Serpents, seascapes and shipwrecks walk
Follow this gentle walk past the National Trust shop, along one of Wales best beaches taking in the beautiful views as you go.
Map
Start:
Rhosili, grid ref: SS413881
1
With your back to the bus stop, turn right and walk along the road, continuing between the car park and the Worms Head Hotel. The National Trust shop is a little further on your left.
2
The National Trust shop is in one of the former coastguard cottages. The powerful tides and shifting sands caused many ship wrecks. The remains of the Helvetia can still be seen on Rhosili beach at low tide.
Rhosili beach
One of the best beaches in Wales, Rhosili is a haven for people who want to enjoy the coast - walking, surfing or just building sandcastles.
3
Continue to follow the path through the gateway on the surfaced path.
4
To the right of the path there are a series of mounds. These are the remains of an Iron Age fort. The magnificent views from here meant the inhabitants of the fort could see their enemies for miles around.
5
As you continue along the surfaced track you will see fields and hedge banks which are part of a medieval open field strip system. The Normans introduced this system of farming in the 12th century.
6
Where the surfaced track bears sharp left, walk straight on following a wide grass path towards the coastguard lookout where you will have spectacular view of the Worms Head.
Serpents, seascapes and shipwrecks
The name 'Worms Head' comes from the Nordic word 'Wurm' which means serpent or dragon.
7
The coastguard lookout was built in Victorian times and is now manned by volunteers.
8
Once you have reached the Coastguard lookout, you can make the choice to cross onto the island or return to the start by the route you've travelled.
Access to the Worms Head
The Worms Head is a tidal island with access possible for approximately two half hours either side of low tide. The coastguard lookout has tide tables available and will offer advice as to the best time to cross.
End:
Rhosili, grid ref: SS413881