Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Commonly referred to "The Gower" - Gower is a geographical location situated within The City and County of Swansea. In 1956, parts of Gower were designated an 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty' (AONB) - the first area in Britain to be given this accolade. Gower is probably most famous for its narrow peninsula situated to the west of Swansea, which is referred to and know as "the Gower Peninsula."
Diversity
The Gower peninsula has a wide variety of stunning landscapes: dramatic cliffs; long sandy beaches; rocky coves and bays; ancient woodlands; medieval castles; open countryside; nature reserves; marshes and farm/agricultural - all of which entwine with many picturesque villages, making Gower one of the most beautiful places to live, work and visit.
Community
Currently home to some 10,000 inhabitants, people have lived on Gower for over 26,000 years, signs of which remain all over Gower today. People come to Gower for many reasons; whatever your reason, be sure to take some time to soak up a little of Gower's fascinating historical past.
Conservation
Since 1933, the National Trust has been committed to caring for Gower for everyone to enjoy, and today it owns and protects three-quarters of the Gower coastline. Access to National Trust land on Gower is free, and together with volunteers, footpaths are maintained alongside Swansea Council's Rights of Way team to enable everyone to enjoy Gower.
Protection
In 1948, The Gower Society was formed to protect the environment of the old Lordship of Gower and especially the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Gower Society publish an annual journal which includes articles on all aspects of Gower, past and present - they even arrange a programme of more that 100 events a year, including: walks, talks, coach trips and folk dancing!
Discover Gower
Gower has something for everyone: stunning award-winning beaches, coves and bays along the Gower coastline; quality visitor and tourist attractions; a range of places to eat and drink including... restaurants, pubs, cafés and coffee shops; a selection of accommodation from...hotels, guest houses and bed and breakfast, to cottages, holiday lets and camping and caravanning sites; Gower has a diverse history with at least 1200 archaeological sites including caves, prehistoric burial mounds, Iron Age forts, medieval castles and churches.
Please Take Care
- Drive with care and caution - watch out for children and animals
- Keep Gower clean - take all litter home or use bins where provided
- Keep dogs under control - use dog-waste bins where available
- Respect the Gower environment and wildlife - act responsibly
