Why Visit the National Trust at Rhossili Bay?
Rach and I visited Rhossili Bay, part of the National Trust, in August 2021 during our “Tour of Wales” in our motorhome. We were completely blown away by the breathtaking views and natural beauty of this section of the Gower Peninsula.
If you’re planning a visit, we strongly recommend setting aside a full day, there’s more to do here than you’d expect!
Getting to Rhossili Bay in a Motorhome
We travelled in our 8-metre motorhome. The journey was smooth for the most part, though the final few miles do narrow significantly. With careful driving and patience, you’ll get there safely.
The main National Trust car park is large, with a few designated spaces for motorhomes. The overflow field offers plenty of room and if you park near the bay side, you’ll get fantastic views right from your motorhome.
Parking is free for National Trust Members (scan your card at the pay machine), a small charge for Non Members.
We recommend arriving early as this is a very popular destination.
What Is There to Do at Rhossili Bay?
Worm’s Head
Worm’s Head is a dramatic headland and one of the most iconic features in Rhossili. The name comes from the Old English word “wyrm”, meaning sea serpent.
It’s made up of three islands:
– Inner Head
– Middle Head (featuring the collapsed sea cave known as Devil’s Bridge)
– Outer Head
Access is tidal — you can only cross for around 2.5 hours either side of low tide. Do not attempt to cross outside of this time — the causeway floods quickly and can become dangerous.
We unfortunately missed the crossing time on our visit, but we’ll definitely be heading out to Worm’s Head next time!
Several visitors have been rescued by the coastguard after getting stranded on Worm’s Head by the incoming tide. A voluntary organisation National Coastwatch Institution man the Worms lookout station and can be seen with binoculars looking to see if all visitors have departed the head before the tide is in. We were too late on our visit to cross to the Worm’s Head, but we will be returning and this will be Number one on our agenda to complete.
Link to the NCI web page for info and contact details.
Scenic Walk: Headland & The Vile
There’s a 3.5-mile circular walk that takes in incredible views of Rhossili Bay, Worm’s Head, and ancient farming landscapes known as The Vile.
Highlights:
1. Start near the Worms Head Hotel and National Trust shop (former coastguard cottages).
2. Look down at the sweeping 3-mile beach of Rhossili — you may spot the Helvetia shipwreck at low tide.
3. Walk past an Iron Age fort and medieval field systems introduced by the Normans.
4. Reach the coastguard lookout, built in Victorian times and now manned by the National Coastwatch Institution.
5. Follow the path along the cliff, through The Vile (look out for yellowhammers in the hedgerows).
6. Head back inland through wildflower fields to Rhossili village.
Sunflower Fields
On your way to Worm’s Head, you’ll spot an entrance to the sunflower fields (seasonal). Entry has a small fee, and you can pick your own sunflowers for a small price per stem.
There are two fields:
– One with a sunflower arch — perfect for photos
– One set up as a Gruffalo trail for children
A van at the entrance sells cakes and drinks — a great place to rest before or after your walk.
Rhossili Beach
Rhossili Bay’s beach is award-winning and stretches for 3 miles. There’s always sand showing — regardless of the tide.
Note: Access to the beach is down a steep path — it may not be suitable for everyone.
At the north end, you’ll often see surfers catching waves.
Don’t miss the Helvetia shipwreck — a Norwegian oak barque that ran aground in 1887. Its decaying remains are visible at low tide and have become an iconic feature of the beach.
Where to Eat & Drink
There are several local options just steps from the car park:
1. Bay Bistro & Coffee Shop (⭐ 4.5 Google) – Fresh food year-round, great coffee, indoor/outdoor seating with sweeping views.
2. The Lookout (⭐ 4.9 Google) – Coffee, cakes, snacks, and stunning views in a friendly atmosphere.
3. Helvetia Café (⭐ 4.3 Google) – Laid-back café with a sea view.
4. The Worm’s Head Hotel Restaurant (⭐ 4.1 Google) – Cliffside views, hearty meals.
5. The Causeway Café (⭐ 3.1 Google) – Small café/shop near the car park.
Would We Visit Rhossili Again?
Absolutely — without a doubt. Rhossili Bay is a hidden gem of the Gower Peninsula and one of the most scenic National Trust locations we’ve ever visited.
The walks, the views, the beach, the flowers… it’s unforgettable. And next time, we’ll make sure we get across to Worm’s Head!
