A Guide To Gower
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Guide To Gower Edited by Don Strawbridge and Peter J. Thomas ISBN 0 902 767 23 2 Published 1999 Paperback 120 pages Available from The Gower Society, c/o Swansea Museum, Victoria Road, Swansea SA1 1SN.
A new edition of the guide first published in 1965, this is the sixth edition of what could be regarded as a classic. A small almost pocket-sized book packed with information. As many readers will be aware, the Gower peninsula is a mass of contrasts, part of the ever growing city of Swansea, and large expanses of breathtaking unspoiled scenery. It serves as a focus for the city's leisure activities, mainly upon the sandy beaches of the south coast, but also provides ample opportunity for leisurely secluded walks in lush green countryside. On a good summer day, the peninsular may cope with eighty thousand visitors yet it still survives as working countryside. A constant challenge to manage such diverse interests and needs! |
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Above: St Illtyd Church in Gower |
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| The Guide reflects the diversity of reasons that led to Gower being made an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1956. There is a Gazetteer documenting the various localities of note across the Peninsula, secondly, a series of articles on topics ranging from Bird Life to Gower History, the final section is a list of essential information, including reading lists and car parking (the latter being particularly important).The articles are written by a collection of acknowledged Gower experts and are basically reworkings of the earlier editions of the Guide. Where necessary they have been updated to reflect alterations in legislation or other changes. The articles on the history of Gower are by well known authority Bernard Morris. They provide a first class introduction to the castles and landscape of Gower. Whilst there are many books on the history of Swansea and its environs, the specific history of the peninsula is not particularly accessible in a reasonably priced book. The Gower Society are to be congratulated for including so many good articles in the Guide, and redressing the need for cheap and accessible local history. | |
| Even though the Guide is
stocked with first class content, there is an even greater treat in the stunning colour
photographs that illustrate the beauty of the landscape, wildlife and history of Gower.
They encourage you to go out and walk the suggested paths to experience the delights for
yourself. A wonderful bonus.
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