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Oxwich Village |
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The village of Oxwich is well worth a visit with its secluded church, picturesque Castle and the Oxwich Bay Hotel. Approaching Oxwich from the junction with the A41148 the road winds steeply downhill to reveal the Nature Reserve of Oxwich Marsh which is separated from the beach by a margin of sand dunes. The area is comprised of a number of different habitats – salt marsh, sand dunes, freshwater lakes and wooded cliffs. The soil has a high chalk content and certain species of orchid thrive here particularly the bee orchid and pyramidal orchid are flower in June. A wide range of birds visit area including bittern, reed warblers and wildfowl such as teal. Some unusual species of invertebrate inhabit the area notably the Beachcomber beetle which hides under driftwood and the Hairy Dragonfly. St Iltyd’s church, Oxwich is situated at the far end of the village nestling beneath the headland between woodland and sea. Although the present building is largely 13th century it is thought that Christians have worshipped at this site since the 6th century. A striking stone effigy inside the church of an armoured knight and his lady is thought to be of the Norman family ‘the Doolamurs’ ( the de la Mers) probably dating back to the 15th century. The couple drowned in Oxwich bay. The inscribed bell in the tower dates from the 14 th century with the chancel being the oldest part of the church and the smallest in Gower. The font itself is believed to have been placed by St Iltyd himself. Outside in the courtyard an old well abounds with legend as the ghostly presence of a white horse was once seen disappearing into the well The grave of a First World War sailor who was found washed up on the beach bears the inscription ‘known unto God.’ The Methuen - Cambell family of the nearby Penrice estate retains ownership over Oxwich car park and several holiday cottages. There is a café next to the beach car park as well as a kiosque and beach side café. The car park gives direct access onto the beach. |
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