You could roam the UK for years and never stumble upon a scene quite as breathtaking as this: golden sands that stretch for miles, framed by vibrant blue waves caressing the shoreline on one side and lush green cliffs on the other. It's no secret, with accolades pouring in over the years regularly naming it among the best beaches in the UK, Europe and even the world. Rhossili Bay strikes that rare mix: it's easily reachable yet remote enough to avoid being overrun by crowds, unlike the more crowded beaches in places like Dorset, Sussex, Devon or Cornwall.
Travel pundit Simon Calder, a common face on TV dishing out travel tips, has lauded the Gower peninsula gem as "pristine" and " world class", reports Wales Online . It's also been called the UK's "most dog-friendly beach" and "the supermodel of British beaches". The Atlantic swell makes it a hotspot for surfers, who can often be seen floating off-shore, while the calm waters are safe enough for swimming and paddling.
There's even an old shipwreck to explore - the remains of Helvetia, which ran aground here in 1887 carrying 500 tonnes of timber. Adding to its charm, it boasts one of the UK's most unique accommodations: a National Trust-owned house perched above the sand, offering guests some of the most breathtaking views in Britain. Beyond the three-mile beach, the iconic Worm's Head is just a short clifftop walk away, and the entire Gower peninsula, a designated area of outstanding natural beauty, awaits exploration.
Despite its remote location, there are plenty of places to grab a bite to eat or a coffee within a stone's throw of the beach. In 2017, Rhossili Bay earned a spot among the world's top 10 beaches, the only European beach to make the list, alongside beaches in Thailand, Hawaii and Brazil. In 2024, Lonely Planet named it among the world's 100 best beaches, and in 2013, TripAdvisor users voted it the world's 10th best beach.
TripAdvisor users describe it as "unbelievably beautiful" and advise others to "spend as much time there as you can". Adding to Rhossili's acclaim, global travel firm Big 7 recognised this gem as one of the top 50 beaches worldwide in 2023. Visitors love Rhossili for its blend of accessibility and seclusion at the end of the Gower Peninsula.
Despite its easy car access, Rhossili retains a sense of remoteness that spares you from jostling for panoramic views or a spacious slice of beach, although the clifftop car park might test your patience on especially busy days. A serene hillside path leads from the road, guiding visitors down to an expansive beach that feels like a private desert island retreat. Where to stay in Rhossili Perched cliffside, The Worms Head Hotel offers breathtaking vistas over Rhossili Bay beach and Worms Head, with a strong Google rating of 4.
1 out of 5 from 949 reviews. They offer standard double rooms starting at £160. Airbnb has some places in Rhossili and in other parts of Gower.
But the standout place to stay here is the Old Rectory. This property, under the stewardship of the National Trust and just moments away from the renowned beach, boasts four bedrooms and comfortably sleeps seven guests. Constructed in the 1800s and once a base for radar workers during World War II, this property boasts light-filled rooms and a spacious kitchen, making it an ideal spot for family or friend gatherings.
Picture yourself lounging in the front garden, basking in the view as the sun sets over the beach. However, such luxury comes at a price. Due to its unique appeal, availability is scarce, with a three-night stay starting from approximately £1,500 (and that's during autumn, not peak season).
Despite its diminutive size and secluded location, Rhossili village, nestled right above the beach, offers a variety of charming dining options. These include The Lookout, The View and the Worms Head Hotel itself..
