Burry Holmes Hermitage

Facing the mainland on the eastern side of Burry Holms islet are the weathered remains of a medieval religious settlement linked to St Cenydd, the sixth-century saint associated with nearby Llangennith. 

Today only low stone foundations and fragments of walling survive, but archaeological excavations have shown that this was once a substantial hermitage complex, including a chapel, living quarters, a hall and possibly a small schoolroom. 

The visible ruins date back to circa C13th, although evidence suggests that a religious community may have occupied the island long before the Norman period. 

Set against the backdrop of Rhossili Bay and the dunes of Llangennith, these lonely remains are a reminder of the islet's long history as a place of worship, retreat and pilgrimage.