Oxwich Bay and Nicholaston Woods Walk
Swansea
Oxwich Bay is a sweeping curve of fine sand backed by the dunes of Oxwich Burrows and the ancient woodland of Nicholaston Woods, a National Nature Reserve and one of the great dog friendly walks of South Wales. This easy circular walk climbs through the bluebell woods of Nicholaston, drops down to the bay and returns along the long beach back to the car park.
The woodland paths are uneven in places with a couple of small stiles but no significant climbs, well suited to dogs of all ages. Oxwich is one of fifteen Welsh beaches that allow dogs all year round, and the firm sand at low tide is perfect for off lead running. Watch for cattle and sheep in the fields adjacent to the woods. There is a large pay and display car park at the bay with the dog friendly Oxwich Bay Hotel beach garden right behind, and toilets at the car park.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 6.5 km (4.0 miles)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 2 hr 30 min
- Walk Type
- Woodland, Coastal
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- High
- Livestock Risk
- Low
- Facilities
- Toilets at Oxwich Bay car park, dog friendly Oxwich Bay Hotel garden directly on the beach.
- Parking
- Pay and display car park at Oxwich Bay, around 200 spaces.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Oxwich Bay and Nicholaston Woods Walk dog friendly?
Very much so — it earns a 9/10 dog friendly rating and is one of the standout dog walks in South Wales. The route takes in ancient bluebell woodland and a long sandy beach, and Oxwich is one of only fifteen Welsh beaches that welcome dogs all year round, so there are no seasonal restrictions to worry about.
Can dogs be off lead at Oxwich Bay and Nicholaston Woods Walk?
The beach at Oxwich Bay is a great spot for off lead runs, with firm sand at low tide giving dogs plenty of room to stretch their legs. You'll want to keep leads handy for the sections adjacent to the woods, where cattle and sheep graze in nearby fields.
What should I know before visiting Oxwich Bay and Nicholaston Woods Walk with my dog?
The woodland paths through Nicholaston are uneven in places and there are a couple of small stiles to navigate, so it's worth bearing that in mind if your dog struggles with those. On the plus side, there's a large pay and display car park at the bay, toilets on site, and the dog friendly Oxwich Bay Hotel beach garden right behind the beach — a handy stop for refreshments after your walk.
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