With plenty of local treats and to enjoy or take back home. We also have plenty of choice for any last minute purchases to really make your day out the best it can be.
Visiting Rhosili and South Gower Coast
A scenic spot for coastal walks, water sports and wildlife. With 3 miles of sandy beach there’s plenty of space for the whole family to play in the sand or fly a kite.
Walking
Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.