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Aerial view of the town of Beaumaris from the sea

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Llanfairpwllgwyngyll station

The Isle of Anglesey – Ynys Môn in Welsh – is deeper than you may think. By which we mean that the deeper you look, the more you will find.

We’re a small island with a big, boundless personality. A proper island too, not an offshoot of Wales, with our own strong identity, atmosphere, culture and community spirit.

There are endless experiences here, far more than our size suggests. That’s what this website is all about. It’s been designed to take you on a journey (actually, around 50 journeys in the form of trails and tours) throughout the island.

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BActive is an adventure activities provider on Ynys Môn, Anglesey, North Wales. We specialise in sea kayaking, coasteering, guided walks and group experiences.

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Discover Anglesey for yourself with its outstanding natural beauty, quality accommodation, delicious dining, fun filled attractions and adventures - you are guaranteed a warm welcome.

There is such a lot to discover on Anglesey with its rich heritage and culture, Jurassic landscapes and vast array of flora and fauna, with much of the coastline declared an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Its sense of place in the Welsh Culture is clear to see with the Welsh language being widely used on the Island, local foods, crafts and tales of myths and legends, with the most famous being St Dwynwen the Welsh Patron Saint of Love.

Year round events take place on the island such as The Ring Of Fire ultra marathon, Menai Seafood Festival, Anglesey County show, Anglesey Artists Open Studios and numerous other events. See our What's On Calendar for more. These have focused a spotlight on the island's appeal and infrastructure to host these diverse events.

Television and films have long been shot on the Island. Safe House, the ITV drama, was filmed at Trearddur Bay, Doolittle at Menai Bridge and most recently ITV's I'm A Celebrity and HBO's House of Dragons series. Artists and photographers are drawn to Anglesey by the dramatic coastline, stunning scenery and iconic landmarks providing much inspiration for their work. Adventurers and outdoor pursuit enthusiasts are well catered for with the miles of walking trails, cycling routes, cliff faces for climbing and the sea for all things water based. Foodies will be delighted by the abundance of eateries from Michelin starred restaurants, family dining to tea rooms.

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25 Best Things To Do on Anglesey Island, Wales

Anglesey wales things to do

Table of Contents

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When I started planning my Wales trip, Anglesey was one of the places I was most excited to explore. From castles to beaches galore, I’ll share what to do on Anglesey Island and everything you need to know for a memorable visit.

ANGLESEY ESSENTIALS Copy of Lonely Planet Wales Accommodation: Booking.com Public transport: Transport for Wales Car hire: Rentalcars.com

anglesey wales

Where is Anglesey?

Anglesey is an island off Wales’ northwest coast (in Welsh, Ynys Môn ). The nearest large city is Bangor and it’s also easily accessible from Conwy and Llandudno . Pinned are some of the best things to see in Anglesey. Keep reading for more details.

tourist information on anglesey

How long to spend on Anglesey

Well, how much of it do you want to see? Sure, you could tick off a few of the things to do on Anglesey during a half-day trip. But even with a full day, you’re looking at a handful of attractions. To see all the places in this guide, I’d recommend at least 3 days. You have two options : stay overnight on Anglesey, or stay on the Welsh mainland and drive over the bridge during a day trip(s). We were staying just a 5-minute drive from the Menai Bridge so it was easy to pop over and explore.

Where to stay on Anglesey, Wales

If you choose to stay overnight, there are plenty of accommodation options whether you would prefer to be based in a town or somewhere more rural. Glamping – for an affordable but comfy option, check out Coastal Pods on Holy Island, Anglesey. These pods have tea & coffee facilities and BBQ access. Book from £60 per night . B&B – by Red Wharf Bay Beach, Lon y Traeth Bed & Breakfast is near to most places on Anglesey. With friendly hosts, beautiful rooms and hearty Welsh breakfasts, it’s a lovely home from home. Book from £90 a night . Hotel  – near Amlwch in North Anglesey, Trecastell Hote l is one of the highest-rated hotels on the island. With a restaurant, bar and sea views, it’s perfectly placed for beaches and watersports in Cemaes. Book from £90 a night . Apartment – for total privacy and self-catering convenience, stay at Y Gorsaf in Llanfairpwllgwyngyll. The stylish apartment has two bedrooms, a dining room and a fully equipped kitchen. Book from £100 a night .

Breakwater country park

How to get to Anglesey

By car: Take the North Wales Expressway or the Menai Bridge. By train: There are several stations on Anglesey most located in the south and east, however you can travel by train all the way to Holyhead, the furthest point from the mainland on separate Holy Island . Trains from London change in Crewe, whereas trains from Manchester and Liverpool change in Chester. By bus: It’s easy to catch the bus from Bangor to Anglesey. The X5 service runs all the way to Holyhead, making stops along the way.

How to get around Holy Island

Although it’s easy to reach Anglesey by public transport, the best way to get between the various Anglesey attractions is by car. Use Rentalcars.com to book a car and collect it from a hub like Holyhead or Bangor.

Read next: how to plan the ultimate Wales road trip

What to do in Anglesey

There are endless tourist attractions on Anglesey – both natural and manmade – so, unless you have a week to spend exploring, you’ll want to do your research in advance. You may wish to pick a handful of the best activities on Anglesey and tick them off them throughout the day. Another option is to focus on one side/coast of the island and explore it in depth. Notes:

  • All these attractions are listed on the map above so use it to plan your trip. Remember it’s a large island so factor in journey times between stops.
  • I’ve listed these attractions loosely in order of south to north. Keep reading for my Anglesey day trip itinerary.

These are a handful of the best places to visit in Anglesey, Wales…

1. Menai Suspension Bridge Viewpoint

Menai Suspension Bridge Viewpoint what to do anglesey

Before the building of the Expressway, Menai Bridge was the only way to access Anglesey by road. Prior to Menai, farmers used to have to make their sheep swim the distance! Menai was also the first and most impressive suspension bridge of its kind: an architectural masterpiece that wowed the people of the 1800s. Menai Suspension Bridge Viewpoint is the best place to admire not just the bridge but the sweeping scenery of the Menai Straits. Enter LL61 5YH into your satnav and pull into the roadside parking area to snap photos before moving on.

2. Church Island

One of the most worthwhile things to do on Anglesey is discover the many small islands surrounding it. One of these is Church Island, a tiny speck of land near Menai Bridge. Church Island measures 2 acres in size and has a small church and a memorial to soldiers lost to WWI and WWII. The only way to reach it is by foot. Stroll along the slim causeway admiring views of the Menai Straits. There’s pay and display parking on Mona Road (LL59 5EA) or you can park in Waitrose car park for free (although I don’t think they like you doing this).

3. Llanddwyn Bay

 Llanddwyn Bay

Of all the beaches on Anglesey, this is easily my favourite. The sandy coastline stretches for miles and the sea is shallow with gentle waves. During my September visit, the water was surprisingly warm. Perfect for paddling! Llanddwyn Bay is buffered by forest and dunes which not only add to the striking scenery but provide a sense of privacy. You feel a million miles from civilisation, yet you’re conveniently nearby when you want to arrive or leave. There’s a large parking area with toilets and a few refreshment stands. The Bay is a popular place for kitesurfing and a convenient launching point for walks in Newborough Forest.

Llanddwyn Bay Anglesey activities

Llanddwyn means ‘Church of St. Dwynwen’ referring to the patron saint of lovers. In Dwynwen’s honour, cards and presents are given on the 25th of January. A Welsh version of Valentine’s Day, if you will! Getting to Llanddwyn Bay: It can be found in the southeast corner of Anglesey, a 30-minute drive from Menai Bridge. Enter LL61 6SG into your satnav. If you choose to journey around Anglesey in a clockwise direction, it would make a lovely first stop. Spend the morning relaxing on the beach, taking a dip in the sea and hiking to…

4. Llanddwyn Island (Ynys Llanddwyn)

Ynys Llanddwyn island

This tiny ‘island’ is separated from Anglesey during high tides but, for the most part, it’s easy to reach Llanddwyn Island from Llanddwyn Bay. Simply turn right when arriving on the beach and walk to the end. You can’t fail to miss this craggy island with a lighthouse perched on its tip. Here, you’ll find the remains of Llanddwyn Chapel, a pilgrimage site relating to Dwynwen, patron saint of love. It’s thought she lived out her days on this island after escaping an unhappy marriage. The chapel dates back to Tudor times when the island became a pilgrimage site for young lovers, particularly those wanting to carry out a test involving handkerchiefs and eels to see if their partner was a match. Sounds legit 😉 Tip – Read the information board at the start of the walk and bring some decent footwear. You don’t need hiking boots but something other than flip-flops is recommended. I watched some people attempt it with bare feet and have to turn back.

5. Walk Anglesey Coastal Path

wales coastal path sign

As you may know, Wales is the only country in the world with a complete coastal path. Walking its entirety would take months but you could try to tackle the Anglesey part – or at least a section of it. The Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path runs for 130 miles through countryside designated an Area of Natural Beauty. If you begin at its official starting point of St Cybi’s Church on Holy Island, it will take 12 days in total. The route is broken down into 12 sections (one per day) so an easier option is to follow one section during a day hike. Decide which and download the routes on the Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path website .

6. Find Wales’ longest place name

Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch

Undeniably one of the most sought-out attractions in Anglesey, this town near Menai Bridge has the second-longest name in the world! With 58 letters, it’s only trumped by the longest place name in New Zealand with 85 letters. The full name of this Welsh town is: Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogery chwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch! It’s often shortened to Llanfairpwll. Which I still don’t have a clue how to pronounce, to be honest 😉 Although the train station in the town is functional, the platform has become somewhat of an Anglesey tourist attraction. As you can see from the photos, I took more than one opportunity to pose with the sign! There are THREE signs: one at the front of the station and one on either platform. You don’t need a ticket to walk on either platform, only to board a train. Address: LL61 5UJ. Make sure to follow directions to the train station, not the town itself.

Wales longest place name

7. Plas Newydd

National Trust members can give their passes a run for their money at Plas Newydd , a country house with vast grounds including manicured gardens and woodlands boasting a view of Snowdonia. Take a tour of the house and admire famous yet unfinished paintings by Rex Whistler and wander in 129 acres of woodland. In the grounds, you’ll find everything from wildflower meadows to an Arboretum and flower gardens from around the world. The 2024 ticket price for non-National Trust members is £8.30 for adults and £4.20 for children. Address: Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, LL61 6DQ.

8. Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens

Although it’s hardly a hidden gem these days, Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens is one of the best places in Anglesey to escape the crowds and relax in peaceful surroundings. Get lost in the set of three large gardens featuring elaborate topiary, a wood and a waterfall. Afterwards, there’s a lovely cafe with coffee and cakes. Entry is £8 for adults and £2 for children. If you’re really craving solitude (and have the budget for it), there are a collection of self-catering cottages in the gardens where you can stay overnight. Address: LL59 5NH. Note – Plas Cadnant is temporarily closed in 2024; I will update this when it reopens.

9. Beaumaris Castle

Beaumaris Castle things to do Anglesey wales

Majestic Beaumaris Castle is one of the most famous attractions in Anglesey. Its name derives from beau mareys , meaning ‘beautiful marsh’ referring to the flat land it’s built on. Like many Welsh castles, Beaumaris was built as part of Edward I’s mission to conquer Wales. Although it looks remarkable by my standards, it was intended to be even grander, earning it the title ‘the greatest castle never built’. A lack of funds and conflict elsewhere meant building work was halted and Edward I’s complete vision never came to life. However, it’s still managed to bag a slot on the World Heritage Site list. Ticket price: Adult tickets cost £8.70, child tickets cost £6.10 and family tickets cost £28.20. Address: LL58 8AP.

Beaumaris castle

10. Beaumaris Pier

If visiting Beaumaris Castle, don’t overlook Beaumaris town. As well as Beaumaris Gaol , there are some quaint shops and cafes worth a visit but the highlight has to be Beaumaris Pier. Strolling the Pier, ice cream in hand, is a must for a trip to Anglesey. Kids will love the opportunity to go crabbing and wildlife watchers can sign up for…

11. Boat trips to Puffin Island

If seeing wild puffins sounds like a dream come true, this is one of the best things to do in Anglesey, Wales. Boat trips depart Beaumaris Pier and take the short journey to Puffin Island . Staying on-board, you’ll circle the island while your guide identifies wildlife and offers a commentary. As well as puffins, you may also spot razorbills, guillemots and kittiwakes. Cruises lasting 80 minutes start from £18.95. Note – puffin breeding season is April to July and you’re unlikely to see puffins outside of this season. During our September visit, I asked a vendor at Beaumaris Pier what we would likely see and he answered honestly ‘not a lot’. I was grateful for his honesty as he could have easily tried to sell us his tickets… Beaumaris Pier address : LL58 8BS.

