The Gower Peninsula, West Glamorgan, Wales
Here’s a thing – the 19 mile Gower Peninsula in the south west of Wales was the UK’s first designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – way back in 1956. If you know the area, you’ll get that, if you haven’t, go and spend a little time there; what you’ll discover is a spectacular landscape of wide open fields, ancient woodlands, rufty tufty moors, towering limestone cliffs, and long stretches of golden sandy beaches – some of them, like Llangennith and Rhossili Bay are hard to beat for family days out, and for the excellent surfing. If you prefer a quieter spot, Pobbles Bay, Three Cliffs Bay, and Rotherslade Bay are all very special places.
The Gower Peninsula has miles and miles of superb walking territory, and it’s definitely one for the outdsoorsy sorts because there are plenty of activities on offer – among them rock climbing, coasteering and boat trips. History lovers will be in their element, with over 1,200 archaeological sites ranging from caves and churches to castles and a lighthouse. Go explore.
All information correct at the time of writing