Rhosili Ranger Run, Gower
This varied 10km trail run follows the Wales Coast Path alongside Rhosili Down and back over the golden, 3-mile stretch of the beach, with the second half looping out towards the dramatic headland at Worms Head.
The fields in this area are one of the best examples of the traditional open strip field farming system in the country. We’re farming in a wildlife friendly way by creating new hay meadows and sowing traditional crops, creating perfect habitats for arable plants, birds and pollinators. This route has been created in collaboration with expert trail runners and adventurers Jen and Sim Benson, as part of our Ranger Run Series.
Map
Start:
National Trust car park at Rhosili, SS 414880
1
Turn right out of the car park entrance and follow the road east using the footpath alongside the churchyard, rejoining the road at a track junction.
2
Turn left here onto the Wales Coast Path (WCP) and follow it north, forking left to contour along the hill on the seaward side of The Beacon until you reach the road at Hillend.
3
Turn left, still on the Wales Coast Path (WCP), and follow it west to the beach. Then leave the WCP turning left onto Rhossili beach and running south on firm, flat sand all the way back to the steep path below Rhossili village at the south-eastern corner of the beach.
4
Climb the steep path back to the start but turn right at the car park and follow the Wales Coast Path which is also the Gower Way along a track towards Worms Head. Follow this past the Old Castle with meadows to your left to reach the lookout station.
5
Turn left following the Wales Coast Path (WCP) around the headland to an inlet and path junction. Turn left off the WCP and head inland along the edge of some ancient strip fields. Turn left at the next junction and follow the path along the edge of fields back to the start.
The Vile
You’ll be running through the Vile, an area that we are farming differently. Take in the wonderful array of colours from the wildlife friendly crops and the dazzling display of flowers in the hay meadows which are buzzing with pollinators.
End:
National Trust car park at Rhosili, SS 414880
