Idyllic beach spot that’s so in demand
WE are lucky to have so many beautiful places to stay in and around Swansea, and One Show presenter Alex Jones stayed in one of the best over the bank holiday weekend.
Offering a panoramic view of Rhossili Bay and Worm’s Head, the Old Rectory is the only building on the world-famous bay.
Alex has raved about the stunning beachside cottage after staying there with her husband Charlie Thomson, their three children Kit, Teddy and Annie, and extended family, where they spent the bank holiday weekend at the National Trust property.
Anyone who has been to Rhossili in Gower will have seen the splendidly isolated white house standing in acres of its own space above the beach.
According to the National Trust website, the cottage is heavily booked up until April 2026.
There are spaces though on May 20, 21 and 22 and between July 7 and 10.
The home mainly sees guests from the UK but they have even had visitors from as far as St Lucia in the Caribbean.
So what is it about this place that makes it so popular? The Old Rectory is set on a raised terrace in the centre of the dramatic landscape with uninterrupted views of the sea and the tidal island of Worm’s Head.
Built in the 1800s, the house has had an intriguing past from its role as a base for radar workers during the Second World War to starring in the hit TV series Torchwood. Recently renovated, the spacious four-bedroom house features light-flooded rooms, a large kitchen and cosy log burners.
On a summer’s evening, the cottage’s garden is the perfect place to sit out and watch the sunset over the beach.
With the beach just on your doorstep, the Old Rectory is ideal for family and friends celebrating a special occasion. Whether you want to sunbathe on the golden sands, fly a kite, build sandcastles, walk along the cliff-top, or swim in the sea, Rhossili Bay can offer it all, which makes it no surprise why this place is so popular.
The beach is also one of South Wales’ best surfing spots and the cottage has storage for surfboards and bodyboards in the outhouse.
Rachel Johnston, head of National Trust Holidays, has said: “The Old Rectory is one of our most popular holiday cottages, with many guests returning time after time. Recently renovated to a high standard with coastal touches that fit the stunning seaside location, which coupled with incredible views, ensures a holiday here is a truly wonderful experience.”
“The cottage is often booked by guests up to two years in advance and newly released dates sell out very quickly on our website, although you can occasionally find the odd break if you check regularly.”
She added: “Even before the coronavirus pandemic the majority of bookings for this cottage come from within the UK, however we’ve welcomed guests from as far as St Lucia to this beautiful spot in Wales.”