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Whiteford Burrows National Nature Reserve and Llanrhidian Saltmarsh

Owned by the National Trust, Llanrhidian Marsh and Whiteford Burrows are outstanding both for their landscape beauty and for their wildlife.

Whiteford Burrows is seen as one of the best dune systems in Britain and have an excellent series of dune habitats. Whiteford Sands lie to the east of the Burrows, punctuated by the dilapidated cast iron lighthouse (not NT owned) at its northern end. There are views across the estuary towards Pembrey Sands and Burry Port opposite.

Llanrhidian Marsh is one of the best examples of a salt marsh in Britain and is of international importance for its enormous population of wintering wildfowl and waders. The award winning Saltmarsh Lamb, a local delicacy, is reared on Llanrhidian Marsh.

Highlights

The flora of Whiteford Burrows is exceptional and includes many rare breeds and local species, including early marsh orchid, fen orchid, early grass sand and dune gentian.

Look out for birds on the Marsh including the oystercatcher, knot, pintail and golden plover.

Designations

  • National Nature Reserve (NNR)
  • Special Protection Area (SPA)
  • Special Area of Conservation (SAC)
  • Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)
  • Ramsar site
  • Open access land
  • Llanrhidian Marsh is common land

Facilities

  • Bird hide on Whiteford Burrows
  • Nearest pub - Britannia Inn in Llanmadoc
  • Community shop and Post Office in Llanmadoc
  • Parking in farmers field in Llanmadoc

Access information

OS Explorer Map 164 Gower

Footpaths

There are footpaths around Whiteford Burrows. 

Llanrhidian Marsh is covered by the sea at high tide. At low tide this boggy area is criss-crossed by a maze of gullies and streams. The rapid incoming tides and boggy nature of this land make this area unsuitable for walking.

Car

Parking in farmers field between Llanmadoc and Cwm Ivy (honesty box for payment).

Buses

​Nearest bus stop Llanmadoc Green.

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