Where is Worms Head Rhossili Bay?
Worms Head is a tidal island that is the most westerly point of the Gower Peninsula. The walk involves crossing the causeway at low tide over the rocks to reach the outer head. Why is it called Worms Head? We hear you ask. Some say it comes from the Norse word ‘Wurm’, which means dragon. When the Vikings saw the island, they believed that it resembled a sleeping dragon and alas, the name was born. However, others say it comes from ‘wyrm’, the old English word for a sea serpent.
The three most significant things you need to remember when tackling this walk is that you only have 5 hours per day to complete it. The island is only accessible for 2.5 hours on each side of low tide. The next thing you need to know is that it is not as easy as you might think, and it takes much longer than you’d expect. The final thing is that this is an epic adventure, so put on some comfortable shoes (preferably trainers) and start exploring.
If you’re lucky enough, you might be able to spot some seals and their pups. We were, and it was magical. It was isolated enough that despite the crowds on Rhossili, we had the outer head to ourselves. The walk is one of the best things on the Gower Peninsula. Dylan Thomas described his experience as “the very promontory of depression” when he got stuck on the island. It’s a beautiful experience unless you get stranded.
Worms Head Walk from Rhossili Bay Details
Miles: 4.5 (2.2 miles to the top of the head)
Time: allow for 2-3 Hours return
Walk Type: out and back
Difficulty: moderate – difficult. The surface is uneven, and there are some parts where you have to scramble, jump and need agility.
Worms Head Car Park
Follow the B4247 to reach Rhossili Village.
Parking is available in the extensive National Trust Car Park. The cost is £3 for up to 2 hours or £6 all day. If you are attempting the Worms Head walk, you will need to get an all-day ticket. If you are lucky enough to be a National Trust member, the parking is free if you scan your card. Overnight parking is not allowed. You can follow the Google Map directions here.
There is a cafe and some toilets near the car park. In addition, there is an ice-cream van in the summer months.
If you do not drive, you can catch the 118 bus from Swansea, which will take roughly an hour to arrive near the car park.
Worms Head Postcode: SA3 1PP
Worms Head Rhossili Tide Times
The tide is so essential when you are walking to Worms Head. Luckily, there are notices at the Old Coastguard hut and on the grassy bank before you reach the causeway. However, please pay close attention to when it says return by, and if you think you might not make it, you should turn back.
If the tide cuts you off, wait for assistance and not attempt to cross. There is a bell that you can ring for help. If you see someone stuck, you should call the coastguard on 999. There is a chance of drowning if you cross at the wrong time.
Did you know? The tidal rise here is the second highest globally (highest in Canada), so this is serious stuff for anyone thinking they can battle the harsh waters.
For more information, read the National Coastwatch – Worms Head NCI here.
You can check the tide times and weather before going on the Met Office website.
Top Tips for the Worms Head Walk
- Start two hours before low tide to give yourself more time to complete the Worms Head walk.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes and gear and take essentials with you—for example, suncream, water, and snacks.
- Remember, you do not have to walk to the outer head. As it is an out and back hike, you can go as far as you like and then return when you have had enough.
- Take breaks when necessary. This walk can be tiring – luckily, the views from every angle are beautiful.
- This walk is not suitable for people with limited mobility or pushchairs. It is much more complex than you might think because of the length and uneven surfaces.
Worms Head Wales Walk Instructions
The Worms Head Wales walk consists of walking to 3 distinct islands. The Inner Head – The Middle Head – The Outer Head
From the car park, turn left in the direction of the sea, go through one of the gaps in the wall. After, walk along the headland in the direction of the worm for roughly ¾ of a mile. It is quite a levelled path. You will have beautiful views over Rhossili Beach, so make sure you take your time to soak up the views.
After roughly 20-minutes, you will arrive at the Old Coastguard station. You will be able to see a path in front of you that goes down the headland. Double-check the tide times and head down to the causeway.
From here, you will have to cross the 700m causeway, and there is not a straightforward path. The rocks are uneven, and there are many rock pools. Therefore, you should take your time and scramble until you make it to the other side. We recommend staying to the right, which most people are doing. You will now have arrived at the Inner Head – the first island. There will be a National Trust sign and a bell (only ring it if you’re stuck).
From here, follow the grassy path, go up to the highest point of the Inner Head (47m), and walk along the top, taking in the fantastic views, before going down again. The next part is probably the most challenging section of the walk, the rocks are jagged, and there is no obvious path. After that, you will cross the Devil’s Bridge, which is an excellent spot for a photo. Keep going, and then you will arrive at the outer headland, where you should follow the path you like.
To reach the top of the outer tip (if it is open), you will need to scramble up some rocks, so take your time. You will feel like you’re on top of the world. It is 150ft high and has cliffs to the side, so be careful because it can be windy here.
From here, you will need to head back the same way you came—however, this time, we recommend following the flatter path on the Inner Head. Instead of going up, take the lower path and walk around the island rather. This route has fewer people, as most people climb to the top for 360 views.
FAQ
When is the best time to complete the Worms Head walk?
The Worms Head walk is open all year round. It is good to know that you cannot access the outer headland between 1st March and 31st August because of nesting birds. You will be able to see signs whether or not it is open. We recommend completing this walk in fair weather, and if it has been raining, the rocks may be slippery, resulting in an injury.
What wildlife can I see on Worms Head?
You will have the chance to spot nesting birds, including kittiwakes, herring gulls and guillemots. Also, some seals reside on the island. If you spot them, stay out of sight, keep quiet and keep well away from them.
Can I take my dog to Worms Head Island?
Yes, you can take your dog to Worms Head. However, the rugged and sharp rocks may be pretty uncomfortable. The dogs we saw had to be carried over the rocks on our last visit as they found it too complicated. It would help keep your dogs on a lead on the islands to protect seals.
What can I do near Worms Head?
- Relax on Rhossili Bay – a beautiful 3-mile sandy beach – with lifeguards and flags in peak season. Please note, it is steep to reach the beach, but it is equally as lovely to see the beach from above. You can see a shipwreck at low tide that dates back to 1887 – the Helvetia!
- In the fields near the coastal hut, there are sunflower fields in the summer. Here you can go on a Sunflower Gruffalo Trail, which is £2 per person.
- Stay the night at the Worm’s Head Hotel. They have fabulous views over Worm’s Head and Rhossili Bay. They also have a bar and restaurant that serves a range of dishes and snacks (closed on Tuesdays).
- Visit St Mary’s Church, which dates back to the 12th-century – it has a fascinating history and is right next to the car park.
We hope you enjoyed this fabulous coastal walk from Rhossili Bay to Worms Head. Although we know from experience that it is incredibly challenging (even if you consider yourself quite fit), it is also enriching. The walk was one of the best things we did in Wales, and we hope that this guide allows you to experience the same fun and joy we did. There is no better feeling of experiencing the true natural beauty, and the Worms Head walk offers this and more.
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We want to stress that ‘Average Lives’ cannot be held liable for any injuries or accidents that may occur while walking our routes. We strongly advise that you wear proper footwear to reduce the risk of injuries, and carry a paper map and compass to ensure your safety while walking. You can read more on our About Page.