New Book Explores The Haunted History Of Swansea & The Gower

'Paranormal Swansea & Gower' by Mark Rees is a creepy collection of ghostly hauntings and eerie tales from Swansea and the Gower Peninsula, the latest instalment in Amberley Publishing's popular Paranormal series.

Swansea has long been shrouded in magic and mystery, with its landscape dotted by ruined castles said to be inhabited by ghosts. The region has also witnessed significant turmoil, from early Viking invasions to the devastating three-night blitz by the Luftwaffe during the Second World War.

This book holds a personal significance for me, as The Gower was a cherished holiday destination for my family when I was a child, a place I continue to visit with nostalgia today.

The book features over 100 photographs that showcase Swansea's most famous and paranormally active sites, bringing the eerie atmosphere of these locations to life. It follows South Wales -based journalist and author, Mark's, previous explorations of the unexplained in his 2020 publication, 'Paranormal Wales', and 2023's 'Paranormal Cardiff'.

In 'Paranormal Swansea & Gower', Mark takes readers on a spine-chilling journey to dozens of supposedly haunted locations, ranging from well-known tourist spots like Mumbles Pier and Swansea Museum to more secluded, lesser-known sites off the beaten track.

Among these are tales of ancient soldiers whose spirits are said to wage war on the beaches at dusk, Gothic ruins guarded by terrifying apparitions, and a family home haunted by the ghost of a murderer who returned to torment his former neighbours. The book also explores the story of the Swansea Devil, a 'cursed' work of art lurking in the museum, and the miller who continues to toil at a historic watermill long after his death.

'Paranormal Swansea & Gower' delves deep into the world of ghosts and spirits in the city and surrounding areas, following in their spectral footsteps into the unknown. These stories will not only delight those with a passion for ghost hunting but also fascinate anyone with a connection to or interest in Swansea.

Of particular interest to me are the hauntings of The Gower, where the golden sands are steeped in Arthurian legend and seafaring tales of smugglers and pirates. The peninsula is home to places like Rhossili Bay, where the sands are said to be haunted by a former vicar who once served at the old rectory overlooking the bay. There's also Port Eynon’s ruined salt house, where spectral smugglers have been sighted, and the curse of Pennard Castle, perched high above Three Cliffs Bay. I was intrigued to learn that Rhossili is also home to one of the most haunted roads in the UK, where a phantom lady in white has been seen.