Scheduled MonumentsWalesHigh Pennard
Prehistoric · Promontory Fort- coastal

High Pennard

Wales
Cadw SAM GM045
Period
Prehistoric
Site type
Promontory Fort- coastal
Broad class
Monument
Nation
Wales
Boundary

Scheduled area

© Mapbox · © OpenStreetMap contributors · Boundary data © Cadw

Overview

History & significance

High Pennard is a prehistoric promontory fort situated on the Gower Peninsula in Swansea, Wales. The monument occupies a naturally defensive headland position overlooking the Bristol Channel and is defended by a substantial bank and ditch that cuts across the narrow neck of the promontory, creating an enclosed settlement area. Dating evidence and archaeological assessment place the fort within the Iron Age period, making it representative of the fortified coastal settlements characteristic of South Wales during this era. The site demonstrates the strategic importance of promontory positions for prehistoric and Iron Age communities, combining natural topographical advantages with constructed defences.

High Pennard is a scheduled monument protected by Cadw under reference GM045. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is High Pennard?

High Pennard is a prehistoric promontory fort situated on the Gower Peninsula in Swansea, Wales. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Cadw under reference GM045.

What period does High Pennard date from?

High Pennard dates from the prehistoric period, and is classified as a promontory fort- coastal. It is one of over 32,000 scheduled monuments protected across Britain.

Who is responsible for protecting High Pennard?

High Pennard is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Cadw — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in Wales. The official designation reference is GM045.

What other scheduled monuments are near High Pennard?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Bishopston Valley Camp (1.2 km), Chantry Acre medieval chapel (1.8 km), Caswell Cliff Fort (2.3 km).

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