Mike Scott has worked widely across Wales, the Lakes, and Scotland, but finally came back to Gower in 2009, to work as the Gower Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Assistant.
Now the Team Leader for Gower National Landscape and Countryside Access, he works for Swansea Council to protect Gower’s precious landscape, and to help others appreciate it. He is proud of the communities, and their amazing cultural heritage, which have shaped Gower’s landscape over the last 35,000 years, and works with a wide range of people to shape the future landscape.
Always happy to be off walking somewhere, Mike has spent years leading walks around Gower, exploring the coast and hills that make up Gower’s intricate mosaic of landscapes – the salt marshes of the north coast, the rolling hills of Cefn Bryn and Rhossilli Down, and the cliffs and bays of the south coast.
For 2026, Mike is leading the Dramatic & Beautiful Oxwich Point walk on Monday 7th September.
Gower National Landscape
Gower National Landscape was designated as the first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the UK back in 1956. Though small, covering just 72 square miles (186 square kilometres), it’s part of a big family of 46 National Landscapes and 13 National Parks across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, each with its own unique character and beauty.
Conserving and enhancing the natural beauty of Gower is a shared effort. The small team works closely with all who live, work, and manage the land here, as well as those who conserve the natural environment. The team is guided by an Advisory Group, which includes local councillors, local groups, community representatives, and conservation organisations, all playing a vital role in shaping our approach.
GNL’s work is made possible through grants from the Welsh Government and Natural Resources Wales. The team collaborates closely with local organisations, businesses, landowners, farmers and communities to create, manage, and deliver projects and events. Their goal is to conserve and enhance Gower National Landscape – its stunning natural environment, rich heritage, and vibrant culture – while also supporting the needs of local communities and businesses.