Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Stackpole Estate
Run by the National Trust (NT),
Stackpole Estate
(NT; 01646-661359; admission free;
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
; dawn-dusk)
takes in 8 miles of coast, including two fine beaches, a
wooded valley and a system of artificial ponds famous for their spectacular display of wa-
ter lilies.
Sights
Stackpole Elidor Church
This pretty little church with its tall, slender tower is nestled in a wooded valley. The
earliest parts of the church date back to the 12th century, with 14th-century vaulting in the
transepts. Stackpole was the seat of the Campbells, earls of Cawdor, and the church con-
tains elaborate effigies of Elidor de Stackpole and his wife, and Lord Cawdor, who fea-
tured in the French invasion of Fishguard.
CHURCH
Stackpole Quay
The tiny picturesque harbour of Stackpole Quay marks the point where pink and purple
sandstone gives way to the massive grey limestone that dominates the South Pembroke-
shire coast from here to Freshwater West. There's an NT car park with information leaf-
lets, and a good tearoom.
HARBOUR
Barafundle Bay
Regularly voted one of Britain's most beautiful beaches, Barafundle Bay is a scenic
10-minute walk south along the coast path from Stackpole Quay. It is a gorgeous spot but
its reputation has put paid to seclusion and on summer weekends it can get pretty crowded
despite the lack of road access. Come out of peak season and you may just have the whole
place to yourself, though. If you're up for more walking, follow the coast path south of the
beach out onto
Stackpole Head
with its impressive cliffs and rock arches.
BEACH
Bosherston Lily Ponds
Criss-crossed by a network of footpaths and wooden bridges, the famous Bosherston Lily
Ponds are a wonderfully tranquil spot to stroll. The lilies bloom in June and July but the
surrounding woodlands are full of wildlife year-round. The ponds are home to otters, her-
ons and more than 20 species of dragonfly, while the ruins of the manor house are inhab-
OUTDOORS
