Pennard Castle
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Pennard Castle

4.7
·505 reviews·Southgate, United Kingdom

Explore the atmospheric ruins of Pennard Castle, perched high above the iconic Three Cliffs Bay, offering breathtaking coastal views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Clear day mornings

Best light & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Pennard Castle

Pennard Castle

Best Time

Clear day mornings

Best light & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the atmospheric ruins of Pennard Castle, perched high above the iconic Three Cliffs Bay, offering breathtaking coastal views.

4.7
(505 reviews)

"The view from up there is amazing. You will be walking up to the castle and back down on dry loose sand, so it does take some effort."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Wear sturdy shoes

Paths can be sandy and uneven. Good footwear is essential for exploring the ruins and surrounding trails. :athletic_shoe:

🚗 Parking options

Consider parking at National Trust Southgate or the golf course (ask permission). :car:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Views of Three Cliffs Bay

Panoramic Views of Three Cliffs Bay

From the castle ramparts

Spectacular vistas of the iconic Three Cliffs Bay and the winding river leading to the sea. A photographer's dream!

Medieval Castle Ruins

Medieval Castle Ruins

The castle grounds

Explore the atmospheric remains of this 12th-century fortress and imagine life in a bygone era.

Coastal Path Walk

Coastal Path Walk

Surrounding area

Enjoy a beautiful walk along the coast, with sand dunes and abundant wildlife like rabbits.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Hike to Reach the Views

Pennard Castle is best accessed via a scenic walk, often from Southgate or the golf course. Be prepared for sandy terrain and some inclines. The effort is rewarded with breathtaking coastal vistas.

Timing is Key for the Best Experience

Visit on a clear day for optimal views of Three Cliffs Bay. Weekdays and early mornings can offer a more peaceful experience, allowing you to explore the ruins without crowds.

Best Times

When
Clear day mornings
Why
Best light & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Peaceful exploration
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

How did Pennard Castle in South Wales become a ruin? Legend tells us it was a curse… #History #HistoryTime #castle #historystory #folklore
@evelyn.edwards1
2.4K likes • 19.9K views

🚶‍♀️ Wear sturdy shoes

Paths can be sandy and uneven. Good footwear is essential for exploring the ruins and surrounding trails. :athletic_shoe:

🚗 Parking options

Consider parking at National Trust Southgate or the golf course (ask permission). :car:

Running around Pennard Castle!! (You’re going to want to watch to the end on this one…) #castle #Wales #corset #cottagecore #royalcore #hobbit #princess #seamstress #travel #fairy #magic #fantasy #comedy
@_hannah_clift_
1.1K likes • 5.2K views
The best castle on the Gower Penisula. This is Pennard castle a 12th century ruin which sits high above the iconic Three Cliffs Bay on the Gower. Whilst rhe castle itself might not be impressive, the view over pennard pill is absolutely spectacular. I’d argue its one of the best in Wales. The castle can be reahced in as little as 10 minutes from Pennard golf club. Its also a great place to wa...
ohwhataknight_
949 likes • 32K views

📸 Capture the views

The scenery is stunning, especially from the castle ramparts overlooking Three Cliffs Bay. :camerawithflash:

📜 History & Folklore

Learn about the castle's past and local legends; signs offer historical context. :scroll:

📍Three Cliffs Bay & Pennard Castle This was such a lovely walk! We walked along the river from Parkmill, which then led us onto the beach. On the way back, we walked along the other side of the river and headed up the hill to see Pennard Castle, where you get a beautiful view of the winding river down to the sea. 🅿️ We paid for parking at @shepherdsgower near the Gower Heritage Centre, Parkmill....
shadoww_the_pomsky
256 likes • 2.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Wear sturdy shoes

Paths can be sandy and uneven. Good footwear is essential for exploring the ruins and surrounding trails. :athletic_shoe:

🚗 Parking options

Consider parking at National Trust Southgate or the golf course (ask permission). :car:

📸 Capture the views

The scenery is stunning, especially from the castle ramparts overlooking Three Cliffs Bay. :camerawithflash:

📜 History & Folklore

Learn about the castle's past and local legends; signs offer historical context. :scroll:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(505 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the breathtaking views of Three Cliffs Bay from Pennard Castle, calling it one of the best in Wales. The atmospheric ruins and scenic coastal walks are also highly praised, making it a worthwhile destination for history and nature lovers alike. Some note the trek can be challenging due to sandy terrain.

