Stackpole wildlife walk
This walk takes in some of the finest wildlife habitats in Pembrokeshire: limestone cliffs with breeding seabirds, beaches, dunes and freshwater lakes.
Map
Start:
Car park at Stackpole Quay, grid ref: SR990958
1
From Stackpole Quay car park, follow the coast path to Barafundle. Pause at the top of the steps to look down on Stackpole Quay, and at the change from limestone to old Red sandstone to your left.
2
When you reach Barafundle, go down the steps to the sands. Cross the beach, and climb the steps through the woodland on the far side.
3
Follow the coast path towards Stackpole Head, pausing on your way to admire Lattice Windows, the natural stone arches below you. On Stackpole Head in spring and summer look for breeding seabirds on the ledges.
Stackpole head
This headland and arch - which you reach in section 3 of the walk - mark the most spectacular point along the coastline. The ledges are packed with guillemots in early summer. One day the arch will collapse, leaving an offshore stack.
4
Continue along the coast path, with the expanse of Stackpole Warrens grassland on your right. In spring and summer this is rich in wildflowers and butterflies.
5
Several possible routes take you down to the shore of the Bosherston Lakes. Aim for the lake outlet at the back of Broadhaven Beach. The narrow fringing reedbed is a great place for birdwatching breeding birds in summer, bitterns and water rails in winter.
6
Cross the tiny stone bridge over the spillway and follow the Western Arm path towards Bosherston. You can pause in Bosherston for refreshments; otherwise, stay on the path.
7
Cross the Bosherston Causeway, climb over the limestone bluff and cross the Central Causeway. These are the famous lily ponds. Look for water lilies from June to September. Follow the path down to the Grassy Bridge.
Bosherton Lily Ponds
These shallow lakes are famous for their water lilies in summer, but important for their beds of rare stonewort below the surface. Twenty four species of dragonfly have been recorded at Stackpole.These man-made lakes were created as part of Stackpole Court's designed landscape.
8
Don't cross the Grassy Bridge, but turn left and follow the Eastern Arm footpath up to the Eight Arch Bridge.
Eight Arch Bridge
The Eight Arch Bridge was built in 1797 to connect the Court to Stackpole Quay. You can see the terrace of the former Stackpole Court further up the lake; walk there if you've time. The bridge is the best place to look for otters.
9
Cross the Eight Arch Bridge, and follow the Deer Park track back to Stackpole Quay.
End:
Car park at Stackpole Quay, grid ref: SR990958
