Stackpole Estate: A Coastal and Countryside Sanctuary in Pembrokeshire

A Storied Landscape of Natural Beauty and History

The Stackpole Estate, located between the villages of Stackpole and Bosherston in Pembrokeshire, Wales, is a remarkable 3,000-acre historic landscape within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Once the site of the grand Stackpole Court mansion, demolished in 1963, the estate today preserves its rich heritage through its extensive parkland, woodlands, and lakes. The Bosherston Lakes, created by damming limestone valleys over 200 years ago, have evolved into a vital habitat for wildlife, including otters, kingfishers, and the greater horseshoe bat, one of Britain’s largest colonies.

Coastal Wonders and Award-Winning Beaches

Stackpole’s coastline is renowned for its golden sandy beaches such as Barafundle Bay and Broad Haven South, both accessible via scenic cliff-top walks. These beaches are backed by dunes and woodlands, offering a secluded and peaceful retreat. The estate’s dramatic cliffs provide vantage points for spotting marine life like bottlenose dolphins and basking sharks, while seabirds including kittiwakes and red-billed choughs add to the vibrant coastal ecosystem. The historic Stackpole Quay, a small masonry harbour, offers a picturesque setting with a cosy tea-room overlooking the water.

Engaging Visitor Experiences and Facilities

The National Trust Stackpole Centre, housed in converted 19th-century farm buildings, serves as a hub for visitors, offering self-catering accommodation for groups, families, and special events such as weddings. It provides easy access to over 30 kilometers of footpaths that weave through the estate’s varied terrain, connecting visitors to the Pembrokeshire Coast Path and key highlights like the lily-carpeted Bosherston Ponds. The estate also features a tranquil six-acre walled garden managed by a local charity, perfect for relaxation after exploring.

Wildlife and Conservation Efforts

Stackpole Estate is internationally important for its biodiversity and conservation value. The lakes and woodlands support diverse species, from dragonflies and water birds to elusive Eurasian otters. Conservation projects focus on restoring ancient woodlands and maintaining habitats critical to the survival of protected species. Visitors can enjoy wildlife walks along the coast and through the estate’s nature reserves, immersing themselves in the peaceful ambience and natural rhythms of this unique environment.

Historic and Cultural Significance

The estate’s landscape is a tapestry of history, from Bronze Age settlements to the legacy of the Cawdor family who shaped much of the estate’s 18th and 19th-century character. Although the mansion no longer stands, the carefully designed gardens and parkland remain a Grade I listed historic landscape, reflecting centuries of horticultural and architectural heritage. Interpretive trails such as the Secrets of Stackpole Court walk guide visitors through this layered history, revealing stories of the land and its people.

Accessibility and Visitor Amenities

Stackpole Estate is open year-round from dawn to dusk, with pay-and-display parking available at key points including Stackpole Quay and Broad Haven South. Facilities include restrooms, a visitor reception with information and light refreshments, picnic areas, and seating spots throughout the estate. While some roads are narrow and restrict large vehicles, the estate offers mobility vehicle routes and accessible paths to ensure a welcoming experience for all visitors. The estate’s location within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park makes it a prime destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquility by the sea.