Stackpole is an area within the Pembrokeshire National Park and is known for its beautiful beaches. Stackpole is a small village located close to the Stackpole Estate. Here we will explore the Stackpole area as a whole.
What makes Stackpole so special is its diversity; there is heathland, woodland, farmland, plus a mixture of rugged and gentle coastline. There are peaceful wooded valleys and wildlife to enjoy. The Stackpole area includes eight miles of coastline with sand dunes, dramatic and soft cliffs and tiny coves and inlets. The jewel in the crown though has to be the two beaches:
- Barafundle Bay
- Broadhaven South
Barafundle Bay is a stunning sandy beach that used to be the private beach of the Stackpole Mansion that is often described as easily mistaken for a secluded Greek bay. The beach is now under the stewardship of the National Trust and is available to anyone. Barafundle Bay has featured as a 12 top beach location in at least one listicle. It is the closest beach to the village of Stackpole.
Broadhaven South is a lovely sandy beach, prized for the water quality and plenty of soft sand. It’s popular with swimmers and surfers. The location offers a mixture of long sandy beach, rugged rocks out to sea, known as church rock and the dramatic cliffs.
Stackpole Quay is near to Broadhaven South and is a tiny harbour used by local fishermen and small pleasure crafts.
Stackpole village is just over 4 miles south of the town of Pembroke and is rurally located within farmland and woodland. The Stackpole Estate moved it to this location from the original medieval location in 1735. The architecture includes some lovely pretty Welsh cottages as well as more contemporary dwellings. The pub is a pretty little building next to the village green, and the post office is also within the pub. Stackpole is a charming small village with wide grass verges.
The Stackpole area is listed as a designed landscape and also as an internationally important nature reserve. Stackpole Court was once a grand mansion; however, it was demolished before the National Trust took over ownership. The Court has left its trace though with exotic plants in the parkland and many footpaths starting there.