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Bosheston Lily Ponds

Bosheston Lily Ponds by Jon Scott

Last updated: 15 March 2011

Located on the south-eastern side of the Castlemartin Peninsula, Bosherston has become famous for its lily ponds.

They were formed by the Cawdor Estate between 1780 and 1860 by blocking three narrow limestone valleys. The area is now protected as a nature reserve.

As well as being noted for its , waterfowl, herons and water lilies; the ponds have plenty of coarse fish such as pike, roach, perch, tench and eels.

Otters can also be spotted at the rear of the ponds - on the beach at Broadhaven South if you get up early enough, so keep your eyes peeled.

It's also here that eels come in from the sea on their way to reach their spawning grounds in the lily ponds.

Water lilies at Bosheston by Ciara Owens
Water lilies at Bosheston by Ciara Owens

During the spring and early summer, the ponds are transformed as colourful water lilies fill the void. There are various bridges taking you across the water for a close up view of the lilies and dragonflies.

To the north towards Stackpole village lies the stone, 'eight arch bridge' - well worth a visit and you'll often see enormous pike lying in wait for roach underneath the bridge.

On your way there you'll often encounter friendly and blue tits which will feed from your hand if you have food.

Fishing is by permit only which are available from the local café in Bosherston but well worth it if you enjoy wrestling with big pike.

Nearby is the secluded Barafundle Bay with its wide expanse of sand and few people and the Quay is a great spot to stop for a cream team or a swim if the tide is in.


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