Gower Heritage Centre
Step back in time at a 12th-century mill with a working water wheel, blacksmithing demos, and farm animals. A charming heritage experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Festivals & events abound!
Gower Heritage Centre
Best Time
Festivals & events abound!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at a 12th-century mill with a working water wheel, blacksmithing demos, and farm animals. A charming heritage experience.
"A charming day out with a little bit of history and a relaxing wander."
🚗 Parking Included
All-day parking is included in the entry fee, though the car park can be small. :car:
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
The Gower Inn nearby is very dog-friendly, perfect after exploring. :dog:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Working Water Wheel
The Mill
Witness the power of the past with a beautifully restored 12th-century water wheel in action.
Craft Workshops & Blacksmithing
Various Studios
See skilled artisans at work and even try your hand at traditional crafts and blacksmithing.
Animal Encounters
Animal Pens
Delight the kids with a variety of farm animals, including hens, ducks, and geese.
Local Produce & Bakery
Shop & Bakery
Savor delicious baked goods, local produce, and even gluten-free and dairy-free options.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Gower Heritage Centre
Events & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Included
All-day parking is included in the entry fee, though the car park can be small. :car:
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
The Gower Inn nearby is very dog-friendly, perfect after exploring. :dog:
🍰 Gluten & Dairy-Free Options
Great options available, including flapjacks and meals. Dairy-free milk for drinks too. :cookie:
🚶♀️ Walk to Three Cliffs Bay
It's a scenic 20-minute walk to the stunning Three Cliffs Bay. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Included
All-day parking is included in the entry fee, though the car park can be small. :car:
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
The Gower Inn nearby is very dog-friendly, perfect after exploring. :dog:
🍰 Gluten & Dairy-Free Options
Great options available, including flapjacks and meals. Dairy-free milk for drinks too. :cookie:
🚶♀️ Walk to Three Cliffs Bay
It's a scenic 20-minute walk to the stunning Three Cliffs Bay. :hiking_boot:
🎟️ Check Event Listings
Look out for festivals like Cheese & Cider or Americana. Some events are free! :ticket:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Gower Heritage Centre for its charm, historical significance, and family-friendly atmosphere. The working water wheel, craft demonstrations, and animal encounters are highlights. While the parking can be small, the overall experience is considered a delightful and worthwhile visit, especially with the added bonus of nearby attractions and good food options.
"Bigger than you would expect when you arrive. Lots of different items to see including animals for the children. Nice place to visit whatever the weather brings. Would say that the car park is rather small but that only adds to the charm of it all. Nice Bakery close by too."
Bill Kemp
"Love this place.
Lots of different activities for the kids to do.
Hens and other interesting birds are caged for your enjoyment, and there's a few ducks and geese to chat too if you're that way inclined.
If you like a sandy playground, you're in luck! There's a sandy playground.
There's a little bit of history and a relaxing wander, so it's a charming day out. We've been here a few times now and have never had a bad time.
It's changed recently and the food has moved to the main entrance area, when they now do tea and baked goods.
The old cafe space is run by a different company (why?) and was deserted when we popped our heads in. So that's not going to work.
Also there's a tiny cinema and excellent silversmith nearby, so that's another feather in its cap.
Go heritage!"
Ganondorf Salad
"We found this place because we were looking for a fast Electric Vehicle/ EV charger but while charging we discovered it was a treasure trove. We learnt all about the activities they had on site, bought some lovely local produce from the shop and had a good lunch.
There is a bakery near the car park as well as baked goods inside (savories like pasties as well as brownies etc) as well as hot food available. They had a gluten and dairy free flapjack which was great and they were able to cook a gluten and dairy free meal of chicken bites and sweet chilli dip. They had dairy free milk available for hot drinks."
B T
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Gower Heritage Centre is located in Parkmill, Gower. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. For those looking for an overnight stay, it's a popular spot for campervans and vehicles, costing around £20 per night with access to toilets and showers.
Yes, all-day parking is included in the entry fee. However, visitors note that the car park can be rather small, which adds to the charm for some.
One visitor discovered the Gower Heritage Centre while looking for an EV charger, suggesting it might be a convenient stop for electric vehicle owners.
Absolutely! It's a pleasant 20-minute walk to the stunning Three Cliffs Bay, making it a great base for exploring the Gower Peninsula.
Opening hours can vary, especially with special events. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information, particularly if you're planning to visit for a specific event or workshop.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees are generally reasonable, and often include all-day parking. Specific pricing for events like festivals may vary, so it's advisable to check their website for current ticket information.
