Pennard Castle offers one of the most unforgettable views on the entire Gower Peninsula — a dramatic ruined fortress sitting above the golden sands of Three Cliffs Bay. This guide covers everything you need to plan your visit, from walking routes and parking tips to the castle’s history and top viewpoints.
• Spectacular views over Three Cliffs Bay
• Scenic walking routes with uneven, sandy and sometimes steep terrain
• Peaceful, atmospheric “wild ruin” experience
• Excellent photography opportunities
• Perfect for pairing with coastal walks
Pennard Castle dates back to the 12th century, built by the Normans to control the valley and coastline. Over time, shifting sand dunes overwhelmed the area, making the site difficult to inhabit. By the 14th–15th centuries the castle was abandoned. The gatehouse and sections of the curtain wall remain today.
Pennard Castle is reached on foot and has no dedicated visitor car park. One established approach is from Southgate, where the National Trust operates a pay-and-display car park. From Southgate, walking routes cross Pennard Cliffs and connect with the paths towards Three Cliffs Bay and Pennard Castle.
The castle can also be approached from the Parkmill/Three Cliffs Bay side, although routes include sand, grass, uneven ground and slopes.
The Gatehouse
The most iconic structure, ideal for photography.
Cliffside Viewpoint
Panoramic views of Three Cliffs Bay, Pennard Pill valley and Oxwich Bay.
Dunes & Valley
A surreal landscape shaped by centuries of shifting sand.
Photography Tips
• Sunrise: soft light behind the bay
• Sunset: warm glow on castle walls
• Low tide: best tidal patterns and stream curves
No facilities at the castle itself.
Nearby:
• Southgate NT café & toilets
• Shops/cafés in Bishopston & Parkmill
• Golf club refreshments may vary.
• Keep clear of cliff edges
• Sand and coastal paths can be unstable
• Wear appropriate footwear
• Carry water and be mindful of weather exposure
Short Visit (30 min)
Pennard Golf Course → Castle → return.
Three Cliffs Bay Loop (1–2 hrs)
Castle → descend to bay (tide-dependent) → valley return route.
Extended Walks (2–4 hrs)
Connect with:
• Southgate & Hunts Bay
• Pobbles Beach
• Oxwich Bay
• Cefn Bryn ridge
Parking: National Trust parking is available at Southgate, including designated accessible spaces. Charges apply for non-members.
Terrain: Access towards the castle involves a mixture of grass, sand and uneven paths. Some sections of Pennard Cliffs are accessible, but the complete route to Pennard Castle and Three Cliffs Bay should not be treated as a fully accessible route.
• Three Cliffs Bay Guide
• Pobbles Beach Guide
• Cefn Bryn Walk
• Southgate to Pwll Du Walk
• Gower Coast Path Overview
