Stack Rocks (Elegug Stacks)
Dramatic limestone stacks teeming with thousands of nesting seabirds, set against the stunning Pembrokeshire coastline.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peak seabird nesting season
Stack Rocks (Elegug Stacks)
Best Time
Peak seabird nesting season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dramatic limestone stacks teeming with thousands of nesting seabirds, set against the stunning Pembrokeshire coastline.
"Stunning coastal formations covered in Guillemots nesting, with breathtaking views and a unique wildlife spectacle."
🚗 Free Parking Available
A large, free car park is available near the stacks, with picnic areas. :car:
⚠️ Check Military Closures
The access road can be closed for military firing. Always check beforehand! :warning:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Elegug Stacks
Off the coast of Pembrokeshire, Wales
Dramatic limestone pillars teeming with seabirds, offering breathtaking coastal views and a unique wildlife spectacle.
+1
Seabird Colony
On the stacks
Witness thousands of guillemots and razorbills nesting and calling from May to early July.
Coastal Scenery
Surrounding cliffs and coastline
Stunning views of the Pembrokeshire coast, with opportunities for scenic walks and enjoying the sea air.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Military Range Schedule
Embrace the Wind and Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Free Parking Available
A large, free car park is available near the stacks, with picnic areas. :car:
⚠️ Check Military Closures
The access road can be closed for military firing. Always check beforehand!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Enjoy scenic walks around the area, but be prepared for coastal winds. :athletic_shoe:
🚫 No Toilets Onsite
There are no toilets at the car park, so plan accordingly. :noentrysign:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Free Parking Available
A large, free car park is available near the stacks, with picnic areas. :car:
⚠️ Check Military Closures
The access road can be closed for military firing. Always check beforehand!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Enjoy scenic walks around the area, but be prepared for coastal winds. :athletic_shoe:
🚫 No Toilets Onsite
There are no toilets at the car park, so plan accordingly. :noentrysign:
🌊 Brace for Wind
It's a coastal location, so expect it to be windy, especially near the cliffs. :windblowingface:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning coastal formations and the incredible spectacle of thousands of guillemots and razorbills nesting on the stacks, especially during spring. The free parking and scenic walks are also highly praised. However, some find the strong winds daunting, and the lack of on-site facilities and potential military closures can be inconvenient.
"Nice place ..nice view.. excellent colour of the water.. but i was a bit scared going close to the cliffs..it was very windy which is quite obvious....
On the bigger stacks, there were loads of razorbill na Gillmore birds..
Free car park but the place can be closed if there were military shooting planned on that day.. please check and go there.."
Anupam Ghosh
"Very nice walk, large car park which is free, and picnic area- you can enjoy your food, but no toilets"
Chamila Balagamage
"Stunning coastal formations. Stacks and stumps covered in Guillemots nesting this time of year. Nice scenic walks around the area. Big exposure to coastal winds.
A short 1-2 minute walk from a public car park. Free of charge on my visit. No toilets were currently available at the car park. No easy disabled access.
You are located very close to the green bridge, and the couldren so can see all 3 sites within 10 minutes walk of each other.
Would definitely recommend checking them all out."
Lee C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Stack Rocks are located on the southwest coast of Pembrokeshire, Wales. Access is typically via a road that passes through an army tank range. It's crucial to check the military firing schedule as the road can be closed.
Yes, there is a large, free car park available for visitors. It also includes picnic areas.
Unfortunately, there is no easy disabled access to Stack Rocks. The terrain can be uneven, and the proximity to the cliffs requires careful navigation.
Stack Rocks are very close to the Green Bridge of Wales and The Cauldron, making it possible to visit all three sites within a short walk of each other.
A short walk from the car park leads you to the stacks. Enjoy the scenic coastal walks around the area and take in the impressive views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Stack Rocks is a natural attraction and entry is free. The car park is also typically free of charge.
