This circuit of the National Trust’s Stackpole Estate in south Pembrokeshire takes in Barafundle Bay, the limestone cliffs of Stackpole Head, the beach at Broad Haven South and the Bosherston Lily Ponds. The Trust’s wildlife walk on this line is 6 miles (9.6 km) and takes about four hours.
Where it starts
Start at the car park at Stackpole Quay (postcode SA71 5LS), a former limestone quarry that is now a small harbour. Follow the coast path to Barafundle, which has no road access, cross the sand and climb through the trees on the far side. The cliff path continues round Stackpole Head, past the natural arches of Lattice Windows, to Broad Haven South. From the lake outlet behind the beach, follow the western arm of the lakes towards Bosherston, cross the causeways and return by the eastern arm to the Eight Arch Bridge and the Deer Park track back to the quay.
Underfoot
Beach, grassy cliff tops and lakeside paths, with long flights of steps up from Stackpole Quay and down to Barafundle. Expect stiles, fields with livestock and some gradients.
When to take care
- Stay on the path and away from cliff edges, especially in wind or rain.
- Keep dogs on leads around Stackpole Warren and the lakes, where livestock graze.
- The permissive path between the Eight Arch Bridge and Stackpole Quay may be closed at times.
Distance: about 9 km (6 miles), round trip, measured along the line on the route map below.
The line is a guide to the route, not a substitute for a proper map. Carry an Ordnance Survey map, check the weather before you set off and allow plenty of time.
Walk it with us
Our Wales Coast Path holiday follows the Pembrokeshire coast around St Davids, further along the same coast path. We book your accommodation, move your luggage each day and provide route notes.
Photo: Gordon Hatton, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.