12. Aberlleiniog ruined castle

 Aberlleiniog castle

For a total contrast to Beaumaris, take a free hike to Aberlleiniog, a small but charming ruined castle less than 10 minutes away near Llangoed village. Although it’s not in the best nick, it was built in 1080 so it’s holding up pretty well. This lesser-known attraction is an optimum spot to escape the crowds. Park at Traeth Lleiniog where there’s a beach and picnic area. Turn left out of the parking area and start the walk to the castle along the road. You’ll soon come to a gate leading to an off-road path venturing into the woodland. It’s an easy walk of 10 minutes to the ruins.

13. Penmon Point

Penmon Point

If you’ve previously stopped at Aberlleiniog Castle, you’re a 10-minute drive from another of the best places to see in Anglesey, Penmon Point . This is the most easterly point of Anglesey, looking outwards towards Puffin Island. As well as beautiful coastal views, Penmon has an attractive (although stony) beach and a lighthouse. There’s a large parking area, toilets and a cafe so you may wish to stop here for lunch.

penman lighthouse wales

14. Lunch or coffee at the The Pilot House Cafe

If you’ve visited Llanfairpwll and Beaumaris during the morning, you’ll likely reach Penmon Point by early afternoon. We stopped for foodie fuel at the Pilot House Cafe which has a large garden area with coastal views. They serve all-day breakfasts, burgers, tea, coffee, cakes, ice cream and drinks including wine, ciders and Welsh beers and ales. Try the bara brith, traditional Welsh bread flavoured with tea.

15. Anglesey Farmers Market

If your visit coincides with the third Saturday of the month, one of the best things to do in Anglesey is head to Prince’s Pierl in Menai Bridge town and eat your heart out! Anglesey Farmers Market is the largest of its kind in Anglesey, selling not just locally sourced meat, vegetables and crab, but also goodies you can eat there and then like coffee, cakes and ice cream. Note – the market is currently on pause but I’ll update this when it gets up and running again (hopefully soon).

16. Benllech

Benllech beach anglesey island attractions

Benllech is a large town on the east coast of Anglesey. Although it has cafes and amenities, you’ll want to head straight for the beach if you’re searching for tourist attractions in Anglesey. Benllech Beach is often voted one of the best beaches in North Wales thanks to its sweeping sands ideal for sunbathing and making sandcastles. The gentle waves are perfect for paddling and swimming.

Benllech low tide

Address: LL74 8QE. Park at Lower Wendon Pay & Display Car Park or Upper Wendon Pay & Display (note that it’s a steep walk from the beach). Benllech Beach is accessible for both prams and wheelchairs.

17. Red Wharf Bay

If it’s Anglesey beaches you’re looking for, plan a stop at Red Wharf Bay. Just a 15-minute drive south of Benllech, this quaint town and bay are worth a stop for nature lovers. The bay is a designated nature reserve where you may be lucky enough to spot sandpipers, shelduck, curlew and more. Afterwards, grab a pint or bite to eat at one of the highly-rated restaurants in Red Wharf Bay: the Boathouse, Ship Inn or the Tavern on the Bay.

18. The Copper Kingdom

Once the location of the world’s largest copper mine, this visually striking area remains one of the key tourist attractions on Anglesey Island. Simply driving around North Wales, you’ll notice the change in scenery as you pass Parys Mountain. Its history dates back 4,000 years but really ramped up in the 1700s when it became integral to the Industrial Revolution, bringing jobs and prosperity to Anglesey. One of the top places to go in Anglesey is The Copper Kingdom Centre in Amlwch Port (near Cemaes in North Anglesey). This otherwise sleepy town had its own version of the American gold rush: the ‘copper rush’, which you can learn about at the centre. Address: LL68 9DB.

19. Cemaes Bay

cemaes bay

If you’re exploring the north coast of Anglesey, don’t miss this gem. Cemaes is a village with a charming bay and sandy beach. The Bay is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty partly owned by the National Trust, but free to visit. It’s a hotspot for Anglesey activities including windsurfing, kayaking, paddle boarding and sailing. You can book activities in advance from £10 an hour. For a leisurely walk, take the track from Cemaes to the Wygyr Valley. For something more challenging, take one of the hardest but most worthwhile sections of the Anglesey Coastal Path: the Cemaes to Amlwch hike via Porth Wen Brickworks . Cemaes Bay Address: LL67 0EW. It’s the opposite side of the island from Menai Bridge so it takes around 40 minutes to drive the distance.

20-25. Holy Island, Anglesey

Holy Island things to do anglesey island wales

A final thing to do in Anglesey is continue your road trip to Holy Island, connected via the North Wales Expressway and Four Mile Bridge. However, I would recommend setting aside a separate day for this. Holy Island may be easy to reach from Anglesey but there’s so much to see and do that you’d regret rushing it. Things to do on Holy Island include:

  • Hiking in Breakwater Country Park. If you’re feeling energetic, make it to the top of Holyhead Mountain
  • Visiting the beaches – Trearddur Bay and Porth Dafarch are two of the best
  • Walk the bridge to South Stack Lighthouse
  • Learn at Holyhead Maritime Museum
  • Watch birds from Elin’s Tower (managed by the RSPB)
  • Spot stone circles and ancient burial chambers.

Read next: A complete guide to Holy Island, Anglesey

Anglesey day trip itinerary

South-east itinerary: 10am: cross either of the bridges to Anglesey and stop to take photos at Menai Suspension Bridge Viewpoint. 10.30am: arrive at Llanfairpwll to take photos of the longest place name in Wales. 11.30am: arrive at Beaumaris. Tour the Castle and wander the pier. Add extra time here to take a Puffin Island boat trip. 2pm: Visit Penmon Point, admire the lighthouse and stop for lunch or tea and cake. 3.30pm: Relax at Benllech Beach, one of the most beautiful in North Wales. West & north itinerary: 10am: Drive to Llanddwyn Bay and hike to Llanddwyn Island. 2pm: Head north to Cemaes Bay, stop for lunch, take a hike or try some watersports. 4pm: Tour the Copper Canyon and learn about this fascinating piece of history.

Things to do near Anglesey

There’s so much to see and do in North Wales. Check out my other blogs to research the best of the region.

  • What to see & do in Conwy, Wales’ best-preserved medieval town
  • Complete guide to Portmeirion, the idyllic Italian village in North Wales
  • Fun things to do in Llandudno, Wales’ Victorian seaside town

Headed down South? Use my Cardiff itinerary and Wales road trip itinerary to guide you.

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what to do anglesey island

WALES QUICK LINKS Guidebooks – LP always get my seal of approval. Use the latest copy of Lonely Planet Wales / L onely Planet Great Britain . Flights (international and domestic):  I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Car hire – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals and campers in the UK (and all around the world). For trains , use Trainine . The search feature allows you to compare prices and see live departures. For buses , I use Busbud . It’s the only site that compares UK coaches and buses. Find London to Manchester journeys for £1!  For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse UK tours and activities on GetYourGuide . For food tours pairing travellers with passionate local chefs and foodies, check out EatWith .  Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and budget tips from my 10+ years on the road!

tourist information on anglesey

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

1 thoughts on “ 25 Best Things To Do on Anglesey Island, Wales ”

tourist information on anglesey

Thank you for your really helpful guide, 25 best things in Anglesey. Clear directions, helpful descriptions, we have had a great day, and have already planned tomorrow’s.

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Brynsiencyn, Anglesey, North Wales

Exploring Anglesey

With standing stones, ancient burial mounds, the remains of a booming copper mine, a World Heritage listed castle and two grand Victorian bridges, history really comes to life on Anglesey. It’s beautiful too, with lovely coastal landscapes.

The Isle of Anglesey, once called the Mother of Wales, has bags of character. Perched in the far northwest of Wales, it has always had a strong sense of otherness. Where else would the locals have been bold enough to cook up Britain’s longest place name, Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch?

There’s an independent spirit at work here, but that’s not to say it’s unwelcoming. The island has a genuine flavour, so much so that everyone, from day-trippers checking out Beaumaris’ buzzing new restaurant scene to a certain Royal couple, is made to feel at home.

Less than 300 square miles in extent, the island is far smaller than most British counties, but there’s plenty of variety in its breezy, open landscapes. Much of Anglesey’s 125-mile coast is an  Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty  (AONB) – a lovely collection of sand dunes, coves and cliffs, with pretty villages and pebble beaches. It’s particularly beautiful in spring, when the clifftops are sprinkled with wildflowers.

Britannia Bridge (in foreground) and Menai Bridge (background)

Ancient burial chambers, grand Victorian bridges

The defiant spirit you’ll find on Anglesey today has its roots in the distant past. The island was considered holy by the Celts; it was a stronghold of their priests, the Druids, who planted it with groves of sacred oaks. This was the last pocket of Wales to resist the Roman invasion in the first century AD. For the advancing army, the island’s rich copper reserves were well worth the fight. Before that, Anglesey had been home to Neolithic and Bronze Age communities, whose burial mounds remain.

Bryn Celli Ddu and Presaddfed Burial Chambers

The 18th and 19th centuries brought huge changes. In the 1760s, an investigation of the old Roman copper mines on Parys Mountain led to the discovery of a huge lode, close to the surface. By the 1780s, Parys Mountain was the largest and most productive copper mine in Europe and its copper was used to make wooden ships copper-bottomed, boosting Britain’s dominance as a seafaring nation. In 1826, Thomas Telford completed the world’s first major suspension bridge, the Menai Bridge, giving the island its first permanent Menai Strait crossing. Then in 1850, Robert Stephenson added a rail bridge, the Britannia Bridge, a final vital link in the direct rail and sea route from London to Dublin.

Wales Coast Path, Anglesey, North Wales

Following the coast

A stroll or a hike along the Anglesey Coast Path is a great way to explore. Some sections double as a cycle route and bridleway. If you have time, you could make your way round the entire, 125-mile circuit, passing wild beaches, flower-dotted heathland and mud flats busy with birds. You’ll need a couple of weeks to do the route justice. Once you’ve made it all the way round, you can claim a badge and a certificate from the  Friends of the Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path .

Alternatively, you could tackle the path in chunks. There are many beautiful stretches to choose from. The island contains three of the six Welsh Heritage Coasts: North Anglesey from Church Bay to Dulas Bay, Holyhead Mountain in the west and Aberffraw Bay in the southwest. It’s also home to some fine architecture: gracing the southeastern shores are  Plas Newydd , an elegant National Trust mansion, and the World Heritage listed  Beaumaris Castle .

Beaumaris Castle

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12 BEST Places To Visit in Anglesey, North Wales

Categories U.K , Wales

From golden stretches of sand, turquoise bays, historical sites and pretty villages there are so many places to visit on the Isle of Anglesey!

North Wales might be small and the far North Western island of Anglesey even smaller but there are so many tourist attractions in Anglesey and things to do for all interests and times of the year.

Places to Visit in Anglesey

Places to visit in Anglesey

In this Wales travel blog , I’m going to give you a full list of where to visit on the Isle of Anglesey to help you plan your trip whether you’re spending just one day in Anglesey , the weekend or a full week, because trust me, you could spend a full week doing all the things to do on Anglesey easily!

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

Best time to visit Anglesey

Much like the rest of Wales, Anglesey is a great place to explore and there are many things to do in Anglesey . For the best of its natural landscapes, the summer months are when you’ll see the island at its best. This is also when boat trips and other excursions tend to run.

As most of Anglesey’s points of interest are in remote parts of the island, parking can be limited. During the summer months, it is best to visit the island early in the morning to ensure parking.

How to get around Anglesey ?

getting around Anglesey, Menai Bridge, Places to visit in Anglesey

Anglesey has two access points: Menai Bridge and Britannia Bridge , both connected to the A55 carriageway that runs along the North Wales coast. The A55 continues on the island and slices through its centre right up to Holyhead. This is also a gateway to the port to travel by ferry onwards towards Ireland.

Despite the large road running along the centre, the best way to get to know Anglesey’s character is by driving a circular route along its outlier coastline. This driving route is very accessible and passes through the most popular spots on the Anglesey island , from quaint villages, to dramatic viewpoints and some of the best natural attractions in Wales!

Public transport is available on the island, with reliable bus routes connecting villages and key tourist attractions in Anglesey , as well as a train line that connects much of the eastern coast.

Best Places To Visit on The Isle of Anglesey

Known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich history, Anglesey offers a treasure trove of attractions waiting to be explored. Here are some of the top things to do in Anglesey, showcasing the best places on Anglesey that are waiting to be explored.

For more posts to help you plan your trip to North Wales whether you live here or are visiting as a tourist see:

  • 30 BEST Places To Visit In North Wales & North Wales Attractions!
  • A Guide to Climbing Tryfan & Hiking Tryfan for Non-Climbers in North Wales!
  • 11 Amazing North Wales Glamping Pods with Hot Tubs!
  • 2 Day North Wales Itinerary Seeing The Best of North Wales!

1. Menai Bridge

Menai Bridge, Places to visit in Anglesey

Menai Bridge is the gateway to the rest of Anglesey’s delights, and there is much to do in this quaint town nestled on the shore of the Menai strait.

Menai Bridge, one of the best places to visit in Anglesey as it offers a range of tourist attractions and things to do in Anglesey as soon as you enter onto the Isle. It’s famous for its watersports, with the thrilling RibRide boat quickly becoming one of the best activities in North Wales for adventurers.

In addition to this thrilling ride, there are many other boat trips that depart from Menai Bridge to explore the surrounding waters. A great hidden gem in Menai Bridge is Church Island, a lovely walk and viewpoint over the streit that loops back round under Menai Bridge to the heart of the town.

Foodies must try the delicious local seafood at the famous Dylan’s restaurant in Menai Bridge after crossing over from the mainland. This is indeed the most popular place to eat in Anglesey.

You’ll also find plenty of charming pubs, cafes, independent shops and even a cocktail bar nearby. There are plenty of great hotels and B&Bs here to break up your journey.

Check out Hotels in Menai Bridge here – Book the one that suits you well

2. Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch

Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch train station, best Places to visit in Anglesey

Famous around the world, the quaint village with the long name is one of the best places to visit in Anglesey and one of the prettiest villages in Wales . Made popular for having the longest place names in the world , often shortened to Llanfairpwll or Llanfair PG for simplicity.

As you approach, the sign proudly displays its full, tongue-twisting name. The iconic railway station is a desired photo spot in North Wales, and don’t miss out on a visit to the James Pringle Weavers shop and cafe. This is a must-see among the tourist attractions in Anglesey, offering a unique experience for visitors exploring the best places on Anglesey .

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If you’re reading this post with future dreams of doing a Wales road trip but don’t have a car, visit Rentalcars to get a quote. They search all of the top rental companies like Budget and Hertz to get you the best price!

Search car rental prices for Wales here!

3. Beaumaris

A beautiful coastal road from Menai Bridge will lead you to the seaside town of Beaumaris. You cannot miss the mighty Beaumaris castle , UNESCO World Heritage Site and a relic of Anglesey’s Celtic history, which is without a doubt one of the most popular places to visit on Anglesey . The town itself exudes a timeless charm with its cobbled streets, vibrant coloured houses, and a scenic waterfront.

Beaumaris Castle, Places to visit in Anglesey

The tranquil Menai Strait, offering views of the Snowdonia mountains , provides a stunning backdrop for leisurely walks or boat excursions, offering a variety of things to do in Anglesey . There are also some great tea rooms in Beaumaris that make for the perfect lunch-stop, followed by a brisk walk on the famous Beaumaris pier!

Book this comfortable minibus tour to experience authentic Anglesey life, explore Beaumaris town and castle from medieval times

4. Penmon and Puffin Island

Penmon is a picturesque corner of Anglesey that is not to be missed as it is one of the best places to visit in Anglesey . Dominated by the striking Penmon Priory, a medieval monastery with its distinctive 13th-century tower, it stands as a testament to the island’s rich religious heritage.

Penmon lighthouse and Puffin Island, Places to visit in Anglesey

The nearby Penmon Point Lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the Menai Strait and the Great Orme headland, making it a popular spot for contemplative walks and photography, providing a range of things to do in Anglesey .

Just off the coast lies Puffin Island , known for its thriving seabird colonies, including, of course, puffins. Boat trips around Puffin Island afford visitors a chance to witness this vibrant wildlife sanctuary up close, adding to the list of best places on Anglesey to explore.

5. Parys Mountain

Parys Mountain, Places to visit in Anglesey

The otherworldly copper and gold landscape of Parys Mountain is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Anglesey and a must-see among tourist attractions in Anglesey.

Known as “ Mynydd Parys ” in Welsh, this site was once the largest copper mine in the world and played a pivotal role in the industrial revolution. Today, it stands as a captivating open-air museum, offering visitors a unique glimpse into its industrial past, making it one of the top things to do in Anglesey.

The landscape is an amazing blend of vivid red, orange, and purple hues. The panoramic views from the summit of Parys Mountain are simply breathtaking, offering a sweeping vista of the Anglesey coastline and the surrounding countryside.

For more help on where to visit in Wales by train? Read my 10 best places to visit in Wales by train post!

tourist information on anglesey

6. South Stack Lighthouse

south stack lighthouse, Places to visit in Anglesey

Perched on the west coast of Holyhead island in Anglesey, South Stack lighthouse is one of the most popular lighthouses in the entirety of the United Kingdom and one of the best places to visit in Anglesey.

South Stack is a significant and working lighthouse with lots of history. Sailing from Ireland, it actually would be the first lighthouse you encounter heading toward Liverpool and the Northwest of England.

Access to the lighthouse and visitor centre is just 10am to 5pm from Saturday through to Wednesday . However, the trails around the lighthouse and car park are generally open consistently but visitors should be cautious of poor weather, as the whole island gets closed, ensuring a safe visit to this iconic landmark among the tourist attractions in Anglesey.

Book this exhilarating tour to South Stack Lighthouse! Walk down the cliffs, cross a sea bridge to the islet with a 200-year-old Lighthouse, and embark on a mountain hike. Perfect for adventure seekers

7. Rhosneigr

Rhosneigr beach, Places to visit in Anglesey

Thinking about what to see in Anglesey ? Anglesey’s west coast beaches have unbeatable views over to the Eryri (Snowdon) mountain skyline on the mainland.

Rhosneigr is perhaps one of the most popular beaches in North Wales , with soft sand and mighty waves that make it a surfers paradise no matter the season! Many visitors choose to come here because of its highly-regarded seaside restaurant , The Oyster Catcher .

This is a great spot to relish in some truly remarkable seafood after a brisk walk amongst Rhosneigr’s epic sand dunes.

8. Newborough and Ynys Llanddwyn

Newborough Beach, Places to visit in Anglesey

Perhaps Anglesey’s most popular place to visit , Ynys Llanddwyn , certainly won’t disappoint. Known as one of Britain’s finest beaches and steeped in Welsh folklore, it’s also famous for its relation to Santes Dwynwen, the Welsh Patron Saint of lovers!

The island’s picturesque lighthouse, still in operation today, adds to the romantic allure and is one of the best places to visit in Anglesey .

If you’re looking for places in North Wales to go paddle boarding , this is one of the great spots! I went last summer and along with its white sand and calm waters it’s great for many water activities and perfect as a child friendly beach in Anglesey .

Nearby Newborough Forest is a nature reserve that is one of the most important red squirrel conservation sites in the UK, offering a range of things to do in Anglesey for those seeking the best places on Anglesey.

9. National Trust – Plas Newydd

Located just after the Menai Bridge is the National Trust site Plas Newydd House & Gardens making it one of the easy places to visit in Anglesey and free places if you are a National Trust member already!

Plas Newydd is home to the Marquess of Anglesey and you can now view the house, an exhibition to learn more and the 40 acres of garden and 129 acres of woodland and parkland.

Plas Newydd is one of the great places in Anglesey for families as there is a fun play area onsite called Dairy Wood. The chance to spot Red Squirrels, a shop and cafe for all your needs.

10. Porthwen Brickworks

Along Anglesey’s northern coast, towards Bull Bay, you’ll find Porthwen Brickworks – a true hidden gem in Wales and one of the best places to visit in Anglesey! Dating back to the late 19th century, it once stood as a bustling hub of brick production, harnessing the rich clay deposits of the area. Today, the remnants of the brickworks form a hauntingly beautiful, weathered landscape, adorned with the skeletal remains of old kilns and buildings.

The Porthwen Brickworks site , a top tourist attraction in Anglesey, has been thoughtfully preserved, allowing visitors to wander through its historic ruins, gaining insight into the lives of the workers who toiled here. Note that it is not clearly sign posted, the walk down is steep and not advisable in poor weather or for less-abled walkers.

11. Cemaes Bay

Cemaes Bay, Places to visit in Anglesey

Nearby Porthwen Brickworks you’ll also find Cemaes Bay , another of the best places on Anglesey, a lovely harbour village with unspoilt beaches and unmissable walkways along the dramatic cliffsides of the Wales Coastal Path , offering a variety of things to do in Anglesey .

12. Anywhere on Wales Coastal Path

Wales Coastal Path, Places to visit in Anglesey

The Wales Coastal Path is one of the best things about Wales and the Isle of Anglesey offers many incredible spots along this path.

I love that wherever you are on the coast of Wales you can pick up the path and walk and this includes Anglesey. It’s easy to do and free to do!

Here are options for short and long walks along the Wales Coastal Path on Anglesey Island!

I hope this post has helped you find the places to visit in Anglesey!

  • For more of my Wales posts see:
  • 3 Day Wales Itinerary!
  • Complete South Wales Itinerary For A Lush 1 Week in South Wales!
  • 16 Beautiful Staycations in Wales To Feel Like You’re Abroad!
  • 36 Stunning Wales Road Trip Destinations For Your Itinerary!
  • 16 Day Trips From Cardiff Visiting South Wales & England!

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How to spend a weekend in Anglesey, the eco-friendly island loved by William and Kate

Jan 21, 2021 • 10 min read

CAERNARFON,  - MAY 08:  Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge visit Newborough Beach to join the Menai Bridge Scouts as they explore the beach's wildlife habitat during a visit to North Wales on May 8, 2019 in Caernarfon, United Kingdom.  (Photo by Samir Hussein/Samir Hussein/WireImage)

William and Kate visit Newborough Beach, Anglesey © Samir Hussein / WireImage / Getty Images

The wild landscapes of North Wales are shroud in legend and myth, and, at times, the small island of Anglesey (or Ynys Môn in Welsh), cut adrift off Wales ’ north-western tip, can take on an air of the fantastical.

Stories of unblemished natural splendor (almost of all Anglesey’s coastline is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), medieval castles (Unesco-listed Beaumaris to name one), and abodes of future kings and queens (The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge lived on the island during the first years of their marriage) may sound like the stuff of fairy tales, but the island's charms are very real. So too is its ambitious campaign to tackle plastic pollution.

Ready to uncover the highlights of a magical land that might not be so far, far away? Here’s our itinerary for the best things to do during a weekend in Anglesey.

A boat house stands on the edge of the water at the end of a walkway in Anglesey. Behind it, a large bridge is visible.

Friday afternoon

Unless arriving by boat into Holyhead’s busy port, your first glimpse of Anglesey is likely to come from atop one of the two stoic bridges spanning the Menai Strait, a narrow but fierce funnel of water separating the island from the Welsh mainland.

Having crossed onto the island, stretch your legs and get a closer look at the colossal Menai Bridge (the world’s first iron suspension bridge) with a walk along the Belgian Promenade, which curves along the headland below the structure. This coastal walkway was built by Flemish refugees – who were accommodated on the island during WWI – as a show of gratitude to locals for the hospitality shown to them. The path runs along the strait from the gate of medieval St Tysilio’s Church, romantically set on its own forested island, to a particularly photographic boat house standing in the shadow of the grand bridge.

A view of Dylan's restaurant in Menai Bridge, Anglesey, from the water. The restaurant has a balcony, on which a number of diners are sitting, that overlooks the calm water.

Friday evening

In 2019, Anglesey became the first county in the UK to be awarded Plastic Free Community status by marine conservation group Surfers Against Sewage (SAS) as a result of its campaign to minimize its reliance on single-use plastics. While this may serve as an additional draw to the island for tourists, Sian Sykes, Anglesey’s SAS rep – who has litter-picked on the island with the Duke and Duchess – is aware of the important part visitors have in aiding the island with its green ambitions.

“We want to inspire people by showing them what a greener society can look like,” says Sian. “But visitors also have a crucial role to play in supporting the good work we are doing to try and become plastic free.”

Alongside bringing reusable water bottles and bags to the island, one simple way in which travelers can aid the movement is by choosing to dine-in restaurants that have committed to cutting their reliance on single-use plastic, which are identifiable by a wooden plaque on their exteriors.

Dylan’s in the town of Menai Bridge is one such business, which has brought in a host of changes to limit its plastic use, including no longer providing straws or plastic stirrers and taking part in the island’s water bottle refill scheme. The restaurant also places an emphasis on serving up fresh local produce, typified by house speciality Menai Muscles; which come fresh from the strait overlooked by the restaurant’s glass-walled conservatory. Other delights on offer here include lamb hotpot, seafood chowder and butternut squash risotto.

Two people walk on a hilly section of Llanddwyn Island with Newborough Beach in the background.

