Three Cliffs Bay

Three Cliffs Bay lies on the south coast of the Gower Peninsula in Swansea. The bay is named for three limestone sea cliffs that jut into the water, and Pennard Pill, a large stream, flows into the sea at its centre. At low tide the bay joins Oxwich Bay to the west, forming one long sandy beach. Pobbles Bay and Tor Bay sit on either side of the cliffs, separated only at high tide. Paths lead north to Pennard Burrows and east and west to the two smaller beaches. The cliffs rise about twenty metres and attract rock climbers with twenty graded routes. Scavenger (VS 4b) is often called a national classic among them. Pennard Castle stands inland above the stream, built in the early twelfth century and linked to fairy legends. It is the only place in Britain where yellow whitlow grass grows. The beach itself holds Blue Flag status and welcomes dogs all year. Visitors find wide sands at low tide, backed by dunes and grassland paths. The cliffs offer views over the inlet and along the coast. Rock climbers can be seen on the limestone faces while walkers explore the network of routes. The area has appeared in television programmes and music videos, adding to its fame.