Scheduled MonumentsWalesPromontory Fort on Worms Head
Prehistoric · Promontory Fort - coastal

Promontory Fort on Worms Head

Wales
Cadw SAM GM492
Period
Prehistoric
Site type
Promontory Fort - coastal
Broad class
Defence
Nation
Wales
Boundary

Scheduled area

© Mapbox · © OpenStreetMap contributors · Boundary data © Cadw

Overview

History & significance

Promontory Fort on Worms Head is a prehistoric coastal defence situated on the distinctive headland of Worms Head, Gower Peninsula, Glamorgan, Wales. The fort is protected by natural rock formations and steep cliffs characteristic of promontory fort design, with defensive earthworks constructed across the narrower landward approach to maximise use of the dramatic coastal topography. Dating to the Iron Age, the site represents a significant example of Iron Age settlement and defensive strategy in South Wales, exploiting the peninsula's naturally fortified position to control access and provide protection. The fort's location on Worms Head, one of the most visually prominent features of the Gower landscape, suggests its strategic importance for territorial control and coastal observation during the later prehistoric period.

Promontory Fort on Worms Head is a scheduled monument protected by Cadw under reference GM492. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Promontory Fort on Worms Head?

Promontory Fort on Worms Head is a prehistoric coastal defence situated on the distinctive headland of Worms Head, Gower Peninsula, Glamorgan, Wales. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Cadw under reference GM492.

What period does Promontory Fort on Worms Head date from?

Promontory Fort on Worms Head dates from the prehistoric period, and is classified as a promontory fort - coastal. It is one of over 32,000 scheduled monuments protected across the UK.

Who is responsible for protecting Promontory Fort on Worms Head?

Promontory Fort on Worms Head 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 GM492.

What other scheduled monuments are near Promontory Fort on Worms Head?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Old Castle Camp (1.7 km), Lewes Castle Promontory Fort (2.1 km), Remains of Medieval Building & Church at Rhossili (2.3 km).

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