Top 7 Lakes in Pembrokeshire Coast
Best lakes in Pembrokeshire Coast offers a diverse range of aquatic environments, from man-made ponds to flooded quarries. The region is known for its dramatic coastline, but also features serene inland waters. These locations provide opportunities for nature observation, walking, and exploring unique geological formations. Visitors can experience both tranquil settings and areas with historical significance.
Best lakes in Pembrokeshire Coast
- The most popular lakes is Bosherston Lily Ponds, an other_natural lake system known for its exquisite summer displays of waterlilies. This area is a National Nature Reserve and offers opportunities for nature walks and wildlife spotting.
- Another must-see spot is Eight-Arch Bridge, Stackpole, a historical_site that provides beautiful views of the surrounding lakes. Built in 1797, this Grade II-listed bridge is part of the Stackpole Estate.
- Visitors also love Abereiddy Beach, a beach where the nearby Blue Lagoon, a distinctive flooded slate quarry, is located. The slate gives the water its iconic aqua-blue tint, making it a unique natural feature.
- Pembrokeshire Coast is known for its man-made lake systems, flooded quarries, and coastal waters. These areas offer a variety of experiences, from tranquil walks to exploring unique geological features.
- The lakes in Pembrokeshire Coast are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 220 upvotes and over 110 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
Barafundle Bay
Highlight • Natural
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Bosherston Lily Ponds
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Solva Harbour
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Abereiddy Beach
Highlight • Parking
Parking is charged £4 between 8am-5pm through the summer and is free outside these times.
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Saundersfoot Harbour and Beach
Highlight • Beach
Wide, flat sandy beach at low tide, but also plenty of space at high tide. Pretty harbor, breathtaking views from above.
Please note: between May 1st and September 30th, dog restrictions apply to the entire beach except for a small area just before Coppet Hall Beach.
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Tips from the Community
Absolute “insider tip”. One of the most beautiful beaches in the region if not the whole of the UK
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This beach is made up of pebbles and exceptionally dark sand made from crushed grey slate. The slate gives the water in the "Blue Lagoon" its bright deep blue colour. To the north of the beach is a lovely little harbour - an open-cut quarry that is also wheelchair accessible. Be careful: there are strong currents here.
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This is one of Pembrokeshire's finest beaches. He is often referred to as the "Jewel in the Crown". The beach is lined with dunes and trees. It is owned and managed by the National Trust. Barafundle is only accessible via the coastal path.
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Small artist place with charming cafes and pubs.
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The Lily Ponds, a group of freshwater lakes, are part of a large wildlife sanctuary in the area and are home to a variety of wildlife including otters, wildfowl and dragonflies. About history: The Lily Ponds were the brainchild of one of Pembrokeshire's most important noble families, the Cawdors, who owned thousands of acres of parkland and farmland in South Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and Nairnshire (Scotland). In Castlemartin Corse, the Cawdors converted several acres of wet barrens, described as "perfect bog", into good, productive farmland. They also devoted their attention to enhancing their estate in the form of ambitious landscaping, damming the valley of two rivers into ornamental lakes and building a magnificent new mansion on a site overlooking the water. They also built the eight-arched stone bridge over one of the lakes and laid out the lily pond, where a footpath leads down to Broad Haven South Beach and a wooden bridge crosses the pond for a close-up view of the beautiful blooms.
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It takes a lot of luck to spot otters at the right moment...
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Despite a well-filled parking lot, the paths around the lake were not overcrowded. Beautiful views - and with a bit of luck you can spot an otter (unfortunately we didn't manage to).
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular walking trails around the lakes in Pembrokeshire Coast?
The area around Bosherston Lily Ponds offers beautiful, leisurely walks, especially in summer when the water lilies are in bloom. A popular route is the loop from Bosherston Lily Ponds to Barafundle Bay, which is about 9.8 km long and considered moderate. You can find more hiking options in the region by visiting the Hiking in Pembrokeshire Coast guide.
Are there family-friendly lakes or activities in Pembrokeshire Coast?
Yes, Bosherston Lily Ponds are highly recommended for families, offering easy nature walks and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Eight-Arch Bridge, Stackpole, also within the Stackpole Estate, is another family-friendly viewpoint with historical interest.
Where can I find unique natural features or viewpoints around the lakes?
The Blue Lagoon, located near Abereiddy Beach, is a distinctive flooded slate quarry known for its iconic aqua-blue water. It's a striking natural feature and a popular spot for adventure activities. For tranquil views, the Bosherston Lily Ponds offer picturesque scenery, especially during the summer lily bloom.
What historical sites are near the lakes in Pembrokeshire Coast?
The Eight-Arch Bridge, Stackpole, built in 1797, is a Grade II-listed historical site offering beautiful views of the surrounding lakes within the Stackpole Estate. It's a significant landmark connecting parts of the estate.
Can I go wild swimming in any of the Pembrokeshire Coast lakes?
The Blue Lagoon at Abereiddy is a popular spot for swimming and coasteering, known for its unique blue water. For a more secluded experience, Rosebush Quarry, south of the Preseli Mountains, offers a tranquil lake for an 'altitude dive' experience, though it's less accessible.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The Bosherston Lily Ponds, being a National Nature Reserve, are teeming with wildlife. You might spot otters, various wildfowl, and dragonflies, especially in summer. The area around the Eight-Arch Bridge is also known for otters and diverse birdlife.
When is the best time to visit the lakes in Pembrokeshire Coast?
The summer months, particularly June, are ideal for visiting the Bosherston Lily Ponds to see the water lilies in full bloom. Generally, late spring to early autumn offers pleasant weather for walking and outdoor activities around the lakes.
Are there options for cycling near the lakes?
Yes, Pembrokeshire Coast offers various cycling routes. While not directly adjacent to all lakes, you can find road cycling options in the region. For example, the Road Cycling Routes in Pembrokeshire Coast guide lists several tours, including a difficult 64 km loop around Saundersfoot, Laugharne, and Narberth.
What are the parking options for visiting the lakes?
Parking is available at locations like Abereiddy Beach, which serves as a gateway to the Blue Lagoon. Parking charges may apply during peak seasons. For Bosherston Lily Ponds, parking is typically available in the nearby village of Bosherston.
Are there cafes or pubs near the lakes for refreshments?
The coastal village of Solva Harbour, while not a lake itself, is a bustling spot with cafes, shops, and galleries, making it a great place to stop for refreshments if you're exploring the wider Pembrokeshire Coast. For Bosherston Lily Ponds, the village of Bosherston has local amenities.
What makes Rosebush Quarry unique among Pembrokeshire's lakes?
Rosebush Quarry, located south of the Preseli Mountains, offers a more secluded and tranquil lake experience. Its water has a distinctive green hue from the surrounding slate rock, and it sits over 300 meters above sea level, providing a unique 'altitude dive' opportunity for those seeking an explorative swim.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in Pembrokeshire Coast?
Visitors frequently praise the serene beauty of places like Bosherston Lily Ponds for their nature walks and abundant birdlife. The unique aqua-blue water and adventure activities at the Blue Lagoon are also highly appreciated for their distinctiveness and excitement.
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