Tankey Lake & Llanmadoc Walk – Gower

Directions:

Follow the main road towards Llangennith, passing the turning for Llanmadoc. The road narrows to a single lane then opens back up into a two-lane road – at this point look on your right for an area of open common land and a gravel track leading to Tankey Lake. The best place to park is just off the road on the left-hand side (do not block any entrance ways).

Once you have parked your car, cross the road and pass through the gates onto Tankey Lake moor. Bear left, taking the path that skirts the farmland below. Choose the paths that keep you skirting the hill – once on the north side (overlooking Whiteford Point) the path will climb steadily until you once again meet the edge of the farmland.

Keep your eyes peeled and you will eventually see the entrance of a rough track descending through farmland into the village of Llanmadoc.

On your left, as you enter the village, you will see Llanmadoc church. The building’s origins can be traced back to the 13th century, though much of what meets the eye today dates to a very extensive renovation of the church in 1865. The Reverend J. D. Davies was rector of Llanmadoc and Cheriton from 1860 to 1911 and famously wrote a book, “A History of West Gower” referred to by many as “the Gower Bible.” The extensive work documents much of the history, customs, and folklore of the area and may be found for viewing in the reference library in Swansea. The Reverend was also a skilled carpenter – he personally carved the oak altar found within the church and also built the beautiful Swiss-styled rectory across the road, inspired by a holiday to Switzerland.

Once you meet the tarmac lane which runs through the village, turn right and walk down towards the Britannia pub. If you haven’t brought a packed lunch, this is a perfect place to stop and eat a relaxing lunch. As you are walking down to the pub, keep looking on your right for a footpath sign directing you up another small lane and back onto Llanmadoc Hill.

After your well-earned rest, set off back up the lane to the common land beyond. Take the path that bears left up onto the top of the rise and then follow the path right along the ridge of the hill. The path you take passes through the remains of a late prehistoric hill fort known as the Bulwark, before climbing to the summit of Llanmadoc Hill, which at 610ft in one of the highest points on the peninsula, with spectacular views in all directions. Now follow the path that gently drops down the southern side of the hill and back to your car near the main road.