In Swansea, a city blessed with stunning beaches, there’s one that stands out despite its smaller size – Pwll Du Bay. Nestled at the bottom of a valley, this beach is one of the least accessible in the city, reachable only by three footpaths.
So, what makes it worth the extra effort compared to the city’s other more easily accessible beaches? Those who have visited will tell you that the experience is unparalleled.
The beach boasts a unique bank of thousands of pebbles, surrounded by limestone cliffs, all set within a secluded and picturesque location. The pebbles are stacked up in waves, like ripples from the beach and sea and are deep, forming dunes. For the latest Swansea news, sign up to our newsletter here
An aerial view of the beach
Pwll Du translates to ‘Black Pool’, due to a large pool formed behind the beach by a stream that filters through the pebble bank onto the beach. Explore South Wales shares some of its history: “The bay is steeped in history having once been a haven for local smugglers. There is a nearby gully called Graves End which is marked by a circle of limestone rocks, so called due to the burial of several people who were found dead on the bay following a ship called The Caesar ending up wrecked nearby in 1760.”
“The Caesar was an Admiralty tender ship on a recruitment mission when rough sea conditions on the channel drove it against the headland of Pwll Du. Although a few officers of the ship escaped with their lives, around 90 press ganged men all imprisoned below deck on the ship were not so lucky.
“Later, during the 19th century, it was a centre for limestone quarrying and it’s these rocks that give it its unique topography. Near the top of the cliff on the west side is the now overgrown remnants of one of the quarries which is reportedly a fascinating place to explore if you can find a way to access it. There are two cottages situated on the western side of the beach known as Seven Slades, these cottages were originally inns called The Ship and The Beaufort.”
It is one of the most unique beaches in Swansea
There are a lot of pebbles and they form waves and dunes
(Image: geographyalltheway_photos/Flickr)
How to get there?
Access to the beach is limited to three footpaths – two along the coastal path from east or west, and the third through Bishopston Valley. The coastal paths offer superb views of the Gower coastline and sea, while the valley walk is an enchanted trek, meandering down through trees to a river which zigzags its way towards the beach.
The distance between the car park at Bishopston or Southgate and beach is over 400m and may include difficult or rough terrain (SA3 2HL). There is no wheelchair access to the beach, or lifeguards to patrol it. Once you are there you will invariably be on your own due to the difficulties reaching it. But you will have the peace to take in the sea views and enjoy the rather unique spectacle of the pebble dunes.
Dogs are permitted to go there all year round.