Yes, some events like cooking demos are free with online booking, and Sunday performances at festivals can also be free. Always check the event details for specifics.
For most regular visits, tickets can be purchased on arrival. For popular festivals and events, booking in advance is often recommended to secure your spot.
Definitely! It offers a charming mix of history, crafts, animals, and local food, making it a perfect destination for a relaxed day out.
For specific craft workshops or bespoke sessions, it's highly recommended to get in touch with InspireU Studios or check the Gower Heritage Centre website for booking details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore a 12th-century mill with a working water wheel, watch blacksmithing demonstrations, visit craft workshops, and interact with farm animals. There's also a small cinema and a shop selling local produce.
Yes, children will love the farm animals, the sandy playground, and the chance to see traditional crafts. They even host rubber duck races down the leat! +1
The centre has hens, ducks, geese, and other interesting birds caged for viewing.
Yes, it's a popular spot for overnight stays in vehicles or campervans for around £20, offering toilet and shower facilities.
While it's a historic site, efforts are made to make it accessible. The food service has moved to the main entrance area, and there are various activities to engage with.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There's a bakery selling fresh croissants and baked goods, as well as savories like pasties. Hot food, including burgers and meals, is also available. They offer gluten and dairy-free options.
Yes, you can get freshly made coffee and treats. Dairy-free milk is available for hot drinks.
The centre is accommodating, with visitors mentioning gluten and dairy-free flapjacks and meals like chicken bites with sweet chilli dip.
The food service has been consolidated at the main entrance area, offering tea and baked goods. The old cafe space is currently run by a different company.
You can purchase a variety of lovely local produce from the shop, which is a great way to support local businesses.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic working water wheel, the blacksmiths at work, the charming farm animals, and the picturesque setting of the 12th-century mill. The nearby Three Cliffs Bay is also a stunning photographic subject.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to observe and photograph the craft demonstrations, including blacksmithing and other artisan skills.
Festivals like the Gower Cheese & Cider Festival or Americana festivals often provide vibrant and colorful scenes perfect for photography. 
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light for photography, especially around the water wheel and the historic buildings. Weekdays generally have fewer crowds, allowing for more relaxed shooting.
Generally, photography for personal use is welcomed. However, for commercial purposes or if specific exhibits require it, it's always best to check with the centre staff.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the play, the craft workshops and blacksmithing demonstrations offer educational and engaging experiences. The centre also provides gluten and dairy-free food options, making meal times easier. Plus, the proximity to Three Cliffs Bay means you can combine your visit with a beautiful coastal walk.
🚗 Campervan & Vehicle Stays
It's a great base for exploring the Gower Peninsula, with the stunning Three Cliffs Bay just a short walk away. You can enjoy fresh coffee and treats from the shop and bakery before heading out for the day.
🎶 Music & Festival Enthusiasts
+1Keep an eye out for performances by local musicians, like those featured at the Red Lady of Paviland festival. Some events, like Sunday courtyard performances, can even be free to attend.
It's the perfect place to soak up local culture and enjoy a lively atmosphere. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Beyond the mill itself, the centre hosts various heritage activities and demonstrations. This includes blacksmithing, where you can witness the fiery art of metalworking, and a range of craft workshops that allow visitors to engage with traditional skills. These hands-on experiences provide a unique insight into the skills and trades that were once vital to the region.
The centre also plays a role in preserving local culture through events like the Gower Wassail and various festivals. These gatherings often feature traditional music and activities, further immersing visitors in the heritage of the Gower Peninsula. It’s a place where history isn't just observed, but actively experienced.
+1Family Fun and Activities
Beyond the animals, there's a sandy playground that provides a space for energetic play. For a bit of unique fun, visitors can participate in a rubber duck race down the mill leat – a charming activity that appeals to all ages.
With its blend of animals, play areas, and interactive experiences, the Gower Heritage Centre provides a wholesome and memorable day out for families looking for an educational and fun-filled adventure. The availability of gluten and dairy-free food options also makes dining a stress-free experience for families with dietary needs.
Events and Festivals
Music lovers can enjoy events like the Americana, Bluegrass, Country, & Folk Festival, offering a diverse range of genres and a lively atmosphere.
The centre also hosts seasonal events such as the Gower Wassail in January, a traditional celebration with a unique Mari Lwyd figure adding to the spectacle. Beyond these larger festivals, the centre frequently features cooking demonstrations with free tasting sessions, and hosts musicians for weekend performances.
+1 These events, often promoted on their social media, provide excellent opportunities to experience the local culture and enjoy a lively atmosphere. It's worth checking their website or social media channels for the latest event schedules. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit