Best attractions and places to see around Manorbier, a coastal village in Pembrokeshire, Wales, offers a combination of historical sites and natural landscapes. Situated within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, the area features a scenic coastline with sandy coves and cliff paths. Visitors can explore medieval landmarks and enjoy the diverse natural environment. The region provides opportunities for coastal walks and discovering local heritage.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
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Great variety. The lily ponds, lovely beaches, a coffee/ food stop and lots of cliff top walking.
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Absolute “insider tip”. One of the most beautiful beaches in the region if not the whole of the UK
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This is one of Pembrokeshire's finest beaches. He is often referred to as the "Jewel in the Crown". The beach is lined with dunes and trees. It is owned and managed by the National Trust. Barafundle is only accessible via the coastal path.
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The Lily Ponds, a group of freshwater lakes, are part of a large wildlife sanctuary in the area and are home to a variety of wildlife including otters, wildfowl and dragonflies. About history: The Lily Ponds were the brainchild of one of Pembrokeshire's most important noble families, the Cawdors, who owned thousands of acres of parkland and farmland in South Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and Nairnshire (Scotland). In Castlemartin Corse, the Cawdors converted several acres of wet barrens, described as "perfect bog", into good, productive farmland. They also devoted their attention to enhancing their estate in the form of ambitious landscaping, damming the valley of two rivers into ornamental lakes and building a magnificent new mansion on a site overlooking the water. They also built the eight-arched stone bridge over one of the lakes and laid out the lily pond, where a footpath leads down to Broad Haven South Beach and a wooden bridge crosses the pond for a close-up view of the beautiful blooms.
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It takes a lot of luck to spot otters at the right moment...
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Stackpole Quay is a small harbor nestled into the cliffs and is a popular meeting place for kayakers heading to the caves and cliffs. At low tide, a rocky beach appears. Be sure to check the tides beforehand to make sure there's enough beach and you're not cut off by the incoming tide!
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Manorbier is rich in history. You can visit the impressive Norman Manorbier Castle, dating back to the late 11th century and known as the birthplace of Gerald of Wales. Other notable sites include the medieval St. James' Church, the ancient Neolithic burial chamber known as King's Quoit, a 13th-century Dovecote, and a well-restored Lime Kiln.
Yes, several attractions are great for families. The Bosherston Lily Ponds offer easy nature walks and opportunities to spot abundant birdlife and aquatic animals. The Eight-Arch Bridge, Stackpole, is another family-friendly historical site where you might even spot otters. Manorbier Castle also often hosts events like medieval reenactments that can be engaging for all ages.
Manorbier boasts stunning coastal scenery. Barafundle Bay is a superb sandy cove, often voted one of Britain's best beaches, accessible only on foot. Manorbier Beach itself is popular for bathing and surfing. Further east, you can discover Skrinkle Haven and Church Doors Cove, known for its distinctive rock archway. To the west, Swanlake Bay offers a remote and unspoiled experience.
The area around Manorbier is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, accessible from Manorbier Beach, offering breathtaking views. For specific routes, explore the easy hikes around Manorbier. Cycling is also popular, with options for road cycling routes and MTB trails available.
For a quieter experience, consider visiting Swanlake Bay, a remote and unspoiled bay west of Manorbier that is a favorite among locals. The ancient King's Quoit Neolithic burial chamber and the 13th-century Dovecote also offer unique historical insights away from the main crowds.
The Bosherston Lily Ponds are renowned for their exquisite summer displays of waterlilies and abundant birdlife. This artificial lake system is a fantastic spot for nature walks, birdwatching, and observing aquatic animals like otters and dragonflies. A footpath from the ponds leads directly to Broad Haven South Beach.
Manorbier is a popular holiday destination, especially during the warmer months. Summer is ideal for enjoying the beaches, water activities, and seeing the waterlilies in full bloom at the Bosherston Lily Ponds. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is enjoyable in spring, summer, and autumn for walking, offering varied scenery and wildlife.
The village of Manorbier itself offers basic amenities including a pub, tea rooms, a restaurant, and a local shop. Near Stackpole Quay, there is a small kiosk offering tea and coffee. However, isolated spots like Barafundle Bay have no facilities, so it's advisable to plan accordingly.
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is a national trail offering breathtaking views along the coastline. It is easily accessible from Manorbier Beach. You can head west towards Swanlake Bay and Freshwater East, or east towards Lydstep, Penally, and views of Caldey Island, making it ideal for ramblers and hikers.
The Eight-Arch Bridge, Stackpole, is a historical Grade II-listed limestone masonry bridge built in 1797. It offers beautiful views of the surrounding lakes and is a known spot for observing otters. It's part of the Stackpole Estate and is cared for by the National Trust.
Manorbier Castle is a significant Norman castle dating back to the late 11th century. It's famous as the birthplace of Gerald of Wales, a prominent 12th-century scholar. Visitors can explore its well-preserved medieval gatehouse, round tower, gardens, and curtain walls. The castle has also served as a filming location and often hosts historical events.


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