Starting from Clyne Farm, this rewarding eight-mile circular walk explores the beautiful commons, historic villages and peaceful countryside of eastern Gower. Expect a varied route across open heathland, quiet lanes and attractive field paths, with wonderful views and plenty of stories along the way.
Crossing Clyne Common, you’ll discover one of Gower’s finest surviving areas of lowland heath. Grazed by cattle and ponies for centuries, the common supports skylarks, butterflies and colourful summer wildflowers. On a clear day there are superb views across Swansea Bay, Mumbles Head and the rolling hills of Gower.
The route descends into Murton, a traditional farming village whose roots stretch back to medieval times. Quiet lanes and old cottages reflect its long agricultural history before continuing into nearby Bishopston, one of Gower’s oldest settlements. Here you’ll pass the historic St Teilo’s Church and hear how the village developed under the Bishops of St Davids.
Leaving Bishopston, paths cross the peaceful expanse of Barland Common, where Roman artefacts and evidence of ancient ironworking have been discovered. The surrounding hedged fields provide a glimpse of the landscape created over hundreds of years by Gower’s farming communities.
The walk continues to the tranquil Fairwood Lily Pond, a haven for dragonflies, waterfowl and seasonal wildflowers, before returning across Fairwood and Clyne Commons. Rich in wildlife, history and far-reaching views, this is an ideal walk for anyone wishing to discover the quieter, timeless character of Gower beyond its famous coastline.
Lunch: Packed lunch, snacks and water required.
This walk is not suitable for children.
Toilets at start & finish.
Walk leader, Clive Scott is an experienced Rambler walk leader. He plays a leading role in Bishopston and Pennard Walkers are Welcome, co-ordinates path maintenance volunteers, is footpaths officer for The Gower Society. But most of all, he just loves walking in our stunning coastal and countryside areas.