Saturday morning

Start your first full day in Anglesey bright and early with a walk along one of its best beaches. Newborough Beach is a long, dune-backed stretch of white sand that dusts the island’s southwestern corner, with dramatic vistas of Snowdonia mountain range visible from across the strait. Visitors can pay to park at the Government-run beachside car park (£5) or take a 40 minute walk through forested trails to the beach from a number of free car parks around the village of Niwbwrch.

Once at the beach, stroll northwards to the slim finger of land jutting out into the strait, which becomes cut off from the mainland at very high tides. This unassuming grassy landmass is Llanddwyn Island (Ynys Llanddwyn), famed for its association with the legend of St Dwynwen, the Welsh patron saint of lovers. The story goes that Dwynwen accidentally turned a would-be suitor to ice by giving him the cold shoulder, only to stumble across an angel (sometimes a potion) in a forest who rather fortuitously offers to grant her three wishes. Firstly, Dwynwen asks for her scorned admirer to be thawed; then – having learned romance to be a dangerous game – wishes for all true lovers to find happiness; before, somewhat dramatically, requesting that she never marry, and instead spend her life as a hermit on Llanddwyn.

St Dwynwen's Church in Anglesey at sunset. The church is essentially a ruin, with only parts of the walls remaining. Surrounding the church is thick grassland with a narrow walkway to the entrance.

The fantastical tale led to the island becoming an extremely popular pilgrimage site for hopeful romantics in the 16th century, with a small chapel being consecrated in Dwynwen’s name. The weather-gnarled stone walls of the church remain today, as does the original doorway stone that’s been worn smooth from thousands of pilgrims crossing the threshold in the hope of one day finding lasting love.

Fittingly, given the area's association with fledgling romance, the beach was also a favorite spot of William and Kate, with the farmhouse they rented a short drive away. Even more recently, the sands here have become a popular location for beach cleans ; but even if no organized picks are taking place during your visit you can still do your bit to help preserve the beach.

“It would be fantastic if visitors who go for a walk on the beach could pick up any plastic they might come across,” says Sian. “If you’re enjoying the beautiful coast we have here, then give some love back and help us protect it.”

A red squirrel standing on a tree branch and holding a nut.

Saturday afternoon

Having spent the morning marvelling at Anglesey’s pastoral charms, dedicate Saturday afternoon to seeking out some of the island’s impressive wildlife highlights.

Boat trips run year-round to Ynys Seiriol, better known by its moniker of Puffin Island. You’ll need to visit during breeding season (from May to July) to be in with a chance of spotting the photogenic, brightly-beaked seabirds, but, as a protected ecological site, the island is home to exciting avian life year-round, including cormorants, guillemots and razorbills. Seacoast Safaris and RibRide are among the operators offering tours.

For those not afraid of dipping a toe in the chilly Irish Sea, Anglesey Outdoors offers snorkel tours to get up close and personal with the island’s miscellany of marine life, including the occasional Atlantic grey seal, which are a common sight around the island. In a similar (but potentially warmer) vein, Psyched Paddleboarding  offers paddle boarding tours around the Anglesey coast, with the chance of spotting seals, dolphins and porpoises.

If you prefer to do your wildlife viewing with feet firmly on dry land, then make a beeline for Llyn Parc Mawr Community Woodland, which has become a haven for British red squirrels. Pushed to the brink of extinction by their larger and more robust American grey cousins (who compete with them for food and territory), Anglesey is one of the few places in the UK to spy these emblematic copper-furred critters. Squirrels can be seen year-round but autumn is a good bet, with less foliage and the animals active throughout the day, gathering nuts before winter.

A plate of fish and chips, with a large dollop of mushy peas, stands on a wooden table, with condiments and a pint of beer around it.

Saturday evening

After a busy day of sightseeing, it’s only right to spend the evening dining like a monarch. Located in the out-of-the-way village of Rhoscolyn (it seems privacy is paramount when you’re a royal), The White Eagle was a firm favorite with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge during their time on the island.

According to the jovial landlord, the Duke would always opt for the fish and chips, consisting of light, flaking cod and thin, crisp batter, plus a hearty dollop of mushy peas; usually washing it down with a pint of local beer. While the Duchess tended to be less regimented in her eating habits, flitting between the venue’s selection of fresh seafood and salads. Dinner here is made even more pleasant thanks to the floor-to-ceiling bay window, offering views down towards Rhoscolyn Beach.

South Stack Lighthouse stands on a small rocky outcrop on the island of Anglesey. It is surrounded by sea and a cloudy sky.

Sunday morning

Given Anglesey’s legion of celebrated seafood restaurants and cool artsy cafes, it might come as a surprise to learn that one of the island’s most highly-rated eateries is actually a burger van.

Recently relocated to its new scenic location near Holyhead Marina, ever-busy Pete’s Burger Bar rustles up bun-encased grub of the spill-out-into-your-lap variety, that can easily satiate the appetite of even the most rotund Welsh lorry driver – and in most cases provides change from a £5 note.

If you’re really hungry, opt for the evocatively titled Belly Buster – an overloaded bacon double cheese burger – and watch the fishing boats bob in the harbor while listening to Pete’s anecdotes about life on the island. 

Hands still slightly sticky with sauce, point your satnav in the direction of South Stack Lighthouse , located a short drive away. The lonely white structure, built in 1809, stands atop a tiny rocky islet that marks the very north-western tip of Wales, and draws a steady stream of photographers who come to snap the tranquil maritime scene from the cliffs above. Puffins are also occasionally spotted here, as well as seals, basking on the surrounding rocks. You can drive right up to the cliffs above the lighthouse, but more enjoyable is to undertake the hour-long walk through the heather fields from the car park around the headland.

The entrance gate to Beaumaris Castle in Anglsey, a large, unfinished castle that's surrounded by a moat.

Sunday afternoon

No half-decent trip to Wales is complete without a visit to a castle, and Unesco-listed Beaumaris Castle (Castell Biwmares) is a beauty, even if it never quite lived up to expectations.

The castle was planned to be the last and the greatest royal stronghold built by Edward I, with four layers of defence and sixteen stone towers aligned in near-perfect symmetry. Unfortunately, due to a lack of funds (450 stone masons were employed to work on the project), Edward’s dream was never realized and the castle stands as an unfinished masterpiece of medieval engineering. That said, crossing the moat and circling the structure, atop the tall outer walls, is still certain to thrill history buffs and general castle enthusiasts alike.

If you’re feeling peckish ahead of your journey home, consider making a quick detour up the coast to teeny-tiny Lligwy Beach Cafe, the first business on the island to sign up to cut their plastic use. The cafe offers cakes, teas and coffees, as well as oven-baked pizzas, in an unbeatable setting overlooking a serene, sheltered bay.

Before departing the island, there’s one last essential thing to tick off the list: the Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch station sign. The longest place name in the UK (which translates as Saint Mary’s Church in the hollow of the white hazel near a rapid whirlpool and the Church of Saint Tysilio of the red cave) was actually created as a very early example of a publicity stunt to bring people to the area – and still attracts selfie-snapping holidaymakers today. Well, when in Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch...

The railway station sign of the town of Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch in Anglesey.

Getting around

Anglesey is a relatively small island, measuring around 22 miles (35km) in length from north to south and roughly 25 miles (40km) from east to west. A private or rented car is the easiest way to get around (car rental companies on the island include Hertz and Enterprise ). However, there is also a train line running from Llanfairpwllgwyngyll to Holyhead, as well as buses linking major towns.

You might also like:

10 great day hikes in Wales    Where William and Kate spent their family vacation    Best things to do in winter in Wales   

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Download GPX file for this article

  • 1.2 Villages
  • 2 Other destinations
  • 3 Understand
  • 4.1 By plane
  • 4.2 By train
  • 4.5 By boat
  • 5.3 By foot
  • 6.1 Historical buildings
  • 6.2 Historical sites
  • 6.3 Industrial heritage
  • 6.4 Museums and Galleries
  • 6.5 Natural history
  • 7.1 Beaches
  • 7.3 Horse riding
  • 7.4 Photography
  • 7.5 Motor sport

Anglesey , just off the coast of northwestern Wales , is the largest island off southern Great Britain at 276 sq mi (714 km²). Well worth a stop when travelling between the UK and Ireland, and in its own right, Ynys Môn has a dramatic coastline, historical sights, and is a stronghold for the Welsh language .

Towns and villages [ edit ]

Map

Towns [ edit ]

  • 53.256 -4.314 1 Llangefni — county town
  • 53.406 -4.341 2 Amlwch — the most northerly town in Wales
  • 53.309 -4.633 3 Holyhead ( Caergybi ) — port town with frequent ferries to Dublin
  • 53.23 -4.16 4 Menai Bridge ( Porthaethwy ) — town near the suspension bridge connecting Anglesey to the mainland

Villages [ edit ]

tourist information on anglesey

  • 53.188 -4.463 5 Aberffraw ( Aberffro )
  • 53.3216 -4.2257 6 Benllech
  • 53.179 -4.273 7 Brynsiencyn
  • 53.293 -4.139 8 Llanddona
  • 53.3534 -4.537 9 Llanfaethlu
  • 53.223 -4.2 10 Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwyllllantysiliogogogoch (Llanfairpwllgwyngyll for short) – village with the second-longest name in the world after a place in New Zealand .
  • 53.35351 -4.2356 11 Moelfre
  • 53.16479 -4.359 12 Newborough ( Niwbwrch ) – town closest to Llanddwyn Island
  • 53.25 -4.6 13 Rhoscolyn
  • 53.229154 -4.520006 14 Rhosneigr
  • 53.28401 -4.56203 15 Valley ( Y Dyffryn )

Other destinations [ edit ]

  • 53.373716 -4.556408 1 Church Bay ( Porth Swtan )
  • 53.142 -4.408 2 Llanddwyn Island ( Ynys Llanddwyn )
  • 53.305833 -4.056667 3 Penmon
  • 53.2965 -4.20711 4 Red Wharf Bay ( Traeth Coch )
  • 53.306806 -4.69875 5 South Stack ( Ynys Lawd )
  • 53.283 -4.617 6 Trearddur Bay ( Bae Trearddur )

Understand [ edit ]

The Anglesey Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty [dead link] (AONB) has one of the most distinctive, attractive and varied landscapes in the British Isles. Anglesey was designated as an AONB in 1966 in order to protect the aesthetic appeal and variety of the island's coastal landscape and habitats from inappropriate development. The AONB is predominantly a coastal designation, covering most of the island's 125 mile coastline (including Llanddwyn), it contains rocky headlands, golden beaches, dunes, heaths and fine green countryside. Some of the beaches are recognised as being amongst the best in Great Britain and Europe. The AONB supports a wealth of wildlife such as choughs, grey seals, red squirrels, sea lavender and silver-studded blue butterflies. There are also many areas protected for their nature conservation value, such as Newborough Warren National Nature Reserve, and several Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Anglesey also hosts a large number of holiday homes, which is controversial with year-round residents.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

There are no scheduled flights to Anglesey Airport ( VLY  IATA ). However, Manchester Airport ( MAN  IATA ) and Liverpool Airport ( LPL  IATA ) are less than two hours drive from Anglesey.

By train [ edit ]

Holyhead 's status as an international ferry terminal means it is served by direct trains to Chester and London.

By car [ edit ]

The main bridge crossing from mainland Wales is via the A55 with a smaller road crossing on the old A5 at Menai Bridge .

By bus [ edit ]

National Express and Arriva from across the UK to Holyhead

By boat [ edit ]

Ferry port at Holyhead with a regular service from Dublin and Dun Laoghaire

Get around [ edit ]

The easiest way to get around the island. The A55 cuts straight across the island parallel to the old A5 route, providing a quick route to Holyhead ferry port. To see the island though, the A5025 taking you north round the island and the A4080 taking you south round the island are a better options.

Hertz have car hire services in Hollyhead and Valley airport

There are numerous bus services between the towns and villages on the island, with timetables on the county council's web site

By foot [ edit ]

Anglesey Coastal Path . Fairly easy 130-mile (200-km) walking trail around this island off the northwest corner of Wales, with diverse coastal scenery which is 95% within the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and 20 attractive villages en route.

See [ edit ]

tourist information on anglesey

Historical buildings [ edit ]

  • Beaumaris has a number of attractions, the most obvious one being the large ruins of Beaumaris Castle . Also open to the public is a 17th Century courthouse and well worth a visit the 19th century gaol .
  • Porthwen Brickworks Built in the Victorian times, was a brick works on the beach Porth Wen located near Cemaes.
  • Plas Newydd Country House and Gardens near Llanfairpwllgwyngyll
  • Lighthouses : Skerries Lighthouse, The Skerries (reached via Holyhead ); South Stack ; Trwyn Du Penmon ; Point Lynas Amlwch , Llanddwyn Island Newborough
  • St Cwyfan , church in the sea near Aberffraw
  • Penmon Priory and dovecote, Penmon

Historical sites [ edit ]

  • Holyhead Mountain Hut Circles . Site of village dating back to Middle Stone Age, South Stack
  • Din Lligwy , Neolithic, Roman and Medieval, near Moelfre

Industrial heritage [ edit ]

  • Menai Suspension Bridge . Designed by Thomas Telford and completed in 1826, Menai Bridge
  • Llynon Windmill , Llanddeusant near Llanfaethlu
  • Copper Kingdom Centre Amlwch

Museums and Galleries [ edit ]

  • Oriel Ynys Môn in Llangefni

Natural history [ edit ]

  • Anglesey Sea Zoo near Brynsiencyn
  • Pili Palas Butterfly Palace near Menai Bridge
  • South Stack RSPB reserve
  • Valley Wetlands RSPB reserve

Do [ edit ]

tourist information on anglesey

Beaches [ edit ]

Llanddona , Benllech , Church Bay , Porth Dafarch, Trearddur Bay and Llanddwyn ( Newborough ) are all designated Blue Flag [dead link] beaches.

Beaches that have received Green coast and Seaside awards are: Aberffraw ; Borth Wen, Silver Bay ( Rhoscolyn ); Porth Trwyn ( Llanfaethlu ); Porth Ty’n Tywyn, Cable Bay, Porth Nobla, Traeth Crigyll ( Rhosneigr ); Cemlyn Bay; St David's ( Red Wharf Bay ); Sandy Beach, Llanfwrog (near Llanfaethlu ); Lligwy Beach, Dulas (near Moelfre ).

Other top beaches: Cemaes ( Amlwch ); Traeth Bychan ( Llangefni ); Moelfre .

Hiking [ edit ]

  • The Anglesey section of the Wales Coast Path
  • Anglesey Walks , Valley LL65 3DN , [email protected] . Discover the unique wonder of the Isle of Anglesey through beautiful guided walks.  

Horse riding [ edit ]

There are a number of equestrian centres on the island offering riding lessons including the chance to ride along the beach. These include the Isle of Anglesey Riding Centre in Tal Y Foel near Brynsiencyn .

Photography [ edit ]

  • Cheryl Hamer Photography , Penmon , ☏ +44 7837 014534 , [email protected] . M- Sa 09:00-20:00 . Offers courses in (landscape) photography in the Anglesey and Snowdonia scenery. You can choose from small group courses or individual tuition. £99 for a full day .  

Motor sport [ edit ]

Anglesey Circuit, west of Aberffraw hosts a number of car and bike racing events as well providing performance driving training courses.

Sleep [ edit ]

As well as the hotels and bed and breakfast accommodation in the towns there is a good choice of self-catering cottages and caravans in the area. There are a number of specialist providers for Anglesey and the surrounding area, such as Menai Holiday Cottages and Wales Tourist online . Properties on Anglesey include those in the heart of the popular resorts of Trearddur Bay, Red Wharf Bay and Rhosneigr, as well as ones nestled in the countryside or located in picturesque fishing ports and historic towns.

Eat [ edit ]

Apart from the restaurants in the towns it is well worth hunting out the country pubs in the small villages.

Drink [ edit ]

Visit one of the pubs in the villages.

Go next [ edit ]

  • Snowdonia National Park

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Best Places to Visit in Anglesey | The Ultimate Guide

  • Travel ,  Wales

Ultimate-Guide-To-Anglesey

After spending quite a few holidays and weekends exploring Anglesey I thought I’d share this ultimate guide to the island. It covers some of the best places to visit, with attractions perfect for the whole family as well as thrill-seeking adventures. This small island is known for its many beautiful beaches and the epic views begin from the moment you cross over from the mainland. So here is my ultimate guide to Anglesey, so you can make the most of your trip there!

Ynys Llanddwyn Island | Newborough

best-places-to-visit-in-anglesey.jpg

I’m starting this list with one of my favourite places on Anglesey, Newborough Beach. This location is incredible for so many reasons, from the rugged mountains of Snowdonia and the Llyn Peninsula in the distance, to the soft sandy beach and a pine forest full of red squirrels that borders the coastline.

There’s something here for everyone. This beach has ample parking that costs £5.20 all day, with a toilet block, BBQ’s and an outdoor shower to rinse off the sand. This place can get busy in the Summer so arrive early to beat the crowds for the car park! But the beach itself is large enough that it won’t feel crowded even on a hot summers day.

Newborough beach also has a tidal island, Ynys Llanddwyn (featured in the photo) which gets cut off during high tide. So double-check the tide times before you visit to avoid getting wet feet! It takes about 30 – 50 minutes to walk to the island from the car park, but it’s definitely worth the walk. You can easily spend a whole day just relaxing and exploring this area!

Menai Suspension Bridge

tourist information on anglesey

There are two ways to get across to Angelsey if you’re travelling by car from mainland Wales. Both of these take you over the Menai Strait.

The most popular way to cross over to Anglesey is to take the A55 across the Britannia Bridge, but just to the right of this bridge is a second one just a short detour away. This second bridge is the Menai Suspension Bridge. It was the first modern suspension bridge in the world and it was built by Thomas Telford in 1826. It is still considered one of the great industrial wonders of the 19th century!

I’d recommend detouring off the A55 to pick up the A5 to cross over this bridge especially if it’s your first time visiting Anglesey. This is such a great experience and the perfect way to start your trip. But before you carry on your journey to the rest of the island, be sure to stop off and explore the town of Menai. Walking around the town, admiring the bridge from below and enjoying some delicious food in one of the many amazing restaurants. Some of my favourite restaurants in Menai include Dylan’s, Hydeout Bar Smokehouse, The Liverpool Arms and Tom’s Hamburger House.

The Place With The Longest Name In The UK!

tourist information on anglesey

After exploring Menai, the next place you need to visit is a location with the longest name in the UK and the second-longest place name in the world. Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogeryrchwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch also commonly known as Llanfairpwll, or Llanfair PG for short has 58 letters in total! The word means ‘St Mary’s Church in the Hollow of the White Hazel Near to the Rapid Whirlpool of Llantysilio of the Red Cave’. The reason why Llanfair PG is so long is the result of a businessman in the 1880’s who lengthened the name in an attempt to attract tourists to the area. It’s safe to say that nearly 150 years later, it worked!

If you’re interested in learning how to say Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogeryrchwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch click the video below, it’s taken me about 2 months to learn how to say it but I think I’ve got it right!

beaumaris-anglesey

Beaumaris is a perfect place to base your holiday, with direct links to the main roads that take you all across the island. With its pastel-coloured houses and quirky shops, this town is easy to fall in love with!

There are plenty of things for you to do whilst you are here. You can visit the unfinished masterpiece that is Beaumaris Castle, which was never finished due to the money and supplies running out before the castle reached its full height. There are also boat trips which leave from the pier. These boat trips take you around Puffin Island and Penmon Point Lighthouse. I’ve gone on one of these boat trips and it’s a great opportunity to see the wildlife that frequent Anglesey’s coastline. Keep an eye out for puffins, seals as well as a few dolphins who frequently visit this area.

South Stack Lighthouse | Holyhead

top-things-to-do-in-anglesey.jpg

What is the ultimate guide to Anglesey without mentioning the most iconic lighthouse in Anglesey? South Stack is a lighthouse and RSPB reserve just off the Northwest coast of Anglesey on an even smaller island called Holyhead. Known for its many seabirds such as the puffins and guillemots that frequent the area as well as the South Stack Lighthouse which is a prominent feature of this location. This is also the best place to see the sunset and is a favourite location for many photographers!

If you want to explore the place a bit further, there are 400 steps to get down to the lighthouse itself, where you can go on a tour of the former engine room. Or you can just soak in the views from the lighthouse from the newly built cafe that offers wonderful coastal views. The parking is free here for the first two hours which is plenty of time to stop off to get a few photos and explore the area around South Stack Lighthouse.

cemaes-bay-anglesey

Cemaes Bay is the most northerly village in Wales. With two beaches and an idyllic harbour, this location should be on your list of places to visit. This is a popular place in the summer to paddleboard, swim in the sea and enjoy the sheltered harbour. It’s a popular spot for locals and a great place to take children to enjoy the sea on a safe beach. There’s parking right on the seafront, with one of the car parks featuring a small hut that sells some of the best woodfire pizza’s I’ve had! They taste particularly amazing after a morning of activities in the sea!

Melin Llynon

This small windmill on Anglesey has taken the island by storm with some of the best doughnuts in the whole of North Wales or in my opinion the whole of the UK! They’re the creation of Richard Holt (a chef who’s worked in London’s most exclusive Michelin Star restaurants), as well as his amazing team. With queues that often wrap around the building, it’s easy to see why this is a popular favourite amongst locals and tourists alike! The doughnut or as they’re brilliantly named here Mônuts (after Ynys Môn the welsh name for Anglesey) often sell out before 1pm so it’s best to arrive early. I’ve visited a few times now and my favourite Mônuts are the Lotus and all of the Chocolate ones,plus their milkshakes and chocolate bars are just as incredible.

The windmill here was built in 1775 and is the only working windmill in Wales producing stone-ground wholemeal flour using organic wheat. You can explore inside the windmill and learn more about its history in Anglesey. There are also two roundhouses that offer a great insight of the life of Iron Age farmers over 3000 years ago. So if you visit Anglesey, Melin Llynon is definitely worth spending some time exploring and indulging in some of the most incredible Mônuts.

Penmon Point

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One of the best places to visit for sunrise is Penmon Point lighthouse, located on the East Coast of the island. There’s a private toll road to get to the lighthouse which is £2.50 but the parking afterwards is free. This place becomes famous in the summer as bioluminescence plankton light up the shores with bright blue light at night and it becomes a hub for photographers and spectators.

There’s a cafe which sells delicious pizza and food as well as some toilets. Pizza always tastes the best when you eat it with an epic view and it doesn’t get much better than this place!

Parys Mountain

tourist information on anglesey

If you ever wanted to experience what it might be like walking on Mars then this might just be the place for you! Located just outside the town of Amlwch is the site of a large copper mine. The colours of this mine are incredible, especially on a sunny day as the mine dazzles in hundreds of vibrant shades of orange and red.

This was once one of the largest copper mines in Europe in the 1700s and has had activity in the area for over 4000 years. It is completely free to visit this location and worth a visit if you are on the northern side of the island.

PLACES TO STAY

There are plenty of places to stay across Anglesey if you are looking to extend your trip here. Beaumaris is a good location to stay at, with easy access across the whole island. As well as breathtaking views, and great restaurants it is the perfect base for a holiday here. Click the map below to view accommodation and places to stay around the area.

Additional Recommendations

There are so many places worth visiting around Anglesey. These places are perfect for families, thrill-seekers as well as those who want to relax at the beach. Here are some wonderful locations I have recently explored that I can fully recommend visiting! Click any of the links to visit their website to find out more and book tickets. I will keep adding to this section of the blog post as I explore the island more, so feel free to check back here for future recommendations.

Family Attractions and Days Out for Kids in Anglesey

Anglesey Sea Zoo | This award-winning family attraction is a wonderful place to visit as you come face to face with Britain’s most elusive sea creatures including Seahorses, Octopus, Lobsters and plenty more. There are over 40 tanks here and the zoo features one of the largest aquariums in Wales displaying over 150 native species.

Pili Plas | Located near the Menai Bridge is another award-winning attraction perfect for the whole family, whatever the weather! They have tropical butterflies, snakes, tarantulas, lizards, exotic birds and so much more. As well as farm animals, an adventure playground and an indoor play zone.

Foel Farm Park | Enjoy a real farm experience at Foel Farm, with the opportunity to bottle feed lambs or calves! Cuddles with bunnies, riding a pony and taking a tractor ride around the farm are some of the things available here. All located just a short distance away from the coast!

Fun Activities and Sports in Anglesey

tourist information on anglesey

Menai RibRide | If you’re looking for some thrill-seeking adventures whilst in Anglesey, a boat trip with RibRide might be for you. Take a trip on one of the fastest RibRides in the world along the coastline of Anglesey. Soaking in the amazing views and wildlife along the way.

Anglesey Riding Centre | Set along the Menai Strait with incredible views of Caernarfon Castle and Snowdonia, this riding centre offers great views whilst on your ride out. They offer lessons and hacks that are suitable for all abilities from a complete beginner to the more experienced rider. With 5 miles of private bridleways and beach excursions, there’s something for everyone. This offers an incredible experience to see Anglesey in a whole new way.

Puffin Island Cruises | Departing from the pier at Beaumaris, boat trips from here offer a leisurely cruise along the Menai Strait. I went on this cruise a few years back and thoroughly enjoyed my time on the boat. It takes you on a 90 journey around Puffin Island near Penmon Point. There’s plenty of wildlife to view and interesting commentary along the way. Be sure to take a warm coat as it can get chippy out on the waters even in the Summer.

