Courthouse Wood

Ancient oaks tower overhead as you enter this proper Welsh woodland, where centuries-old trees create a natural cathedral of green. Courthouse Wood sprawls across the Carmarthenshire countryside, offering walkers a chance to escape into one of South Wales' less-trampled forests.

Families will find the terrain manageable, though parents should watch younger children on the uneven forest floor. Dog walkers absolutely love it here - plenty of space for energetic pups to roam safely among the trees. The woodland attracts serious hikers too, particularly those exploring the wider Gower Peninsula network of footpaths.

What makes this wood special is its mix of native species. You'll spot everything from towering beech to gnarled hawthorn, with seasonal wildflowers carpeting clearings in spring. Bird watchers often report woodpeckers and the occasional red kite circling overhead.

Allow a good two hours if you want to explore properly, though you could easily spend longer photographing the more impressive specimens. The wood connects to several public footpaths, making it well worth combining with a longer Gower walk.

Being roughly halfway between Swansea and the coast, it slots perfectly into a Gower Peninsula stay. Several holiday parks like Three Cliffs Bay and Oxwich Camping Park sit within easy reach, making Courthouse Wood an ideal morning expedition before heading to the beaches.