Church Rock

Church Rock in Bosherston, Pembrokeshire is a famous natural rock, battered by the seas over many years that resembles the shape of a Church. Situated just out at sea, approximately 150 yards from the shore at Broad Haven South beach. Located within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and owned by the National Trust.

Access to the beach to get a proper view of Church Rock is only on foot, via the Pembrokeshire Coast Path or via a magical walk through Bosherston Lilly Ponds. It’s approximately one mile walk from the car park, please see exact postcode and location details below. There are two paths along the lilly ponds, with one taking slightly longer, across a few stone wall bridges which meander and hug the edge of the ponds. Crossing over another little bridge takes you onto heavenly sand with dunes on your right shoulder. Continuing ahead you start to get a glimpse of Church Rock as the beach opens up in front of you and the golden sands invite you to take a deep breath to taken in and absorb all this natural beauty. For a change of scenery we recommend taking the shorter route back to the car park which follows the edge of the ponds with some quick changes in levels. This route avoids the bridges but you still get great views of the Ponds. The best time to visit Bosherston Lilly Ponds is in June when the lillies are in full bloom. We recommend taking sun protection as this is a very sheltered walk with cliffs sheltering you from the winds on either side. Dogs are allowed and have to stay on leads when on the narrow paths near the ponds.

Bosherston Lilly Ponds

Bosherston Lilly Ponds is a beautiful walk in its own right so to have the added bonus of a wonderful beach and view of Church Rock adds to the adventure. A variety of wild life can be seen around the ponds, ranging from herons, kingfishers, swans aswell as dragonflies. An alternative access method is on foot via the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. To the East is an award winning beach called Barafundle Bay. The golden sands mirror that of Broad Haven South amd with access only available on foot, it does not attract the crowds like some of the more well known tourist attractions like Tenby and Saundersfoot. On the West side is another host of jaw dropping sights, such as Saint Govans Chapel and further around the coast is the famous Stack Rocks and Green Bridge of Wales. This part of Pembrokeshire is a mecca for walkers and dog walkers with plenty of space, less people and less traffic. If you’re looking for food and refreshments after your walk Stacpole Inn is a very popular pub serving great food and more recently providing accommodation aswell. Jacks at the Longhouse, Freshwater East do a great breakfast to fuel you up for your walking adventure.

Wildflowers in Pembrokeshire

Along this stretch of the coastline there is an abundance of wildflowers that create an array of colours and aromas. In April the gorse is vibrant and the yellow colours are so strong. This makes for a lovely contrast against the clear blue skies and crystal clear water. The morning light makes for a beautiful sunrise and the glow from golden hour is very special. Depending on the time of year, Sea Thrift and Red Campian can also be seen growig on mass alond the coastpath.