"We walked from the golf course parking lot to the castle. It was a marked path. You have to stay on the path marked with white stones. This was incredible! Not many people there so we could explore the ruins and imagine what it would be like back in the day! The views out to the water were fantastic. If you are a golfer this would be a wonderful golf experience as there are rolling hills and mounds and spectacular views!"

Kathryn Lewis

"Bit of a trek from three cliffs bay but definitely worth it. The view from up there is amazing. You will be walking up to the castle and back down on dry loose sand, so it does take some effort."

Kevin Noronha

"Such a fantastic walk along the coast to the castle, we parked at National Trust Southgate carpark. Lots of rabbits can be seen running about the area. The sand dunes nearby have very soft sand. The views from the castle looking out over the bay is fantastic."

Keiron Fisher

What People Like

Spectacular bay views
Atmospheric ruins
Scenic coastal walks

What People Dislike

Sandy trek can be tough

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Pennard Castle is best reached by car, with parking available at National Trust Southgate or the golf course (check for permission). From the parking areas, it's a scenic walk to the castle ruins. Some visitors enjoy walking from Three Cliffs Bay, though this can involve trekking through dry, loose sand. InstagramReddit

While direct public transport to the castle itself is limited, you can take a bus to nearby areas like Southgate and then enjoy a walk. Check local bus schedules for routes serving the Gower Peninsula. Instagram

Accessing Pennard Castle from Three Cliffs Bay involves a walk, often over dry, loose sand, which can be challenging. It's a rewarding trek for those prepared for the effort. Reddit

No, you cannot drive directly to Pennard Castle. It is situated on a clifftop and is accessed via walking paths from designated parking areas. Instagram

The nearest major town to Pennard Castle is Swansea. The village of Southgate is very close by and offers amenities and parking. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Pennard Castle is a historic ruin and generally free to access. There are no ticket booths or entry fees required to explore the grounds. TikTok

As an open-air ruin, Pennard Castle does not have set opening hours. It is accessible at any time, though visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment. Instagram

No, there is no admission fee to visit Pennard Castle. It's a public access site, allowing everyone to explore its historical significance and stunning surroundings. Reddit

Dogs are generally welcome at Pennard Castle and the surrounding coastal paths, provided they are kept on a lead, especially in areas with wildlife or near cliff edges. Instagram

Due to its historic nature and clifftop location, Pennard Castle is not easily accessible for wheelchairs. The paths can be uneven and sandy. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic photo spot is from the castle ramparts, offering a breathtaking view of Three Cliffs Bay. The surrounding coastal paths and sand dunes also provide beautiful photographic opportunities. TikTokInstagram

Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photographs. However, clear daylight hours provide excellent visibility of the bay. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local bylaws and any restrictions before flying a drone near Pennard Castle or the Gower Peninsula to ensure compliance. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details of the ruins or distant scenery. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing skies and seascapes. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed and encouraged. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits, so it's best to inquire if you plan extensive professional shoots. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Explore the medieval ruins, enjoy the stunning panoramic views of Three Cliffs Bay, and take a walk along the beautiful coastal paths. It's a great spot for history buffs and nature lovers alike. TikTokReddit

Most visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring the castle ruins and enjoying the views. If you plan to combine it with a longer walk along the coast or to the beach, you could easily spend half a day. Reddit

