Whiteford Sands facts for kids
Whiteford Sands is a beautiful two-mile long beach located on the northern side of the Gower Peninsula in south Wales. It is the most northern beach on the Gower and sits right next to the Loughor Estuary. This special spot is known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural beauty.
Contents
Exploring Whiteford Sands
Whiteford Sands is a truly unique place. It stretches for about two miles, offering plenty of space to explore. The beach is part of a larger coastline that includes Llanmadoc Beach. At high tide, these areas are separated by natural landmarks like Prissens, Hill, and Cwm Ivy Tors. This part of Gower also boasts some of the most beautiful woodlands you can find.
Getting to Whiteford Sands
One of the reasons Whiteford Sands is so quiet and peaceful is because you can't drive directly onto the beach. To visit, you'll need to park your car near the village of Llanmadoc. From there, you'll enjoy a lovely walk along country paths to reach the sands. This little bit of effort means fewer crowds, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing day out.
The Historic Whiteford Lighthouse
Standing proudly in the bay at Whiteford Sands is the Whiteford Lighthouse. This lighthouse is quite special because it's made entirely of cast iron. It's a historic landmark that adds to the unique charm of the area. You can often see it from the beach, especially when the tide is out.
Whiteford Burrows Dunes
Just behind Whiteford Sands, further inland, you'll find an amazing system of sand dunes called Whiteford Burrows. This area is owned by the National Trust and is a protected national nature reserve. It's a fascinating place where you can see how sand dunes form and support unique plant and animal life. The burrows also include a pine plantation, adding to the diverse landscape.