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Bosherston Lily Ponds

The Bosherston Lily Ponds, a group of idyllic freshwater lakes, are a wildlife reserve home to lilies, otters and dragonflies.

This popular attraction is located in Bosherston near Stackpole, Pembrokeshire. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lakes, keep your eyes peeled for otters and enjoy the marvellous display of lilies.

Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about Bosherston Lily Ponds…


Bosherston Lily Ponds, Pembrokeshire

Bosherston Lakes (or Bosherston Lily Ponds as they’re known) are part of the National Trust’s Stackpole Estate.

Lily Ponds with Eight Arch Bridge in background, Bosherton

In the 18th Century, The Cawdor’s, one of Pembrokeshire’s noble families, decided to damn the valley of two rivers, forming these ornamental lakes. A splendid new mansion was built on a site overlooking the water, as well as an eight-arched stone bridge across one lake.

When the Cawdors left in 1961, their mansion was demolished and the estate was eventually taken over by the National Trust.


Wonderful Wildlife

A host of delights for wildlife lovers can be found at Bosherston Lakes.

The lakes are famous for their spectacular display of water lilies and the charismatic otters that call the lily ponds home.

The white water lily flowers every year in June, creating a colourful spectacle not to be missed. The leaves and white blooms provide shelter for frogs and nectar for insects.

a lily pond with white lilies and lily pads floating on calm water

The Lily Ponds are also famous for their resident otters. Your best chance to spot them is at night, dawn or dusk. Keep your eyes peeled for these charming creatures, frolicking or feeding on fish.

You might also encounter the great spotted woodpecker, ‘drumming’ in spring, the hairy dragonfly, Britain’s smallest hawker, and the greater horseshoe bat, which comes out to feed at dusk and dawn. And keep an eye out for the tiny moorhens and their chicks dashing about on the lily pads!

There are lots of places to sit and admire the view along the way. Why not take a picnic with you and make a day of it. But watch out for the robins – they are so friendly they might just come and enjoy your sandwiches with you!


Bosherston Lily Ponds Opening Times

The Bosherston Lakes are open all year round and are free to explore, creating a great day out for the whole family.

Lily Ponds


How to Get There

The Lily Ponds are accessible from Bosherston Village (SA71 5DQ) or Broad Haven Beach, via the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path.

Bosherston Fish Ponds, Pembrokeshire, Wales


Bosherston Lily Ponds Circular Walk

Today, you can choose from a variety of walks depending on your energy levels. Make sure you take plenty of time to stop, look and listen as there is so much wildlife to spot and so much beauty to enjoy.

Let nature feed your senses.

The Bosherston Lily Ponds, surrounded by woodlands.

The Freshwater Magic Walk is one of our favourite walks around Bosherston Lily Ponds and is definitely worth checking out.

Explore the dunes and pools of the Mere Pool Valley behind Broadhaven Beach and marvel at the eye-catching water lilies as you stroll along the even gravel paths.

The walk takes approximately 30 minutes and starts from the Bosherston Lily Ponds Car Park (Grid Ref: SR966948).


When is the Best Time to Visit?

The walk and Lily Ponds are accessible all year round. If you want to see the lilies in their flowering glory, June is the best time to visit.


Places Nearby

At the far end of the lakes is Broad Haven South Beach, a popular dog-friendly beach in West Wales. Plus, the famous Freshwater West Beach (where The Shell House in Harry Potter was built!) is just a short drive away.

Broad Haven, Little Haven

If you fancy a pub lunch, then St Govan’s Inn is a short walk into the village of Bosherston. There is also the Ye Olde Worlde Cafe (known now as Bosh Tea Rooms) – which is perfect for afternoon tea. Check out our guide to the best restaurants in Pembrokeshire for more tasty options.

Looking to make a day of it? There are plenty of things to see and do in Pembrokeshire – you’ll be spoilt for choice.


If you’re looking for a place to stay whilst visiting Bosherston Lily Ponds, be sure to check out our range of holiday cottages in Pembrokeshire.