The Oxwich Dunes Wildflowers walk on Thursday 10th September is one of several new walks in the 2026 Gower Walking Festival programme.
This 3-mile walk will be led by Helen Nicholas and Charlotte Toft – the co-founders Gower Unearthed CIC – in honour of their friend Hil Werker, who loved the rich diversity of plant life in Oxwich dunes. Helen and Charlotte met Hil exploring those dunes and over the years were inspired, enthused and guided by Hil to share her celebration of the natural world and love of the countryside, the coast and Gower.
Helen Nicholas
Helen Nicholas is a heritage specialist, educator and founder of Gower Unearthed CIC, with expertise in local history, archaeology and community engagement. She has led heritage and education projects for more than a decade and regularly appears on programmes for ITV Wales and BBC Wales exploring Welsh history and folklore. A History and English specialist, Helen is known for bringing the past to life through experiential archaeology, storytelling and public education.
Helen has been a Gower Walking Festival walk leader for many years.
Charlotte Toft
Charlotte Toft originally qualified as an environmental conservationist and worked with Helen for 6 years as cofounder of Gower Unearthed. Charlotte is currently working for Forest School Swansea, Neath, Port Talbot and provides outdoor nature connection activities for Cae Tan at the National Waterfront Museum.
Gower Unearthed
Gower Unearthed was founded in 2010 with a unique approach to learning, encouraging children to explore and connect with the natural world. From the beginning, it developed educational field trips rooted in Gower’s landscapes and stories, linking them to specific historical themes – like Tudor life at Oxwich Castle or the Iron Age in Bishopston Valley.
It also branched out into community-focused walks, talks, and creative projects. One of our enduring favourites is the Fairies and Ancient Medicine package, which delves into the folklore and magic of the natural world.
What started as a small partnership grew into a Community Interest Company (CIC) – a not-for-profit organisation passionate about celebrating Gower’s heritage and helping to protect it.
For further information about Gower Unearthed click here.