Cefn Bryn

Cefn Bryn is a 5-mile long ridge of common land, known locally as the backbone of Gower. One of the main attractions of the Bryn is a large Neolithic monument called Arthur's Stone not far from the summit of the ridge.

There are also three Bronze Age burial cairns northwest of Arthur's Stone.

Commoners' livestock including sheep, cattle and ponies graze Cefn Bryn and are often seen wandering the road that crosses it. This livestock is an essential part of the management of this land which is of International importance for nature conservation. Centuries of management by commoners has created a rich mosaic of habitats and associated wildlife.

Broad Pool, managed by the Wildlife Trust, is adjacent to the road which dissects the Bryn. The National Trust own a small area of the common by Penmaen.

Highlights

The wildlife, views and archaeological interest of this site are the key attractions of this area. There are many protected and rare species on the common such as the marsh fritillary butterfly, skylark and brown hare.

Designations

Common Land
Open Access land
Special Area of Conservation (SAC)
Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)
Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC)
3 Scheduled Ancient Monuments (SAMs) including Arthur's Stone, Pen y Crug Round Barrow and Round Cairn West of Arthur's Stone

The common lies within:

Gower Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)
West Gower landscape which is included in the Register of Landscapes or Outstanding Historic Interest in Wales (CCW/CADW: Welsh Historic Monuments/ICOMOS UK 1998, 53-56)

Facilities

King Arthur pub in Reynoldston
Reynoldston shop and post office
Public telephone by Reynoldston shop
Cilibion Garage (has small shop)
Nicholaston Farm shop and café (check for opening times)

Access information

Grid Reference SS500905
OS Explorer Map 164 Gower

Footpaths

There are numerous footpaths crossing the site.

Car

There is no official car park although there is a small, rough pull in at the top of the Bryn and plenty of on-street parking opportunities in the villages surrounding Cefn Bryn.