Museums, Gardens and Historial Places in Anglesey

tourist information on anglesey

Plas Newydd | A wonderful country house located right on the Menai Strait. This National Trust has origins dating back to 1470 it also has incredible views across the Menai Strait.

Anglesey Transport Museum | With over 100 vehicles a trip to the transport museum in Newborough is like stepping back in time. They have a replica of a 1940’s street surrounded by memorabilia from over the decades. This includes tractors, cars, static engines, motorcycles and military vehicles. Not to mention the incredible panoramic views of Snowdonia in the distance.

Plas Cadnant | Described as one of North Wales best-kept secrets! This award-winning hidden garden features a stunning walled garden, woodlands and waterfalls. It is located between the Menai Bridge and Beaumaris and there is no booking is necessary for these gardens.

Holyhead Maritime Museum | Situated in the picturesque Newry Beach, this maritime museum is in one of the oldest lifeboat stations in Wales. It’s full of history about shipwrecks, rescues and what life was like sailing on the Irish sea over a century ago.

Bryn Celli Ddu Burial Chamber | This is one of Anglesey’s most famous prehistoric landmarks that date back to 3000BC. The name Bryn Celli Ddu means the ‘Mound in the Dark Grove’ in English. This is free to visit and is a short 15-minute walk away from the car park.

Coastal Attractions in Anglesey

holyhead breakwater

Breakwater Lighthouse and Holyhead Breakwater | At 1.7 miles long, this victorian structure is the longest breakwater in the UK. Popular with fishermen this breakwater is a lovely walk and leads to the Breakwater Lighthouse. Charter boats also run from the marina here, these go out fishing over the numerous wrecks and reefs in the area.

Church Bay | Church Bay is a lovely sand and pebble beach backed by cliffs. This is the perfect spot for swimming, sailing, fishing and surfing. It is also the location of an amazing seafood restaurant called the Lobster Pot which is worth a visit!

tourist information on anglesey

If you are looking for some amazing places to photograph in North Wales then I’ve got the perfect book recommendations! These books include the best time of day to go and where to shoot for the best composition. As well as a more in-depth guide into some of the places I have mentioned.

My favourite book is  Photographing North Wales: The Most Beautiful Places to Visit . It is such a great book and has helped to inspire my photography loads over the past few years. As well as planning my trips around the area. Definitely, one which is worth the money, especially if you are going on a holiday to Anglesey and North Wales. Click any of the images below to shop for these books on Amazon. 

Have you ever been to Anglesey? If you have, I would love to know what your recommendations on places to visit are. I’m hoping to go back there in the next few weeks. I’d love to explore the island during Autumn time and maybe catch a glimpse of a few Red Squirrels. I hope you have enjoyed this blog post on the ultimate guide to Anglesey!

If you are looking for more places to visit around Wales then my blog post on How to Spend a Day in North Wales would be a great read for you! I also have a new blog post on the Perfect Gift Guide for That Outdoor Adventurer in your life!

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Hey, I'm Adell! I'm a West Midlands based travel, adventure blogger and photographer. Follow me on my journeys as I hike, drive and photograph my way around the United Kingdom and beyond. Sharing detailed travel guides, the best places to take photos as well as so much more.

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I love Anglesey! What a lovely post. I really enjoyed South Stacks – and can also recommend Cemlyn Bay too ?

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poutineandprada

Wales is such an amazing country. I loved there for a year and loved it. Your pictures are beautiful!

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Amelia in Hull

Gorgeous photos! I’d love to visit some time xx

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KENNETH KOSBAB

My mother was born in Camaes Bay and when she died we took her ashes to a small church to put on the family grave and found out I was related to Emlyn Hughes – amazing. We live in Croydon, Surrey.

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The 30 best things to do in Anglesey Wales

The stunning island in North Wales with great beaches, islands, a World Heritage Castle and more

Things to do in Anglesey Image of South Stack lighthouse at sunset

Are you looking for the best things to do in Anglesey? The Isle of Anglesey is the largest of around 50 Welsh islands. It is home to one of the finest castles in North Wales as well as some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.

I’ve loved Anglesey for over 40 years, and have been fortunate to visit a great many times. I’ve explored all corners of Anglesey over countless visits, and it’s somewhere I’ll continue to return many more times.

In this guide, I’ll show you the best things to do on Anglesey, which is undoubtedly one of Wales’s best places to visit.

⭐️ If you need to hire a car we recommend using Discover cars to compare prices and availability before making a booking.

Table of Contents

Why Visit Anglesey

Llanddwyn Island Image of lighthouse and beach on Llanddwyn Island Anglesey Wales

We’ve already divulged the secrets of the best Anglesey beaches , including stunning Llanddwyn Island . Now it’s time to venture further, and tell you about the huge range of things to do in Anglesey.

Some of the beaches on Anglesey are among the most beautiful beaches in Europe, and for many they’re the main reason to visit Anglesey.  

This island off the north Wales coast is home to one of the finest castles in North Wales in Beaumaris, and the village with the longest place name in the UK.

Rhosneigr is home to some of the best surfing in North Wales, and one of the best things to do on Anglesey is to explore the coast path, which has some of the best sections on the Wales Coast Path.

Inland from the amazing beaches in Anglesey you’ll find a rural landscape of green fields, vast sand dune systems, rocky hilltops and a great many prehistoric burial chambers and standing stones. It’s one of the most evocative landscapes in Wales , somewhere we’ve been drawn back to many times over.

So for the best things to do Anglesey has to offer, read on.

Image of boats on the Menai Strait near Beaumaris Anglesey

30 Best things to do in Anglesey

1. beaumaris castle.

Image of Beaumaris Castle Anglesey and the mountains of Snowdonia

Beaumaris Castle is one of the greatest of all Welsh castles , one of four included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site that also includes Caernarfon, Conwy and Harlech, the Castles of Edward I in Gwynedd .

Beaumaris sits close to the east end of the Menai Strait, looking across to the Snowdonia mountains. It was the last of Edward I’s Iron Ring of castles built to suppress the Welsh, and it was never finished.

Image of Beaumaris Castle Anglesey North Wales UK

Edward was the medieval equivalent of maxed out so this masterpiece of military architecture remains incomplete.

Beaumaris is undoubtedly the best of the Anglesey towns, with a pleasant high street full of independent shops.

It’s one of the best places to stay in Anglesey, with several of the best Anglesey hotels in the town or close by.

2. Menai Suspension Bridge

Image of the Menai Suspension Bridge and Snowdonia mountains North Wales

Thomas Telford’s Menai Suspension Bridge is one of the most beautiful bridges in Europe , an elegant marvel of the industrial age (it was completed in 1826) in a serene location beneath the mountains of Snowdonia.

Image of the Menai Suspension Bridge in autumn Anglesey Wales UK

The modern Britannia Bridge now carries the vast majority of traffic to Anglesey, but the Menai Bridge was the first crossing between mainland Wales and Anglesey island, carrying the A5 road between London and Holyhead.

It’s one of the most recognisable landmarks in Wales , and the best view is from the lay-by on the A5 heading towards Llanfair PG.

3. Llanddwyn Island

Image of Llanddwyn Island beach and lighthouse Anglesey

Llanddwyn Island has one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe , a description that also fits Newborough Beach, which you need to walk along to reach it.

It’s possibly the best of all places to visit in Anglesey, a tidal island reached by a half-hour walk along the stunning Newborough Beach.

Image of the stone cross and lighthouse on Llanddwyn Island Anglesey Wales UK

It’s an isolated spot, hidden behind miles of pine forest, but once you’re out of the trees you’re in a different world, with breathtaking views to the mountains on the Welsh mainland.

The island was once the retreat of Santes Dwynwen, the Welsh patron saint of lovers, and the ruin of a chapel dedicated to her is one of the first things you’ll see on the island.

4. South Stack Lighthouse

Image of South Stack lighthouse Anglesey at sunset

This iconic Anglesey lighthouse is just 3 km (5 miles) from busy Holyhead, but the feel of the place couldn’t be more different.

The soaring cliffs of the South Stack RSPB Reserve are a haven for seabirds, including the distinctive orange-beaked chough which lives there year-round, while puffins, guillemots and razorbills nest there in springtime.

Image of South Stack lighthouse Anglesey Wales UK

South Stack lighthouse was built in 1809 to warn passing shipping away from the treacherous coastline, and it has reopened its doors to visitors in the last few years.  

The view from the cliffs, especially at sunset in spring and summer, is unforgettable.

Image of South Stack lighthouse Anglesey Wales UK

The area around South Stack cliffs is rich in history, with the Holyhead Mountain Hut Circles – the remains of an Iron Age village – across the road from the car park, and one of the best Anglesey walks takes you to the summit of Holyhead mountain from there.

5. Anglesey Sea Zoo

Image of Anglesey Sea Zoo Brynsiencyn Anglesey Wales UK

Our top pick of things to do in Anglesey in the rain is the Anglesey Sea Zoo . It’s a great introduction to British marine life, with many different environments (shipwrecks, piers, rockpools and a kelp forest) re-created in the aquarium.

You’ll find everything from seahorses to snakelock anemones, skates to sharks, flatfish, jellyfish and more.

They also have a great deal whereby you can return for a second visit – ideal with a nature lover like our son – within a week of your first.

6. Foel Farm Park

Image of child patting goat at Foel Farm Park Anglesey

We took our Little Man to Foel Farm Park during a brief winter visit to Anglesey, and he adored it.

Image of piglets at Foel Farm Park Anglesey

We spent most of the time with the animals inside, especially the little piglets huddled together, which he thought was wonderful.

If we had visited a week later, we would have seen the first lambs of the year. Instead we also went on a tractor tour of the farmyard and surrounding fields.

It’s on the same minor coastal road as Anglesey Sea Zoo and Halen Mon, a mile or so from the villages of Brynsiencyn and Dwyran.

The views across the Menai Strait are worth the trip too, and you can clearly see Caernarfon Castle across the water in most weather conditions.

7. Halen Mon – Anglesey Sea Salt

Image of Halen Mon sea salts Anglesey Wales UK

Owned and run by the same family as Anglesey Sea Zoo next door, Halen Môn has been harvesting sea salt from the Menai Strait and Anglesey coastline since the 1990s.

The guided tour shows you how it’s all done, and you get to do a full tasting at the end. We haven’t done the tour yet but can vouch for the salt – it’s some of the best we’ve ever tasted.

I once even spotted some at a restaurant in Australia – it’s exported all over the planet, and you’ll find varieties of it in food stores and delis all around the world.

8. Malltraeth Sands

Image of Malltraeth Sands beach Anglesey North Wales

Malltraeth Beach is the northern continuation of Newborough Beach, the main approach to Llanddwyn Island.

It’s bordered by the Newborough Warren pine forest and the Cefni estuary, and is roughly 3 km (2 miles from Malltraeth village.

It’s an easy flat walk along the Cob – causeway – in Malltraeth to the forest and eventually the beach, which you will almost certainly have to yourself.

9. Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch

Image of the famous station sign at Llanfair PG Anglesey

The local road signs just say ‘Llanfair PG’. It’s one of the more curious villages in North Wales , where most people visit because of its elongated name, or to pop into the local Co-op for a sandwich.

It’s only a mile from the Menai Strait and one of the best views in Wales, to the nearby Menai Suspension Bridge.

The main attractions are the various place name signs, which can be found at the railway station and the adjacent James Pringle Weavers shopping complex.

Image of the Marquess of Anglesey's Column Llanfair PG Anglesey Wales UK

The village’s name was originally Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, but some locals thought a longer name would attract more visitors and put it on the map.

They made it so long it would fill many maps! It’s meaning in English is ‘St Mary’s Church in the hollow of the white hazel near the rapid whirlpool of the church of St Tysilio of the Red Cave’. It’s the longest place name in Europe and the second longest in the world.

10. Bryn Celli Ddu Burial Chamber

Image of Bryn Celli Ddu burial chamber Anglesey

The burial chamber Anglesey is best-known for is Bryn Celli Ddu , whose name translates as Hill of the Black Grove.

It’s free to visit at any time, a five-minute walk from car parking spaces in country lanes 2 miles (3 km) from Llanfair PG – I’d suggest going early or late in the day to appreciate this site at its most atmospheric.

The chambered tomb – dating back to the Neolithic period, up to 5,000 years ago – is covered by a circular grass-covered mound.

Intriguingly, the whole of the central passage is illuminated by sunlight on the morning of the summer solstice, 21 st June.

11. Aberffraw Beach and Dunes

tourist information on anglesey

Aberffraw village was once a royal capital, from where the ancient princes of Gwynedd once governed much of North Wales.

The only remnant of any age is the stone arched bridge in the village, which spans the Afon Ffraw river before its short run to the sea.

You have to drive through a vast sand dune system to reach the village, then pass another one on the walk to the beach.