As a natural outdoor site, Stack Rocks does not have set opening hours. However, access may be restricted if the military is conducting exercises in the area.
There is no entrance fee for Stack Rocks. It is a free natural attraction for visitors to enjoy.
While the site itself is always accessible, it's highly recommended to check the military firing schedule as the access road can be closed.
The primary restriction is the potential closure of the access road due to military exercises. Always check this before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic limestone stacks, the vibrant seabird colonies (especially during nesting season), and the expansive coastal views offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Sunrise can also provide stunning light.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast coastal landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for photographing the seabirds from a distance.
With patience and a good zoom lens, you can capture great shots of the guillemots and razorbills. Remember to maintain a respectful distance.
Sunrise offers beautiful, soft light and fewer crowds. Midday can be harsh, but the birds are active. Late afternoon can also provide lovely golden hour light.
While some drone footage exists, it's essential to check local regulations regarding drone usage in national parks and coastal areas, as restrictions may apply.
🎫 🌿 Wildlife & Nature
Stack Rocks are famous for their large colonies of seabirds, including common guillemots and razorbills, which nest on the stacks from May to early July. You might also see fulmars, herring gulls, and black-backed gulls.
The most impressive time to see the seabirds is during their breeding season, from May to early July, when the stacks are covered in thousands of nesting guillemots and razorbills.
Visitors have reported seeing seals swimming near the stacks, adding another delightful wildlife encounter to the experience.
'Elegug' is the Welsh word for guillemot, reflecting the abundance of these birds that nest on the stacks.
The landscape features dramatic limestone stacks rising from the sea, rugged cliffs, and expansive coastal views, shaped by the powerful forces of nature.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the walk from the car park is short, the terrain can be uneven, so ensure children wear sturdy footwear. It's also wise to pack snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities on-site. Checking the military firing schedule is crucial to ensure your visit isn't cut short.
🐦 Birdwatchers and Wildlife Enthusiasts
+1 Bring your binoculars and telephoto lenses to get the best views of these fascinating creatures. Beyond the birds, keep an eye out for seals that have been spotted in the waters around the stacks. The dramatic coastal landscape itself is also a draw, providing a stunning backdrop for your wildlife observations. Remember to check for military closures before your trip to maximize your time for observation.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Walkers
Be prepared for the elements, as it can be quite windy along the coast. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended due to the uneven terrain. The combination of dramatic geology and abundant wildlife makes for a rewarding outdoor experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Elegug Stacks
+1The stacks are not just visually impressive; they are a crucial habitat for a diverse array of seabirds. From late spring through early summer, they become a bustling metropolis for thousands of common guillemots and razorbills. The sheer volume of birds, their calls, and their activity create a truly immersive natural spectacle.
Visitors can access the area via a public car park, though it's essential to be aware of potential closures due to military exercises on the nearby tank range. The proximity to other notable coastal features like the Green Bridge of Wales and The Cauldron makes it part of a scenic trio worth exploring.
Seabird Spectacle: A Springtime Delight
Observing these birds in their natural habitat is a highlight for many visitors. You can witness their intricate behaviors, from the bustling activity on the cliff faces to their graceful dives into the sea for food. The sheer density of the bird colonies is awe-inspiring, offering unparalleled opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
Beyond the guillemots and razorbills, other species like fulmars, herring gulls, and black-backed gulls also utilize the cliffs for nesting. This rich biodiversity makes Stack Rocks a significant site for nature enthusiasts and a testament to the health of the marine ecosystem.
Navigating Access and Amenities
Upon arrival, visitors will find a spacious and free car park, which also features picnic areas, making it a convenient spot to enjoy a meal amidst the stunning scenery. However, it's important to note that there are no toilet facilities available at the car park, so visitors should plan accordingly.
While the main viewing areas are relatively accessible from the car park, the terrain can be uneven, and there is no specific disabled access. Visitors should also be prepared for the strong coastal winds that are characteristic of this exposed location.
Social
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