SS4288 : Track on Rhossili Down

Rhossili Down - The Beacon

193m Elevation
145m Prominence
Wales Country
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SS4288 : Track on Rhossili Down

David Smith Photo source

Explore routes near Rhossili Down - The Beacon

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Rhossili Down Circular via Rhossili Village

This popular circular route starts in Rhossili Village and takes you up Rhossili Down to The Beacon, the highest point offering panoramic views of the Gower Peninsula and Worm's Head. The route then descends towards the northern end of the Down before looping back along the sandy path near Rhossili Beach.

6.5 km ~2.5 hours Moderate

Rhossili Down Ridge Walk

A linear walk along the ridge of Rhossili Down, starting at the northern car park near Hillend and finishing in Rhossili Village. This route provides uninterrupted views of Llangennith Beach on one side and the countryside on the other, passing The Beacon along the way.

5.5 km ~2 hours Easy

Rhossili Down via Llangennith Beach

Begin this route at Hillend Car Park, walking along Llangennith Beach before ascending Rhossili Down from the northern end. The route takes you over The Beacon and descends towards Rhossili Village, combining coastal and upland scenery in one walk.

8 km ~3 hours Moderate

The Beacon Short Loop

A shorter, steeper loop ideal for those with less time. Starting from the car park near Rhossili Church, the route ascends directly to The Beacon for breathtaking views, then loops back via a gentler descent path.

3.5 km ~1.5 hours Moderate

Rhossili Down and Worm's Head Combo

This extended route combines the Rhossili Down ridge walk with a detour to Worm's Head. Starting in Rhossili Village, ascend Rhossili Down to The Beacon, then descend back to the village and follow the coastal path to Worm's Head. Check tide times for safe access.

10 km ~4 hours Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Hump 100-199m hill Submarilyn

Elevation

193m

633 ft

Prominence

145m

Coordinates

51.5764, -4.2816

SS419888

OS Map

159

Explorer: 164

At the Summit

The summit boasts a prominent trig point, offering a perfect selfie spot with the stunning backdrop of the Bristol Channel.

Terrain & Geology

Grassy with a mixture of rocky outcrops especially towards the summit; the paths can be muddy after rain.

Rhossili Down is primarily composed of limestone and Devonian sandstone, creating dramatic cliffs and a rich landscape. The upper slopes are covered with grass and heather, providing a beautiful contrast against the rugged cliffs below.

Views & Scenery

Incredible views of Worm's Head, including the rugged coastline and, on a clear day, a sight of the Brecon Beacons.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Beacon' refers to the signalling lights that were historically placed for safety on high hills.

Historical Significance

Rhossili Down has been a site of importance since prehistoric times, with evidence of ancient settlements in the area.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Rhossili Village Car Park (SS418877) with some spaces available but can fill quickly, so arrive early.

Public Transport

Regular bus services from Swansea to Rhossili; check local schedules for the best times.

Nearby Facilities

There are cafes and a public toilet in Rhossili village, perfect for a post-hike scone or pint.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Strong winds, especially at the summit; be cautious of slippery conditions after wet weather.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Rhossili Down - The Beacon?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Rhossili Down - The Beacon through the maps

Are there other walkers around Rhossili Down - The Beacon?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Rhossili Down - The Beacon search or of course create your own walk for Rhossili Down - The Beacon

Can I organise a walk to Rhossili Down - The Beacon?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Rhossili Down - The Beacon.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Rhossili Down - The Beacon?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Rhossili Down - The Beacon here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

Rhossili Down - The Beacon location map

Grid reference: SS419888

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

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