Everything you need to know about Three Cliffs Bay
Discover what you can see and do at Three Cliffs Bay (Bae y Tri Chlogwyn) in Gower, Wales. Find practical information on parking, facilities and accessibility to help you plan a great day out.
What is Three Cliffs Bay?
This picturesque spot can be found on the Gower Peninsula in South West Wales. It was named after the three large, and rather dramatic, pointed cliffs that sit upon this wild beach.
Overlooking the bay to the east are Pennard Castle ruins and below the castle is Pennard Pill River (stream), which flows into the bay, carving dramatic banks into the sand. The river can be crossed on the beach by large stepping stones.
As well as the magnificent limestone cliffs, the beach has beautiful sand dunes and salt marsh to wander and explore at low tide.
Things to do there
Just taking a walk along the beach makes a great day out. You can walk miles at low tide and the footpaths on the cliff above the beach boast spectacular views out to sea. Children can explore the rock pools scattered along the beach and paddle in the streams, formed by the river at low tide. It’s been named one of the most Insta-worthy parts of Wales and is a great place to have a picnic with friends and family.
The cliffs are made up of limestone and are extremely popular with rock climbers and as number of great climbing routes can be found here. Photographers also flock to they bay as the cliffs form an archway onto the beach and make a great picture. You’ll often see horse riders on the beach, especially at low tide, as the vast expanse of sand is perfect for a gallop.
This stretch of coastline can have very strong tides and currents so it’s important to take extra caution. There are full time lifeguards on the beach during holiday periods (May to September) but they advise against swimming or water sports when the tide is returning in.
This stunning walk incorporates some of the best views in the area. It begins with the so-called ‘backbone of Gower’ a moorland ridge which offers great views and the chance to see wild horses. The return leg meanders through woods and beautifully landscaped parkland before meeting the exquisite coast for which Gower is principally famous. Oxwich Bay is a real joy, with so many different habitats that it’s recognised as one of the most diverse coastal areas in Britain. A stop to admire the Neolithic burial chamber known as Arthur’s Stone is must.
What’s nearby?
The Gower was declared the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the UK in 1956. There is lots to see and do in the area. The Wales Coastal Path runs above the bay and makes an enjoyable, varied walk into Port Eynon. The walk takes you through beautiful woodlands, Oxwich nature reserve and Oxwich Bay if the tide is out, also past seaside shops and residential areas.
The Gower Way long-distance path passes through the village of Penmaen just north of the bay. The views from this hilltop path at Penmaen are pretty spectacular as you walk down the spine of the Gower Peninsular you have coastal views to both sides.
This delightful circular walk has it all. The coastal scenery includes the beautiful and usually deserted beach known as The Sands and you’ll also pass St Illtud’s Church and the majestic ruins of Oxwich Castle. This route can be combined with a visit to Oxwich National Nature Reserve, a treasure trove of marshland and sand dunes in a wonderful beachside location.
Where to park?
There are a few places to park nearby but all require a walk, ranging from 10 to 30 minutes, down to the beach. The path is quite steep and uneven underfoot, so care needs to be taken.
- Three Cliffs Bay car park at the Gower Heritage Centre and the
- Southgate National Trust car park
- Limited free parking at Penmaen
- A large field near the Shepherds of Gower in Parkmill (may not be open year round, please check before visiting)
There’s a bus stop around 400m from the beach which links to Swansea train station.
What facilities are?
There are public toilets at Three Cliffs Holiday Park near the car park which visitors to the bay are free to use. There’s a bus stop around 400m from the beach and refreshments can be found in the nearby villages of Parkmill and Pennard.
Accessibility
It’s a dog-friendly beach, they are welcome all year round. Unfortunately, there is no wheelchair access down to the beach. If the tide is high, many of access points are closed off and you may have to go up the sand dunes and hills to leave.
We hope this has given you a taster of this beautiful Welsh beach so you can start planning your own visit. Explore the bay and the surrounding area in more detail by checking out this map of Three Cliffs Bay Gower.