The ten-minute walk is rewarded with sublime views of Snowdonia, and it’s one of the best beaches Anglesey has, the crowds kept down by the walk there.

12. Anglesey Walks – The North Coast

Image of the Anglesey Coast Path looking towards Porth Llanlleiana

There is some superlative Anglesey walking to be discovered, particularly along its 125-mile coast path.

The northern section of the coast is one of the least-visited parts, but some of the best Anglesey coast walks are along this section.

Image of the north Anglesey coast Wales Uk

The main attraction here is the landscape, with high, steep cliffs plunging seaward. Start at the picturesque church of Llanbadrig and head east.

This is one of the best sections on the entire island, finishing at the ruined china clay works at Porth Llanlleiana. Continue east to Porth Wen Brickworks, and on to Bull Bay or Amlwch to make a full day of it.

13. Rhoscolyn Beaches and Coast

Image of sea kayakers paddling below Bwa Gwyn rock arch Rhoscolyn Anglesey Wales

Rhoscolyn has long been one of my favourite places to go in Anglesey. It’s a scattered, strung-out village spread along the lanes of the south of Holy Island (Ynys Cybi), a few miles south of Holyhead.

There are two wide sandy beaches to the south of the village, then the coast completely changes character, with pink, white and black strata of ancient rock and the stunning Bwa Gwyn white arch less than a mile from the village.

There is also a holy well dedicated to the local saint Gwenfaen – another name for the village is Llanwenfaen.

The area is one of the best places to visit in Anglesey, and The White Eagle one of the best Anglesey pubs, with a bistro-style menu.

14. Church Bay Anglesey

Image of Church Bay beach Anglesey Wales Uk

Church Bay – Porth Swtan in Welsh – is one of the best beaches in North Wales .

It’s in one of the quietest parts of the island, the remote north-west coast a few miles south of Carmel Head.

It’s a beautiful, picturesque spot, a wide swathe of sand bordered by rocks and rockpools ideal for adventurous kids.

15. Parys Mountain, Amlwch

Image of the former copper mine at Parys Mountain Anglesey

In the 18 th century Parys Mountain was the largest copper mine in the world.

It is an enormous site, two miles inland from the north Anglesey coast and its port of Amlwch. Parys Mountain is one of the most striking and unusual landscapes in Wales , its bright copper, old gold and streaked pink and black surfaces scoured away, in contrast to the rolling green fields surrounding it.

Image of Parys Mountain copper mine Anglesey North Wales UK

 It may be hard to picture now, but Amlwch was once a bustling boomtown with well around 1,500 workers employed on the mountain.

It takes around two hours to do the mountain circuit walk, but also try to visit Copper Kingdom on the quay in Amlwch Port for an insight into what life was like for the workers.

See Also: The Welsh Slate Landscape – Wales’ Newest World Heritage Site

16. Cemlyn Bay

Image of Cemlyn Bay Anglesey

Cemlyn Bay is a remote Anglesey beach unlike any other. The beach is a steep bank of shingle, sheltering a lagoon that’s a haven for birdlife.

It’s home to common, Arctic and sandwich terns (some of which also nest on the nearby Skerries islets). Different birds frequent the shingle ridge and lagoon throughout the year, with oystercatchers and ringed plovers breeding on the former. 

You may also get to spot an Atlantic grey seal near the shoreline.

17. The Skerries – Anglesey Rib Ride

Image of the Skerries lighthouse and islands, North Wales

The Skerries – Ynysoedd y Moelrhoniaid in Welsh – are a series of islands off the north-west coast of Anglesey.

They’re normally visible from the nearby Anglesey coastline, and the lighthouse – the most remote of the lighthouses on Anglesey – has been signalling to shipping since 1716 – the present structure was completed in 1759.

It’s a breeding ground for over 2,000 pairs of Arctic terns, and common terns and puffins in season. Anglesey Rib Ride run boat trips there from Holyhead Marina, exploring the remote coastline between Church Bay and Carmel Head on the way – one of the best Anglesey boat trips.

18. Penmon Priory

Image of Penmon Piory and Dovecote Anglesey

Penmon Priory is a beautiful old 12 th century church hidden away in the north-eastern corner of Anglesey with heart-melting views across the Menai Strait to the mountains of Snowdonia.

The church is dedicated to St Seiriol, an ascetic who lived on nearby Puffin Island.

The simple church is one of the most enchanting Anglesey churches, and you can also visit the medieval Dovecote across the road and St Seiriol’s Well close by.

The 21st century seems a long way away in this idyllic little place.  

19. Rhosneigr Surfing

Image of Traeth Crigyll beach Rhosneigr Anglesey

Rhosneigr is the uncontested Anglesey surfing capital. The village is quite different in feel to most of the rest of the island, rather like Abersoch is to the rest of the Llyn Peninsula , with more upmarket places to stay and eat than you tend to find elsewhere on Anglesey.

There are two beaches in Rhosneigr, very different in character. Traeth Llydan is where you head for the best of the Anglesey surf, and in the right conditions you’ll also see kite surfers and windsurfers out as well.

Traeth Crigyll, just to the east of the town, is more sheltered, and ideal for families with young kids who can paddle and build sandcastles to their hearts’ content.

20. Porth Wen Brickworks

Image of Porth Wen Brickworks Anglesey Wales

The extensive remains of the 19 th century Porth Wen Brickworks dominate the cove of the same name on the north Anglesey coast between Cemaes and Bull Bay.

There are great views over the complex, which was abandoned after World War I, from the Coast Path, and the site can be accessed, albeit with a rather steep scramble down.

There are some magnificent old buildings including circular kilns, and striking scenery including a natural rock arch among the ruins.

A compelling part of Welsh industrial history in a gorgeous setting.

21. Burial Chambers and Standing Stones of Anglesey, Wales

Image of the Penrhosfeilw standing stones near Holyhead Anglesey

Anglesey is richly endowed with ancient monuments, with examples in all corners of the island.

Image of Lligwy burial chamber Anglesey Wales UK

They range from the standing stones of Penrhosfeilw and Holyhead Mountain Hut Circles on Holy Island to the enormous slabs of the Lligwy Burial Chamber on the east of the island to the remarkable chambered tomb of Barclodiad y Gawres, on a headland above Cable Bay.

There are over a hundred of these monuments around the island.

22. Ship Inn, Red Wharf Bay

Image of the Ship Inn Red Wharf Bay Anglesey Wales Uk

Red Wharf Bay is a beautiful part of Anglesey, that is a vast bay with boats at high tide and an immense expanse of sand at low tide.

The Ship Inn has an idyllic location at the end of the minor road, and in summer is a fantastic place to sit outside and enjoy a beer or glass of wine.

I haven’t eaten there for many years, but when I did it was high quality pub food.

23. Traeth Lligwy, Moelfre

Image of Lligwy Beach, Anglesey

Traeth Lligwy is one of the best beaches on Anglesey, occupying a glorious spot on the east coast of the island close to the seaside village of Moelfre.

It’s a gorgeous wide sandy beach, less exposed than the beaches on the west side of the island. At low tide a great many rockpools are revealed, just the place for inquisitive kids to discover some of the local marine life.

The coast path between Moelfre to the east and Traeth yr Ora beach to the north is one of the best walks on Anglesey, taking you to one of the most secluded Anglesey beaches which you’ll have to yourself, even in summer.

24. Oriel Mon, Llangefni

Oriel Môn is the main museum and art gallery in Anglesey, located on the edge of the island’s ‘capital’, Llangefni.

The Museum shows you the history of Anglesey, pulling together all the strands we’ve separated out here.

The art gallery focuses on two very different artists, both of whom lived in Anglesey for many years. Charles Tunnicliffe’s collection of wildlife drawings is captivating, and Sir Kyffin Williams is mainly known for his distinctive landscapes of Snowdonia and Anglesey.

Well worth a couple of hours of your time. 

25. Puffin Island

Image of Puffin Island and Trwyn Du lighthouse Anglesey Wales UK

Puffin Island – Ynys Seiriol in Welsh – was the home of the local saint Seiriol in his later years, and he established a monastic cell there. The 12 th century remains of a church dedicated to him remain in the island, but the main attraction nowadays is the wildlife.

The island is one of the most popular Anglesey boat trip destinations, with birdwatchers drawn by the nesting great cormorants, kittiwakes, guillemots and more.

The island’s original population of puffins was all but wiped out by brown rats, which have in turn suffered the same fate.

The puffin population is slowly recovering. Puffin Island boat trips depart Beaumaris in the spring and summer.

26. Beaumaris Gaol

Image of Beaumaris Gaol Anglesey North Wales UK

There are several things to do in Beaumaris other than visiting the Castle. These include the 19 th century Beaumaris Gaol, a small provincial prison that is incredibly well-preserved.

The lot of a Victorian era prisoner was a grim one indeed, although Beaumaris was considered one of the more enlightened and humane establishments of its time.

You can explore the corridors and cells, including the condemned cell where two prisoners were held before their executions.

One of them swore he was innocent, and placed a curse on the church tower clock when his final appeal for clemency was refused. To this day the four faces of the clock do not tell the same time.

27. Holyhead Roman Fort

Image of the church of St Cybi in the Roman fort at Holyhead

There aren’t a great many things to do in Holyhead to detain you long.

It’s a busy, workaday port with a great deal of traffic passing through.

The one place of note in Holyhead town centre is the small Caer Gybi Roman fort , which is across the street from the Old Harbour.

The walls are very well-preserved, and the medieval parish church of St Cybi is also housed within.

There are other Roman remains nearby, at Caer Y Twr hillfort on the summit of Holyhead Mountain.

28. Ferry to Ireland

Image of Holyhead harbour with a ferry berthed there

Holyhead’s main earner is the Stena Line ferry to Dublin that departs up to four times a day. I haven’t done it myself, but know several people who have done a day trip to Ireland from Holyhead.

The timings of the ferries are such that you can go there and back in a day, or opt for an overnight stay in Dublin.

29. Trearddur Bay

We’ve never seemed to have enough time to spend at Trearddur Bay, a fine Blue Flag beach a couple of miles from Holyhead, which is a great pity.

It’s a lovely wide, flat beach, absolutely ideal for families and kids. It’s enormous, so there’s always plenty of space for everyone.

The Trearddur Bay Hotel, which overlooks the beach and sea, is one of the best hotels on Anglesey.

The smaller, wilder Porth Dafarch beach is just up the road towards South Stack.

Map of the Top Things to do in Anglesey

image of google map showing the location of 29 Top things to do in Anglesey, North Wales.

Best Things To Do In Anglesey – Final Words

I hope my guide to the best things to do on Anglesey has helped inspire you to visit this wonderful island.

It’s one of the best places to visit in North Wales . And in Llanddwyn Island it has somewhere that should be near the top of any Wales Bucket List.

Mainland North Wales is within easy reach from Anglesey. Check out my Snowdonia road trip article for some great itineraries around North Wales’ National Park.

Anglesey is also very close to some of the best Castles in North Wales . Check out my guides to the best things to do in Caernarfon , things to do in Conwy and things to do in Harlech . These are packed with information on visiting the three World Heritage Castles in mainland North Wales.

And no visit to North Wales would be complete without visiting some of its superb beaches. Check out my guide to the best beaches in North Wales for over 30 outstanding beaches around the North Wales coast.

Be sure to check out my other guides to North Wales, one of the most beautiful areas to visit in Britain.

Best Places in North Wales

  • Best beaches in North Wales
  • Llŷn Peninsula beaches  – The Llŷn Peninsula beaches are among the best in Wales
  • Betws-y-Coed  – A picuresque Welsh mountain town in the spectacular Snowdonia National Park
  • Portmeirion  – A gorgeous Italianate village on an estuary on the North  Wales  coast
  • Barmouth Beach  – A wonderful Welsh seaside resort
  • Welsh Slate Landscape – UNESCO World Heritage Site North West Wales

Magical Anglesey – the Biggest Island in Wales

  • Anglesey beaches & coastline  – Home to some of the best beaches in the UK
  • Best walks on Anglesey  – Eight of the best Anglesey walks to help you discover more of this magnificent island.
  • Lighthouses on Anglesey  – Well worth seeing & great places for walks
  • Best things to do on Anglesey  – the largest of Welsh Islands

More Beautiful Places to visit in Wales

  • Landscapes in Wales – Breathtaking landscapes in Wales you must see
  • Rivers in Wales – Some of the most beautiful scenery in Wales
  • Lakes in Wales – Where you find some of the best views in Wales
  • Landmarks in Wales – famous places in Wales to Explore

Fun facts about Wales

  • Welsh food guide
  • Fascinating Facts about Snowdonia
  • Fun Facts about Wales

Black and white headshot of a man smiling. The photo is of David Angel the founder of Delve into Europe Travel Blog / Website

About the Author: David Angel , a Welsh photographer, writer, and historian, has over 30 years of experience exploring and photographing Wales. As former Art Director and Commissioning Editor for Visit Wales, he has explored every corner of this extraordinary country, climbed its mountains, and walked hundreds of miles along the breathtaking Welsh coastline and landscapes. He now uses a lifetime of experience to write comprehensive guides to help people like you discover and explore the best of Wales.  He is a native English speaker and fluent in Welsh.

