Oxwich Towers

Standing stones and weathered walls are all that remain of this 13th-century fortified manor house, perched on the edge of Oxwich Bay. The ruins might look like any old pile of rocks from a distance, but get closer and you'll spot the distinctive round towers that give the place its name. What's left suggests this was once quite the statement property - part castle, part manor house, built by the de la Bere family who clearly had money to burn.

History buffs will appreciate the medieval masonry and the strategic coastal position, though there's not masses to see compared to grander Welsh castles. The setting is the real draw here. Views across Oxwich Bay are properly stunning, especially on a clear day when you can see right across to Devon.

Kids might lose interest after twenty minutes unless they're the castle-obsessed type. It's essentially a ruin to clamber around, so expect them to treat it as an adventure playground rather than a history lesson.

The towers work brilliantly as part of a Gower Peninsula day out. You're minutes from Oxwich Beach and close to several holiday parks including Three Cliffs Bay Holiday Park and Bank Farm Leisure. Pop by after a morning on the beach or combine it with a walk along the coastal path. Free to visit, though parking might cost you.