This beach is so close to perfection it’s been dubbed the “supermodel of British beaches” and has even been ranked among the top beaches in Europe and the world.
Now, outdoor travel gurus have given it a score of 9.26 out of 10, crowning it the best beach for winter strolls. It boasts a sandy bay that stretches for miles, ample sand for walking, surf-friendly waves, and surrounding cliffs perfect for hikes with breathtaking views.
The beach in question is Rhossili, located at the Gower’s edge, which was chosen as the best beach for a winter walk by the outdoor specialists at GO Outdoors based on factors like average rainfall, temperature, daylight hours, and popularity.
Rhossili Bay consistently ranks among Europe’s finest, frequently appearing in annual round-ups of the UK’s and even the world’s best beaches. It strikes the perfect balance between remote and accessible: while it’s easy to reach, you’re unlikely to battle through the massive crowds found at more popular beaches, reports Wales Online.
Travel expert Simon Calder has praised the beach, situated at the westernmost point of the Gower peninsula, as “pristine” and ” world class”. It’s also been labelled the “supermodel of British beaches” and crowned the UK’s “most dog-friendly beach”.
Rhossili is a year-round haven with its ideal blend of sandy beaches and gentle waves. Its expansive golden sands are a delight for walkers and families, while the shallow waters make it a safe spot for paddling. However, the Atlantic swell also makes it a hot favourite among surfers, who can often be spotted floating a little way off-shore, yet it remains tranquil and secure enough for swimming and paddling.
There’s even a historical shipwreck to discover. Amidst the flat sand, you’ll stumble upon the remnants of Helvetia, which was laden with 500 tonnes of timber when it met its fate here in 1887.
The beach is bordered by verdant cliffs, equally suited for walking, extending all the way to Worm’s Head, another renowned landmark just a brief stroll away. Here, you’re likely to cross paths with cows, sheep and wild horses.
And if that doesn’t satiate your appetite for adventure, it also boasts one of the UK’s most distinctive accommodations. A National Trust-owned house perched above the sand offers what could arguably be one of the most breathtaking views in Britain to its guests.
The broader Gower peninsula is recognised as an area of outstanding natural beauty.
In 2017, Rhossili Bay was crowned as one of the top 10 beaches on the globe, the only European contender to grace the list, rubbing shoulders with exotic locales in Thailand, Hawaii, and Brazil. Fast forward to 2024, and it’s featured in Lonely Planet’s roundup of the world’s 100 most stunning beaches.
Back in 2013, TripAdvisor users were smitten, ranking it as the 10th best beach globally, lavishing praise for its “unbelievably beautiful” vistas, with many advising visitors to “spend as much time there as you can”. In 2023, the global travel authority Big 7 Travel included it in their list of the top 50 beaches worldwide.
Rhossili is a breeze to reach by car, yet it retains an air of seclusion, nestled at the tip of the Gower Peninsula. There’s a handy car park that serves as a starting point for leisurely strolls to Worm’s Head or the expansive Rhossili beach though be warned, it can fill up quickly when the sun’s out.
But fear not, the beach’s vastness means it rarely feels overcrowded, no matter how many sun-seekers descend.
Where to stay in Rhossili
Perched on a cliff’s edge, The Worms Head Hotel boasts breathtaking views over both Rhossili Bay and Worms Head itself. With a solid 4.1 rating from 949 Google reviews, a standard double room here starts at £160.
Airbnb offers additional options in Rhossili and across Gower. However, the creme de la creme of Rhossili accommodation is the Old Rectory.
This National Trust gem stands alone, mere steps from the iconic beach, featuring four bedrooms and accommodating up to seven guests.
Constructed in the 1800s, this property once served as a radar station during World War II. Its spacious, light-filled rooms and generous kitchen make it an ideal spot for a getaway with loved ones – just picture yourself lounging in the front garden, basking in the stunning view as the sun dips below the beach horizon.
However, such luxury comes at a price. Given its unique appeal, availability is scarce, and a three-night stay will set you back around £1,500 (and that’s during the off-peak autumn season).
Despite its diminutive size and secluded setting, the village of Rhossili, nestled above the beach, boasts a plethora of charming dining options. These include The Lookout, The View, and even the Worms Head Hotel itself.
