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Paviland Cave

Cave

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Coastal, Caves, Cliffs

Walking, Photography, Wildlife Watching

Year round

Photo: Sally via Geograph.org.uk

Paviland Cave, also called Goat's Hole, is a limestone cave in the sea cliffs of the south Gower coast, between Port Eynon and Rhossili, famous as the site of the oldest known ceremonial burial in western Europe. Here in 1823 William Buckland dug up a human skeleton stained with red ochre, which he ...

10

Parking nearby

0

Food Spots nearby

2

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

8 day, 2 overnight

Nefoedd Shepherds Hut, Brandy Cove

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Paviland Cave?
South Wales hosts this remarkable archaeological wonder right along the rugged Gower Peninsula coastline. Walkers usually spot the opening while exploring the wild paths that cut across the high cliffs.

What type of place is Paviland Cave?
Paviland Cave is a historic limestone cave on the coast of the Gower Peninsula in South Wales.

When is the best time to visit Paviland Cave?
Any season works well since the dramatic rock formations offer a great experience throughout the calendar year. Checking local tide timetables remains absolutely essential though, as rising coastal waters completely block the narrow mouth for most of the day.

What can you do at Paviland Cave?
Scrambling through the jagged opening allows you to stand inside an ancient stone chamber where early human groups once sought shelter. Photography enthusiasts frequently capture incredible coastal views looking straight out across the churning sea.

How long should I spend at Paviland Cave?
Allowing roughly an hour provides plenty of time to explore the dark cavern and appreciate the immense scale of the cliffs. Serious hikers often combine the stop with a much longer trek along the regional coast path.

Where do I park at Paviland Cave?
Spaces for ten vehicles exist in the vicinity, offering eight day and two overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Paviland Cave?
There are no food spots recorded immediately near Paviland Cave, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.

Where can I stay near Paviland Cave?
Nefoedd Shepherds Hut and Brandy Cove provide two options in the area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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