Stackpole Estate

Description

Stackpole is both a listed designed landscape and an internationally important nature reserve. Footpaths radiate from the site of Stackpole Court, a grand mansion demolished before the National Trust owned this area. Exotic plantings in Lodge Park give way to mixed woodland further upstream. The famous Bosherston Lakes were created 200 years ago to provide a backdrop to Stackpole Court. 

They have evolved into a wildlife habitat famous for its otters, water birds and dragonflies. Cliffs, sand dunes and tiny coves alternate along eight miles of coastline. Barafundle is a jewel of a beach set between limestone cliffs and backed by dunes and woods. This secluded bay can only be reached by a cliff path walk from Stackpole Quay, with steep steps at either end. 

Stackpole Quay itself is a tiny harbour used by local fishermen and small pleasure boats. Broadhaven South, at the foot of the Bosherston Lakes, is another safe family bathing beach while Freshwater West, a few miles west of the main estate, is Wales's premier surfing beach. If you’re looking for the best place to visit with family and kids, this is a perfect choice for a fun and relaxing day out.

Features

  • Free
  • Host birthday parties: No

Features

  • Historic landscape: A Grade I listed historic landscape within a 3,000-acre estate on the Pembrokeshire Coast.
  • Bosherston Lily Ponds: Lakes created over 200 years ago as a backdrop to Stackpole Court that have evolved into a wildlife habitat famous for otters, water birds and dragonflies.
  • Walled garden and café: Tranquil and historic six-acre walled garden managed by Pembrokeshire Mencap with a café perfect for relaxing after walking around the estate.
  • Quay: A small harbour nestled amongst dramatic cliffs with a pebbled beach revealed at low tide.
  • Beaches: Two renowned golden sandy beaches, Barafundle Bay and Broad Haven South, both accessible from Stackpole Estate.
  • Family Days out at Stackpole Estate: A visit to the Stackpole Estate is like no other, with beaches, trails, history and 3,000 acres to explore for the whole family. Find out what delights to expect on your visit to this spectacular location.
  • Wildlife spotting at Stackpole Estate: Binoculars at the ready, Stackpole's teeming with flora and fauna all year round. Spot the infamous otters at the lakes, bats roosting in the woodland and butterflies on the wing. Or head to the acres of woodland and spot ancient trees and colourful flora displays.
  • Outdoor activities at the Stackpole Estate: Stackpole is a great spot for being active whilst enjoying the views. Start with a short stroll or run, explore in a kayak or traverse the coast by coasteering. Discover more about how to get involved and stay at this natural open space near the Pembrokeshire coast.
  • Stackpole Centre group accommodation and venue: A range of bunkhouses, lodges and holiday cottages suitable for groups, families, education, weddings and events with self-catering and catered options.
  • Tea-room: Located at Stackpole Quay, The Boathouse provides light snacks, refreshments and locally made ice cream.

Facilities

  • Parking: Pay and display at Stackpole Quay, Broad Haven South, Bosherston Lakes and Stackpole Court site.
  • Food & Drinks: Tea-room - The Boat House tea-room at Stackpole Quay.
  • Toilet: Toilets at the Stackpole Centre, Stackpole Quay and Broad Haven South beach.
  • Dogs allowed: Under close control. The estate has farm animals, ponies and wildlife, including otters, water birds and ground nesting birds. We ask that you keep your dog under close control and on a lead if necessary. Please do not leave your pet in the car.

What to see

Top trails: 

  • Bosherston Lily Ponds trail at Stackpole Estate: A walk around Bosherston's beautiful lily ponds, with options to explore the dunes and pools of the Mere Pool Valley behind Broad Haven South beach. The walk is accessed down uneven steps and terrain to the lakeside mostly along even gravel paths around the lake.
  • Stackpole Estate wildlife walk: Take in some of the finest wildlife habitats in Pembrokeshire on this coastal wildlife walk. Discover limestone cliffs with breeding seabirds including guillemots, as well as beaches, dunes and freshwater lakes with lilies and the chance to spot otters.
  • Secrets of Stackpole Court walk: This trail offers a chance to explore the amazing landscape and parkland designed by the Cawdor family as a backdrop to their grand house, Stackpole Court, which was demolished in 1963.
  • Stackpole Estate mountain bike trail: Head off the beaten track at Stackpole and discover some wilder spaces. In Castle Dock and Cheriton Bottom Woods, you’ll find a mountain bike trail with over 4 miles of climbs, twists, turns and jumps to test even the most experienced rider. Ride against an epic background of natural woodlands and seasonal sights as you uncover more of the Stackpole Estate.

Price

Price: Free

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

  • Coast and countryside: Dawn - Dusk
  • Boathouse Tea-room: 10:00 - 15:30
  • Car park: Dawn - Dusk

Time may vary please check here: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wales/stackpole-estate#place-opening-times

Address: Pembroke, UK

Post Code: SA71 4HH

Council: Pembrokeshire

County: Dyfed

  • By road: B4319 from Pembroke to Stackpole, Stackpole Quay and Bosherston for the Stackpole Estate (various entry points onto estate).
  • On foot: Via Pembrokeshire Coast Path.
  • By train: Nearest train station Pembroke 6 miles. Taxis available.
  • By bus: Private buses and coaches must be booked in advance and are only allowed at the Stackpole Centre due to narrow roads. The roads to Stackpole Quay cannot take very large vehicles. Public transport 387/8 (Coastal Cruiser) – Starting in Pembroke Dock and Angle Peninsula. To view the bus routes and timetables, please visit the Pembrokeshire County Council website.
  • Cycling: Cycle on the paths on the Stackpole Estate. The National Cycle Network.
  • By ferry: Nearest ferry is at Pembroke Dock 7.5 miles. Taxis available to book in advance.
  • Parking: Pay and display at Stackpole Quay, Broad Haven South, Bosherston Lakes and Stackpole Court site.

5.00

0 Reviews

Rating breakdown

5
80% Complete (danger)
0
4
80% Complete (danger)
0
3
80% Complete (danger)
0
2
80% Complete (danger)
0
1
80% Complete (danger)
0

Get the best blog stories into your inbox!