The Gower Forge, Swansea

Glamorgan. Sleeps up to 6

Little Valley Bakery and The Heritage CentreOne minute away, follow the smell of freshly baking bread to the Little Valley Bakery and pick up breakfast and treats for your picnic basket before you set out for the day. Delve into the fascinating history of the mill in the Heritage Centre across the Pill. Visit the operational 12th century water mill. Three Cliffs BayThree Cliffs is one of Gower's most picturesque beaches and it's not hard to see why. The valley leading down to the sea is complete with castle, salt marshes and sand dunes and together with the three cliffs themselves, all combine to make this destination unique. Walk from the cottage along through the valley to the sea - the path is sandy and the walk is wonderful!The cliffs are popular with climbers and what a location - you can actually walk underneath the cliffs through an archway! There are stepping stones to cross the river on the Penmaen side of the bay (west) but watch out for the tide and make sure you have enough time to get back. The beach has a seasonal lifeguard station. Please take care with children and dogs. Gower Coast PathEnjoy spectacular coastal scenery, historic sites, verdant woodlands, a wealth of wildlife, open commons home to wild ponies, remote beaches, medieval churches and atmospheric castles while walking the Gower Coast PathGower Coast Adventures - Boat Trips (May to September)Explore the Gower coast from Mumbles to Worms Head aboard a boat trip aboard a large RIB (rigid inflatable) Board at Knab Rock, Port Eynon or Oxwich. Look out for grey seals, porpoises and dolphins as well as seabirds such as Razorbills and Guillemots (June and July), Gannets and Shearwaters. Gower Heritage Centre, ParkmillSet in the grounds of a 12th century water mill, the Gower Heritage Centre houses a rural museum. craft centre, the world's smallest cinema, children's play areas and a gift shop. A variety of events is hosted during the year. Rhossili Beach and Worms HeadJourney out along one of Wales's most iconic cliff walks, with breathtaking views of the golden sand of Rhossili, to the rugged limestone rocks of the south Gower coast. On your return, stop off for lunch at The Bay Bistro which offers home made treats together with simply stunning views of beautiful Rhossili Beach from every table. If the tide is out you will even see the bones of The Helvicta wreck reaching out through the sands. Restored by your lunch, take the challenging walk to the highest point on Gower and down onto this most iconic of Wales's beaches. Burial chambers, radar stations and shipwrecks are only some of the highlights you will pass along the way. Watch the surfers ride the waves and if you fancy a lesson head over to Llangennith and Ask PJ at his Surf Shop and he will fit you out with all you need to get up and riding. Or if retail therapy is more up your street there are gift shops and a National Trust Shop here. Local EateriesCross the road and take the short stroll up river to the Gower Inn - a classic family pub which serves honest pub fare and offers seasonal menus. The King Arthur Hotel on the green at Reynoldston is a delightful country pub with log fires and a cosy restaurant. Sit outside on the village green and watch the ponies grazing. Booking recommended. The Plough and Harrow - an award winning gastro pub - is a ten minute drive away at Murton and well worth a visit. Booking recommended. Mumbles Lifeboat Station The Mumbles Lifeboat Station has a remarkable history of bravery stretching over 170 years and it's crews have been presented with 33 awards for gallantry. The station has also witnessed tragedy with 18 lifeboat crew losing their lives saving others at sea. It is a humbling place to visit! The new lifeboat station was completed in 2014 and sits alongside the original building, now preserved in remembrance of all those who lost their lives at sea. Swansea MarketVisit Swansea Market for authentic Welsh delicacies - Lava bread and freshly gathered cockles have been served by generations of well known 'cockle ladies'. Try hot fresh Welsh cakes, straight from the bake stone. Absolutely delicious. The Plough and Harrow, BishopstonWinner of the Gastropub of the Year 2016, Food Awards Wales, Winner - Best Pub in West Glamorgan 2016, The National Pub and Bar Awards and The Times Newspaper's Top 100 Sunday Lunches in UK 2016. This multi-award winning gem of a pub is small and friendly and consistently turns out fantastic seasonal food. Evening booking essential to avoid disappointment. It is 10 minutes by car. The Beach House, Oxwich BayYou simply cannot miss dining at Gowers' newest hip hangout. With a stunning location right on the bay at Oxwich, The Beach House serves a pared-down menu with exquisite yet simple flavours. A welcome addition to the group which includes The Grove at Narberth and Coast at Saundersfoot. The Dylan Thomas Centre and The Swansea Museum and MarinaIn Swansea, the birthplace of Dylan Thomas, The Dylan Thomas Centre is home to the permanent exhibition "Love the Words", which opened on 27 October 2014, Dylan’s 100th birthday. The interactive displays tell the story of the work, life and cultural context of one of the twentieth century’s most significant writers and the exhibition includes a learning space, activities for children and a temporary exhibition area. Finish off the day with a stroll around the Marina, maybe stopping off for lunch in one of the many waterside bars and cafes. Swansea's Museums are conveniently situated here for a fascinating insight into the industrial past of this dynamic city.

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