I walked the Pennard to Pobbles Bay route on a bright early summer afternoon, when the tide was low and the wind was light enough to make the walk comfortable without a jacket. The drive into Southgate was simple, though the National Trust car park was already busy with families heading toward the coast. I slotted into a space, laced up my boots, and set off on the short path out toward the bay.
The track began wide and grassy, rolling gently above the cliffs. The footing was easy, though the drop to one side reminded me to keep attention forward. The air carried the smell of salt and flowers from the gorse that lined sections of the path. Within ten minutes, the coastline opened fully, giving the first clear view down into Pobbles Bay.
From above, the bay looked tucked away — a small crescent of sand framed by rocky outcrops and backed by grassy slopes. A few people were already scattered across the sand, their voices faint against the sound of the waves.
The descent was sandy and loose in places, requiring steady footing. My boots slid slightly on the softer patches, though nothing beyond careful steps was needed. The tide was low, leaving plenty of beach exposed. The sand was firm near the waterline, easier to walk than the softer upper sections. Children played with buckets and spades, while a couple of surfers carried boards toward the small break at the far end.
I found a flat rock at the edge of the bay and stopped for a drink, watching the waves push rhythmically in. The cliffs around gave the place a sheltered feel, even though the open sea was only just beyond.
The climb back out of Pobbles was short but enough to work the legs. The sandy path gave little grip, so I leaned forward and took it slow. Once back on the higher ground, the return to Pennard was straightforward, the same grassy path as before but with the afternoon sun now sitting lower over the sea.
Back at the car park, the café was busy with walkers and families, so I grabbed a coffee to go before starting the drive home.
The Pennard to Pobbles Bay walk is short, simple, and rewarding. The grassy clifftop path, the sandy descent, and the quiet cove combine to make it an ideal quick escape. It doesn’t demand much in distance or time, but it delivers the essence of Gower’s coastline in miniature — cliffs, sea, and a sheltered bay that feels like its own world.
– **Distance**: Around 2 miles (out and back).
– **Weather**: Bright early summer, light breeze.
– **Terrain**: Grassy clifftop paths, sandy descents, firm beach.
– **Parking**: National Trust car park at Southgate.
– **Gear**: Boots or sturdy shoes, water bottle.
