Visit Wales
Between the coast and the Stackpole National Nature Reserve, this circular hike passes through the splendid Welsh countryside. From the smallest port in Wales, Stackpole Quay, this beautiful path leads through small forests, to stunning beaches and bays, as well as over the wind-swept heights of the cliffs. The naturally formed stone arches, carved by the surf from the rock over millennia, are breathtaking. At the rocky outcrops, countless breeding seabirds can be observed in spring and summer, and the vast grassy and heathland areas are dotted with colorful flowers and grasses.
From the beautiful sandy beach Broad Haven South, various paths lead from the shore through a dune area inland. On the way to Bosherston, we cross two bridges over the famous lily ponds. With some luck, the heads of the otters living here emerge among the water lilies. Over the Eight Arch Bridge, we then return to Stackpole Quay. The bridge was built in 1797 to connect the village with the courthouse. Today, only its terrace can be seen further north along the lake.
Author’s recommendation
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Track types
Safety information
Caution is advised at the steep coastal sections.Tips and suggestions
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/stackpole/trails/stackpole-wildlife-walk
Roadbook
From the car park in Stackpole Quay (there is a cute little café here run by the National Trust) we follow the coastal path towards Barafundle Bay. In the bay, steps lead down to the beach, which we cross and then climb back up into the forest on the opposite side. We continue to follow the path along the coast towards Stackpole Head.
After a little over 4 km, we reach the beautifully scenic Broad Haven South beach. Here, paths lead from the shore through a dune area inland to the large lily pond. Over a small stone bridge at the southern tip of the lake, we head to Bosherston, where we can take a break.
Over the dam at Bosherston, we walk along the lake to the Grassy Bridge. We do not cross the lake here but stay on this side of the shore until the Eight Arch Bridge. After the bridge, we follow the Deer Park Track back to our starting point at Stackpole Quay.
Public transport
Public-transport-friendly
- Take the train to Pembroke
- From the station, continue by bus towards Angle
Directions
From Pembroke on the B4319 towards Stackpole and BosherstonParking
Right in Stackpole QuayCoordinates
Book recommendations for this region:
Equipment
Small hiking backpack (about 15 liters) with rain cover, comfortable footwear, weather-appropriate and durable layered clothing, sun and rain protection, provisions, and drinking water.Localization
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.

User Questions