There are no facilities directly at Pennard Castle itself. Restrooms and cafes can be found in nearby Southgate or at the National Trust car park for Three Cliffs Bay. Instagram

You're likely to spot numerous rabbits hopping around the grassy areas and sand dunes. Birdlife is also abundant along the coast. Reddit

Yes, Pennard Castle offers a picturesque setting for a picnic. Find a spot with a view and enjoy your meal surrounded by history and natural beauty. Remember to take all your litter with you. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Pennard Castle offers a fantastic adventure for families. The walk to the castle can be an exciting exploration, with plenty of open space for kids to run around. TikTok Spotting rabbits in the dunes is often a highlight for younger visitors. Reddit While the ruins themselves are not playgrounds, the sense of history and the dramatic views can spark imagination. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenery, and ensure children stay close and supervised near cliff edges. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers

For hikers, Pennard Castle is a perfect stop on a longer coastal walk. The Gower Peninsula offers numerous trails, and the castle provides a historical point of interest with unparalleled views. TikTok The terrain can vary from grassy paths to sandy dunes, offering a good workout. Reddit Combine your visit with a trek down to Three Cliffs Bay for a full day of exploration and stunning natural beauty. Instagram

🏰 History Enthusiasts

History buffs will appreciate the chance to explore the remnants of a 12th-century fortress. TikTok While information boards are present, researching the castle's past and legends beforehand can enhance the experience. Reddit The atmospheric ruins offer a glimpse into medieval life and the strategic importance of the Gower coast. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend and History of Pennard Castle

Pennard Castle, a 12th-century ruin, holds a mystique often linked to local folklore. Legend has it that the castle's downfall was due to a curse, adding a layer of intrigue to its crumbling walls. TikTok While the exact historical reasons for its abandonment are debated, its strategic location on a clifftop overlooking the Gower Peninsula suggests a significant past. The ruins, though not as grand as some other Welsh castles, offer a tangible connection to medieval life and the strategic importance of this coastal defense. Instagram

Today, Pennard Castle stands as a testament to time, its stones weathered by centuries of wind and rain. Visitors can wander through the remaining structures, imagining the lives of those who once inhabited this formidable stronghold. The atmosphere is palpable, especially when combined with the dramatic coastal scenery. TikTok It's a place where history whispers on the wind, inviting contemplation and a sense of wonder about the past. Instagram

Navigating the Landscape: Walks and Access

Accessing Pennard Castle is an experience in itself, often involving a rewarding walk. Many visitors opt to park at the National Trust Southgate car park or the golf course (with permission) and follow marked paths. InstagramReddit These routes typically lead through grassy fields, over sand dunes, and along the stunning coastline, offering varied terrain. Be prepared for sandy sections, especially if approaching from Three Cliffs Bay, which can make the trek more challenging but also more adventurous. Reddit

The walk is a significant part of the Pennard Castle experience, allowing you to soak in the natural beauty of the Gower Peninsula. The paths are generally well-defined, often marked with white stones, guiding you towards the castle ruins. Reddit The combination of the hike and the destination makes it a popular choice for day-trippers and hikers looking for both natural beauty and historical interest. Instagram Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the sandy and sometimes uneven ground requires good grip and support. Reddit

Capturing Pennard Castle: Photography Tips

Pennard Castle is a photographer's paradise, offering a wealth of stunning visual opportunities. The most sought-after shots capture the castle ruins against the backdrop of the iconic Three Cliffs Bay. TikTokInstagram The panoramic views from the castle ramparts are simply breathtaking, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset when the light casts a magical glow over the landscape. Instagram

Beyond the main viewpoint, explore the surrounding coastal paths and sand dunes for diverse photographic subjects. The textures of the sand, the rugged coastline, and the abundant wildlife, such as rabbits, provide ample creative inspiration. Reddit A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to encompass the vastness of the scenery, while a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing details of the ruins or distant sea views. Instagram Remember to check local regulations if you plan to use a drone for aerial shots. Instagram

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