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Photo: ceridwen, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Ruins offering spectacular views over Three Cliffs Bay.
Pennard Castle is a ruined castle, near the modern village of Pennard on the Gower Peninsula, in south Wales. The castle was built in the early 12th century as a timber ringwork following the Norman invasion of Wales. The walls were rebuilt in stone by the Braose family at the turn of the 13th and 14th centuries, including a stone gatehouse. Soon afterwards, however, encroaching sand dunes caused the site to be abandoned and it fell into ruin. Restoration work was carried out during the course of the 20th century and the remains of the castle are now protected under UK law as a Grade II* listed building.
© OpenStreetMap contributors
A rural life museum based around a working water mill. The museum also boasts one of the world's smallest cinemas - La Charrette - a 23-seat former railway carriage. There is also a gift shop and cafe on site.
A great place to take a stroll through the woods and watch the wild ponies galloping on the beach. The ruins of Pennard Castle guard the area from a hill to the left (when facing the sea). Note, however, that the strong undercurrent at this bay makes it unsuitable for swimming. The beach is entered from a path across from Shepard's village store and cafe.
Overlooked by Penrice Castle, the pristine waters of the bay are surrounded by extensive dunes and woodlands and protected by a small Saxon church on the headland. Oxwich was named the most beautiful beach in the UK and one of the most beautiful in the world by The Travel Magazine in 2007.
The sandy beach is popular with families, holidaymakers and surfers. Has Blue Flag status.