ramblers logo, mvr text, ramblers plus mvr logo

Rhossili Bay - Views and a shipwreck, 20 July 2024

Today, seven hardy ramblers braved the elements for an unforgettable adventure at Rhossili Bay! Led by the ever-enthusiastic John Holloway, we set off from the National Trust car park, with the rain and sea mist adding a mystical touch to our journey. Our path took us past the historic Worm's Head, a headland named after the Old English word 'wyrm' meaning 'sea serpent' and the Victorian-era coastguard station, now manned by dedicated volunteers. We continued to the ancient Old Castle Fort, dating back to the Iron Age (800 BC - AD 43) and the Lookout Station, a Victorian structure still standing strong. Heading west on the Wales Coast Path, we enjoyed brief respites above Fall Bay and Mewslade Bay before taking a well-deserved tea break in a cozy shelter. We then ascended Rhossili Down, despite the persistent rain. We then explored the remains of the World War II Radar Station, operational from 1942 to 1945 to monitor shipping and low-flying aircraft. After a scenic lunch with sea views, we descended to Rhossili Beach, where we marvelled at the wreck of the Helvetia, a Norwegian barque wrecked in 1887 while carrying timber from New Brunswick to Swansea. The final climb back to the car park was a challenge, but the sight of our cars was a welcome relief!