In a city blessed with amazing beaches, there's one in Swansea which whilst not the largest is a spectacular attraction in its own right. Sitting at the bottom of a valley, Pwll Du Bay beach is one of the least accessible in the city, with access limited to three footpaths.
So with there being many expansive and far easier located beaches across the city, what makes this one worth the extra effort? Anyone who has visited will tell you that once accessed, the experience is unlike anything else in the city. The beach is made up of a unique bank of thousands of pebbles, flanked by limestone cliffs, within a very secluded and picturesque location.
Its name translates to 'Black Pool' - the bank is partially blocked by a stream which has formed a large pool behind the beach, and filters through the pebble bank onto the beach. Get Swansea stories straight to your inbox with our newsletter.
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The website Explore South Wales writes of its history: "The bay is steeped in history having once been a haven for local smugglers. There is a nearby gully called Graves End which is marked by a circle of limestone rocks, so called due to the burial of several people who were found dead on the bay following a ship called The Caesar ending up wrecked upon the shore in 1760.
"The Caesar was an Admiralty tender ship on a recruitment mission when rough sea conditions on the channel drove it against the headland of Pwlldu. Although a few officers of the ship escaped with their lives, around 90 press ganged men all imprisoned below deck on the ship were not so lucky. Later, during the 19th century, it was a centre for Limestone quarrying and it's these rocks that give it its unique topography. Near the top of the cliff on the west side is the now overgrown remnants of one of the quarries which is reportedly a fascinating place to explore if you can find a way to access it. There are two cottages situated on the western side of the beach known as Seven Slades, these cottages were originally inns called The Ship and The Beaufort."
How to access the beach
Access is limited to three footpaths - along the coastal path or through Bishopston Valley. The distance between the car park at Bishopston or Southgate and beach is over 400m and may include difficult or rough terrain (SA3 2HL).
It is accessible via car and public transport at nearby Bishopston or Southgate. There is no wheelchair access or lifeguards. Dogs are permitted to go there all year round.
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