
Bosherston Lily Ponds
Serene lily ponds and picturesque coastal walks in Pembrokeshire, offering abundant wildlife and stunning natural beauty.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Lambs and blooming nature

Bosherston Lily Ponds
Best Time
Lambs and blooming nature

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Serene lily ponds and picturesque coastal walks in Pembrokeshire, offering abundant wildlife and stunning natural beauty.
"A lakeside stroll that ends with your toes in the sand? Only in Wales."

🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails and at Broad Haven South Beach.
🥾 Trail Variety
Choose routes based on fitness: some have bridges with single handrails, others are easier.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Lily Ponds
Bosherston Lily Ponds
Vast, tranquil lakes adorned with vibrant lily pads, a haven for wildlife and stunning photography.

Broad Haven South Beach
Adjacent to Lily Ponds
A beautiful, unspoiled sandy beach perfect for a post-walk stroll or a dip.

Scenic Walking Trails
Surrounding the ponds and coast
Explore well-maintained paths offering diverse routes, from short strolls to longer coastal walks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails and at Broad Haven South Beach.
🥾 Trail Variety
Choose routes based on fitness: some have bridges with single handrails, others are easier.
📸 Capture the Wildlife
Be patient to spot otters, herons, and other local fauna. Bring binoculars!
🚗 Parking Patience
The car park is small; arrive early or be prepared for a wait, especially during peak times.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails and at Broad Haven South Beach.
🥾 Trail Variety
Choose routes based on fitness: some have bridges with single handrails, others are easier.
📸 Capture the Wildlife
Be patient to spot otters, herons, and other local fauna. Bring binoculars!
🚗 Parking Patience
The car park is small; arrive early or be prepared for a wait, especially during peak times.
☕ Refuel Nearby
Pubs in Bosherston and a tea shop at Stackpole Quay offer refreshments.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning beauty of Bosherston Lily Ponds, describing them as a tranquil gem with abundant wildlife. The connected walks to Broad Haven South Beach are a major highlight, offering a perfect blend of serene nature and coastal charm. While parking can be a challenge, the overall experience is highly recommended for its picturesque scenery and peaceful atmosphere.
"A remarkable and beautiful set of big lakes artificially created with various dams. Tranquil and full of wildlife (be patient and you might see the otters). Close to Broad Haven and Barafundle beaches with pubs at Stackpole and Bosherston and an NT tea shop at Stackpole Quay. Various NT car parks which are fairly expensive if you’re not a member"
Paul Williams
"This place was amazing! We took the left path that has all the cool bridges. Which I wouldn’t recommend for small children as there’s only one handrail. The right trail is much easier and safer for little ones. Dog friendly on trail and at the beach. Beautiful lilies everywhere. Met some really nice people along the way too! Would highly recommend and anxious to do it again."
S Moon
"A day out for the family with trails of different distances. Well maintained footpaths and foot bridges over the lily ponds. A lovely clean beach with a water in let that is dog friendly. There are some steps and gradients so do not be fooled into thinking this is just a walk around the lily ponds as there is much more to offer. Be warned the car park is too small for the amount of visitors so you may have to wait for a space. The parking charge at the time I visited was £7 for the day which helps with the costs of the park and there is free toilets at the car park."
Darren Lloyd
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Bosherston Lily Ponds is by car, with a National Trust car park available at Bosherston (postcode SA71 5DH). Public transport options are limited, so driving is recommended for ease of access.
Yes, there is a National Trust car park. However, it's known to be small and can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Arriving early is advised. Parking fees apply.
While public transport is not ideal, some visitors have used local bus services to reach nearby villages like Bosherston and then walked to the ponds. It's best to check local bus timetables in advance.
The postcode for the National Trust car park at Bosherston is SA71 5DH.
Yes, there are free toilets located at the National Trust car park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Bosherston Lily Ponds themselves is free. However, parking at the National Trust car park incurs a fee.
Parking at the National Trust car park costs £7 for a full day, as of recent information. National Trust members can park for free.
The Bosherston Lily Ponds are accessible year-round during daylight hours. The car park opening times may vary, so it's best to check with the National Trust.
Some paths are well-maintained and suitable for pushchairs, but others can be uneven or have steps. The right-hand trail is generally easier for pushchairs than the left.
Yes, you can easily walk from the Lily Ponds to Broad Haven South Beach, which is a popular and rewarding extension to the walk.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the series of large, tranquil lakes filled with lily pads. You can also spot diverse wildlife, including otters and herons. The area also connects to beautiful coastal walks and Broad Haven South Beach.
Absolutely! There are various circular walking routes of different lengths, from short strolls around the ponds to longer 8-mile loops that include coastal paths and nearby beaches.
Yes, the lily ponds offer stunning natural beauty, especially during spring and autumn. The bridges, reflections, and wildlife provide excellent photographic opportunities.
Visitors often report seeing grey herons, various waterfowl, and if you're patient and lucky, otters.
You can spend anywhere from 1-2 hours for a short walk around the ponds to a full day if you combine it with a walk to the beach and explore the surrounding coastline.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are pubs in the village of Bosherston and a National Trust tea shop at Stackpole Quay, which is a short walk or drive away.
Picnics are a great option, especially with the beautiful scenery. There are many spots along the walking trails where you can stop and enjoy your food.
There are no restaurants directly on the ponds themselves, but the nearby village of Bosherston and Stackpole Quay offer dining options.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, creating beautiful reflections and softer tones. Autumn also provides stunning colours.
Popular subjects include the lily pads themselves, the charming bridges over the water, reflections, and any wildlife you might spot, such as herons or otters.
The various bridges offer unique perspectives. Walking the trails will naturally lead you to picturesque spots. The connection to Broad Haven South Beach also provides dramatic coastal shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A polarizing filter can enhance the colours of the water and foliage.
Drone usage is generally restricted in National Trust properties to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's best to check the specific National Trust guidelines for the area before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for the easier, safer trails mentioned by visitors, which are more suitable for little ones. The chance to spot wildlife like ducks and potentially otters can also be a great source of excitement for children.
🚶♀️ Walkers and Hikers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Creation and Restoration of the Lily Ponds
Recent efforts have focused on the restoration and maintenance of these beautiful ponds. This involves managing water levels, clearing invasive species, and ensuring the health of the aquatic ecosystem. These conservation efforts are crucial for preserving the ponds' beauty and supporting the diverse wildlife that calls them home. Visitors can appreciate the ongoing work that keeps this area so special.
Wildlife Spotting at the Ponds
To enhance your wildlife viewing experience, consider bringing binoculars. Early mornings and late afternoons are often the best times to see animals as they are more active. Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitat. The presence of these creatures adds an extra layer of magic to the tranquil atmosphere of the ponds.
Connecting to the Coast: Beaches and Bays
For those seeking more extensive coastal exploration, the Lily Ponds serve as a fantastic starting point for longer coastal path walks. Popular routes include journeys to Stackpole Quay, Barafundle Bay, and St. Govan's Chapel. These walks offer breathtaking sea views, dramatic cliffs, and the chance to discover hidden coves. The combination of serene inland ponds and rugged coastline makes this area incredibly diverse and captivating.

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