Explore Pembrokeshire
Your complete guide to the Bosherston Lily Ponds from South View Glamping near Pembroke — white water lilies in June, Broad Haven South beach and extraordinary Pembrokeshire wildlife.
Drive from South View
From South View Glamping
Best for lily bloom
Managed reserve
Open all year
Overview
The Bosherston Lily Ponds are one of Pembrokeshire’s most quietly beautiful destinations — a network of flooded limestone valleys managed by the National Trust as a nature reserve, connected by wooden footbridges and walking paths that wind through woodland and open grassland to emerge at one of the most spectacular beaches on the south Pembrokeshire coast.
Just 20 minutes by car from South View Glamping near Pembroke, the ponds are at their most extraordinary in June when white water lilies cover the surface in their thousands, creating a scene of extraordinary natural beauty. At any other time of year the reserve is peaceful, wildlife-rich and well worth visiting for the walk alone.
The path through the nature reserve leads to Broad Haven South beach, a stunning sandy cove tucked between limestone headlands that is one of the most beautiful and least crowded beaches in Pembrokeshire. The combination of the lily ponds walk and the beach at the end makes this one of the finest half-day excursions available to guests staying near Pembroke.
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Spectacular lily display each June
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Stunning beach at the end of the path
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Otters, kingfishers, herons and dragonflies
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Well-maintained paths through the nature reserve
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Part of the Stackpole Estate nature reserve
What to Do
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The main route from Bosherston village through the lily ponds to Broad Haven South beach takes around 30 to 45 minutes each way on well-maintained paths. The route crosses the ponds on wooden footbridges and passes through woodland and open grassland with views over the water throughout.
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The highlight of the Bosherston year is June when the white water lilies reach full bloom. The surface of the three connected ponds turns white and the scene is genuinely extraordinary — one of the most beautiful natural spectacles in all of Wales. Try to visit on a clear day for the best reflections.
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The walk through the nature reserve ends at Broad Haven South, a beautiful sheltered sandy beach popular with swimmers, families and kayakers. The beach is reached via a short descent through the dunes and offers swimming in clear water with the limestone headlands of the Stackpole Estate on either side.
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The Bosherston nature reserve is home to an extraordinary variety of wildlife. Otters are occasionally spotted in the early morning, kingfishers flash along the water's edge, herons fish patiently in the shallows and in summer the ponds are alive with dragonflies and damselflies in many species.
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From Broad Haven South, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path continues north to Barafundle Bay — another 30 to 40 minutes of spectacular cliff-top walking. Combining the lily ponds walk, Broad Haven South beach and Barafundle Bay makes for a full and exceptional day in one of the finest areas of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
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A short drive from Bosherston, St Govan's Chapel is a tiny 13th century chapel wedged into a cleft in the cliffs above the sea. One of the most atmospheric and remarkable small buildings in all of Wales, it can be reached via steps from the road above and is free to visit.
Visitor Tips
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If you can, time your visit for June when the lilies are in full bloom. The display lasts for most of the month and peaks around mid-June in a typical year.
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The paths through the reserve can be muddy after rain. Wear comfortable walking shoes or wellies rather than sandals or flip flops.
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Dogs on leads are welcome throughout the reserve and on Broad Haven South beach. A great option for guests staying at South View Glamping with dogs.
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Park in the National Trust car park in Bosherston village and walk through the reserve. The path to Broad Haven South starts from the village and is well signed throughout.
Distance
Minutes by car
Miles from South View
Best month for lilies
The Bosherston Lily Ponds are approximately 20 minutes by car from South View Glamping near Pembroke. They are around 12 miles away through the south Pembrokeshire countryside.
June is the best time when the white water lilies are in full bloom. The ponds are beautiful at any time of year but June is the peak time for the lily display.
Yes, Broad Haven South is a beautiful sandy beach at the end of the lily ponds path that is popular for swimming. The beach is sheltered with generally excellent water quality. No lifeguard service.
The walk from Bosherston village to Broad Haven South through the reserve takes around 30 to 45 minutes each way on well-maintained paths. Easy and suitable for most visitors with some gentle ascent.
Yes, dogs on leads are welcome at the Bosherston Lily Ponds, on the paths through the nature reserve and on Broad Haven South beach throughout the year.
Explore More of Pembrokeshire
Staying at South View Glamping near Pembroke puts you within easy reach of the very best of the Pembrokeshire coast. Combine your visit to the Bosherston Lily Ponds with any of these stunning nearby destinations.
Pembrokeshire’s most beloved coastal town with award-winning beaches, harbour and boat trips to Caldey Island.
One of the most beautiful beaches in Britain. Secluded National Trust cove accessible only on foot.
Charming harbour village with Blue Flag beach, independent restaurants and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
One of the finest medieval castles in Wales and birthplace of Henry VII. Just 6 minutes from South View.
One of the most dramatic beaches on the Pembrokeshire coast with powerful surf and vast dunes.
Britain’s smallest city and home to a magnificent 12th century cathedral in west Pembrokeshire.
One of the best wildlife experiences in Britain, famous for its puffin colony visible April to July.
A dramatic two-mile stretch of sand on St Brides Bay, popular with surfers and families.
The only coastal national park in Wales with over 600 miles of footpaths and stunning scenery.
Your Base in Pembrokeshire
South View Glamping offers two private glamping stays near Pembroke, set on a quiet family-run smallholding on the edge of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. The perfect base for exploring the Bosherston Lily Ponds and the wider Pembrokeshire coast.
A cosy adults-only shepherd’s hut with private hot tub, fire pit and peaceful countryside views near Pembroke. Designed for couples seeking a romantic rural escape with easy access to the Bosherston Lily Ponds and the Pembrokeshire coast.
A private countryside cabin with electric hot tub, outdoor kitchen, fire pit and stunning views. Ideal for families or friends exploring the Bosherston Lily Ponds and the Pembrokeshire coast from a peaceful rural base.
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