PlanetWare.com

14 Top-Rated Things to Do in Anglesey

Written by Anietra Hamper Sep 7, 2022

The Welsh island of Anglesey is one of the most stunning places to visit in the country if you want to fit in history, beaches, the coast, wildlife, and outdoor adventures among the things to do on your travels.

Anglesey is located on Menai Strait on the northwest coast. While the island is known for its red squirrels, the United Kingdom's only native species of squirrels, it has also garnered a much-deserved reputation for its wild coastline views, hidden gardens, boating, and beaches.

South Stack Lighthouse

Anglesey also has great towns and villages that are chock-full of shops and cafés tucked between historic castles and buildings. Your entry to Anglesey from the Menai Suspension Bridge , an architectural feat, is the perfect welcome to the island, with so many adventures and tourist attractions that await you.

Spotting rare plant and animal species at the South Stack Lighthouse and the quirky finds like the Welsh village that has the longest name in Europe, are just the beginning.

As you plot your itinerary, review our list to make sure you do not miss the top things to do in Anglesey.

1. Admire the Incomplete Beauty of Beaumaris Castle

2. nature & wildlife viewing on a menai strait boat trip, 3. see rare birds and flowers at south stack lighthouse, 4. plas newydd house and gardens, 6. cross the menai suspension bridge, 7. cast a fishing line in anglesey's coastal waters, 8. trek the isle of anglesey coastal path, 9. dive into the depths of the copper kingdom, 10. take a factory tour of the anglesey sea salt company, 11. uncover the secrets in the plas cadnant hidden gardens, 12. visit anglesey sea zoo, 13. visit the village with the longest name in europe, just because, 14. go sea kayaking, map of things to do in anglesey.

Beaumaris Castle

While Beaumaris Castle is one of the must-sees while you are in Anglesey, it is an incomplete castle that was intended to be one of the grandest in Wales. The 13 th -century structure was commissioned by Edward I of Wales and his architect, James of St. George, to continue a string of impressive castles like Caernarfon, Conwy, and Harlech already under their belts.

Money to build the castle ran out, and construction stopped. While the castle never reached its full potential, you can visit to see some of the grand accomplishments the builders did make, like its perfect symmetry and design, elaborate spiral staircases, walls within walls, and a design that was considered forward-thinking at the time.

One of the best times to visit Beaumaris Castle is during a public event, like a discovery dig or a medieval festival, when you can combine a hands-on experience with time exploring the castle and grounds.

Address: Castle St, Beaumaris LL58 8AP

Official site: https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/places-to-visit/beaumaris-castle

Anglesey boat trip

Anglesey is so rich with coastal wildlife and cliffside scenery that seeing the landscape from the water on a boat tour is one of the top things to do during your visit. There are several boat operators available and a variety of trips to take. Most tours run 60 to 90 minutes.

You can set out for a leisurely sightseeing coastal trip for the chance to see local wildlife in its natural habitat, including migratory birds like puffins and playful seals, between May and July.

For those looking for a little more adventure on the water, you might want to opt for a trip to Puffin Island, with the opportunity to take a wild ride on the swells of the Menai Strait.

South Stack Lighthouse

The South Stack Lighthouse is hands-down one of the most memorable experiences in Anglesey. One step onto the cliffside vista, and you know that you are someplace special.

The South Stack Lighthouse sits on a small island off the northwest coast of Holyhead in Anglesey. It was built in 1809 at 27.7 meters (90.8 feet) high to warn ships of the jagged cliffs below. You can get tickets to take the nearly 400 steps down to the lighthouse and go inside the engine room or all the way to the top.

Everything else around the lighthouse is free and worth committing several hours to enjoy given the abundant scenery and wildlife to experience here.

The South Stack Cliffs nature preserve just above the lighthouse is run by the Royal Society of the Protection of Birds (RSPB). Spend some time in the visitor center and inside Elin's Tower for a cliffside view of the wildlife with binoculars and telescopes that are free to use. Look closely and you might spot dolphins, minke whales or a harbor porpoises out in the water.

Walk some of the cliffside paths or just sit for a while on one of the benches to look for bird species like razor bills, puffins (May-June), kittiwakes, kestrels, magpies, swallows, and peregrine falcons. Rare choughs (from the crow family) are found here, too, and there are only about 500 pairs left in the UK.

The environment around the lighthouse is unique, creating a habitat for flowers like heather and the Spathulate fleawort, the only place in the world that it grows.

Address: Holyhead LL65 1YH

Official site: https://southstack.co.uk

Plas Newydd House and Gardens

There are many spectacular gardens in Wales, but the Plas Newydd House and Gardens operated by the National Trust is a stand-out. The mansion and surrounding gardens are a nice stop for a few hours with some great views of Snowdonia in the distance.

The 18 th -century home sits on the Menai Strait. One of the reasons visitors stop here is to see the large collection of Rex Whistler works, including the expansive preserved mural. He was a regular visitor to the home in the early 20 th century.

The gardens outside behold the other great masterpieces of this property. Take your time to walk along the wooded paths through 129 acres of flowers and colors that change with the seasons. You will be treated to tulips in the spring and rhododendrons that bloom from gardens that were planted in the 1930s.

Be sure to make your way through the arboretum and the meadow bursting with summer wildflowers. Wrap up your visit in the gift shop, which sells unique garden décor and picnic essentials.

Address: Llanfairpwllgwyngyll LL61 6DQ

Official site: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/plas-newydd-house-and-garden

Anglesey beach

If visiting some of the best beaches in Anglesey tops your priority list, then you have plenty to choose from and will need to prioritize your favorites.

Llanddwyn Beach should top your beach list because there is so much more to do here than play in the water. Just getting to the beach is exciting as you go through the Newborough National Nature Reserve and Forest , which surrounds you with forest, tall dunes, and spectacular ocean. This is a great option if you plan to add other things to do into your beach day, like hiking and biking.

The crescent and soft, sandy Benllech Beach is a family-friendly beach with lots of space. In the summer, you are likely to find organized children's activities and sandcastle building competitions. There are fantastic tidal pools on this beach to explore, too.

Some of the other great Anglesey beaches include: Traeth Lligwy , a wide beach for games, with nice swimming water and easy accessibility, with parking, food, and restrooms; Traeth Crigyll , with a winding beachfront, steep dunes, and a nearby caravan park; and Porth Swtan , a Blue Flag designated beach that is ideal for bodyboarding in the surf.

Menai Suspension Bridge

It is unlikely that you'll miss this Anglesey attraction, the Menai Suspension Bridge, as you will probably drive across it on your way to the island. This historic bridge opened in 1826 and was built under the direction of Thomas Telford, famous for other notable bridges in the UK. It is also the world's first major suspension bridge .

The bridge was built as part of a plan to improve the route from London, England to Dublin, Ireland, and served as the last connection, making it a new road from Shrewsbury to Holyhead.

The engineering feat was to develop a road across the 580-feet-wide Menai Strait while still allowing tall ships to pass. You can drive across the bridge or use a pedestrian path.

One of the best views of the bridge is from below on a grassy viewing platform that you can access from Beach Road.

Fishing off Anglesey

Anglesey is surrounded by ocean and an abundance of fish species, which is why fishing on the island is a major draw. With 130 miles of coastline, there are plenty of great fishing opportunities.

Some of the common species to catch are mackerel, herring, sea bass, and coalfish. You can even target Tope from the shoreline. While summer is ideal for fishing, you can catch a wide variety of species like cod, coding, herring, and whiting in the winter.

If fishing from shore is your choice, some locations to try are Cymyran Beach, Black Point near Penmon, and in Moelfre. You can also hire a fishing operator to take you out by boat with equipment provided.

Coarse anglers can take advantage of several lakes located in Anglesey that have varying angling access and requirements.

Anglesey Coastal Path

While only hard-core hikers might travel to Anglesey just to trek the full 130-mile (220-kilometer) Anglesey Coastal Path, you can work sections of it into a regular vacation to check that box. The coastal path pretty much follows Anglesey's coastline, weaving you in and out of lush vegetation along the way.

The star of the show is the view as you are trekking on top of the cliffs. You get a prime perspective on the beaches below, alive with swimmers, paddleboarders, and vacationers relaxing under cabanas.

The Anglesey Coastal Path also takes you through farmland (be mindful of the curious cows!), wooded areas, wildflower meadows, and sand dunes.

The path has 12 designated sections, so if you want to commit a day for a planned hike, you can do that. Be advised that you are fully exposed to the elements on the cliffs, so you will want to pack plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen in your backpack.

Since you are trekking on rocky coast, you will preferably want to wear hiking boots or sturdy shoes that provide traction.

Copper Kingdom

Wales has a rich history in mining, so a visit to Copper Kingdom in the port town of Amlwch is a must-see. You will want to set aside a few hours for the full experience. Copper Kingdom preserves the history of this small fishing village that became home to the largest copper mine in the world in the 18 th and 19 th centuries.

Start your visit at the Exhibition Centre to learn about the discovery of copper in the Parys Mountain in 1768 and the stories of the miners who worked there. This is a family-friendly and interactive center.

Just outside the center, step down to the harbor, where boats are moored in the heart of the colorful, copper-infused cliffside.

Round out your visit at the Parys Mountain Copper Mine Heritage Trail . This is about two miles away and worth the additional time to visit. There is free parking, and you can take a self-guided walk along the path to see the crater of the largest open pit copper mine in the world when it was in operation.

Address: Amlwch Port, Amlwch LL68 9DB

Official site: https://copperkingdom.co.uk

Anglesey Sea Salt Company

Chances are that somewhere along the way, you've enjoyed the garnish of Halen Môn sea salt on your food, which is why taking a behind-the-scenes factory tour in Anglesey is so much fun. Here is where the sea salt magic happens.

The family-run business started by accident, when a saucepan of boiling sea water was left on the stove and crystalized into what is now the Halen Môn Sea Salt. It is now supplied to restaurants around the world and was included in the culinary scene of the 2012 Olympic games in London.

The 45-minute tours run twice daily from Wednesday through Sunday. You will learn about the history of the specialty food company, and wrap up the tour with a tutored tasting, of course. Stop by the café for lunch and through the gift shop for some sea salt to take home.

Address: Brynsiencyn, Isle of Anglesey, LL616TQ

Official site: http://www.halenmon.com

Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens

Part of the appeal of the Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens is that they are in fact, hidden. Drive the small road that leads back into a private country estate, and you'll think you are in the wrong place while having to park between grazing sheep outside the main gates.

The manicured gardens are hidden behind the stone wall. When you step inside, a dramatic sunken garden appears, with topiaries and lush flowering plants. The inspiration for the gardens was developed in 1804 by famous landscape designer Humphry Repton. The gardens were eventually abandoned but restored in 1996 to their ornate designs.

Walk the grounds to admire the waterfalls, perfectly manicured trees and shrubs, the two-acre walled garden, and colorful flower beds. A perfect way to end the visit is in the traditional tearoom, which serves homemade scones and sandwiches.

Address: Cadnant Road, Menai Bridge, Isle of Anglesey, North Wales, LL59 5NH

Official site: https://plascadnant.co.uk/2/en-GB/THE-HIDDEN-GARDENS

Jellyfish at the Anglesey Sea Zoo

A fun and educational indoor adventure for families awaits at the Anglesey Sea Zoo. It is a marine education center with a lobster hatchery, seahorse breeding program, and other conservation programs in place. There are more than 40 tanks featuring sea life from around the UK including conger eels, jellyfish, and octopuses.

There are lots of cool features to the Anglesey Sea Zoo experience, including the Meet the Aquarist talks and demonstrations; the engaging displays, like the Crashing Wave that mimics ocean tides; and the food prep room, where you can watch aquarists prepare the animals' food for the day.

Stop by the gift shop, where you can choose your own pearl oyster and watch it opened to have your own pearl to take home, or have it set into jewelry.

The conservation center also has beach clean-up programs and marine life adoption programs if you want to get more involved beyond your vacation.

Address: Brynsiencyn, Llanfairpwll LL61 6TQ

Official site: https://www.angleseyseazoo.co.uk

Village with the longest name in Europe

You might have a tough time putting the name of Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch into your GPS, but if it fits, you will love the novelty of visiting the village with the longest name in Europe.

Part two of your adventure there is trying to pronounce it with its 18 syllables.

The village, also referred to as Llanfair PG, which is easier to say, is 58 characters long. One of the best locations for seeing the name in full (because it doesn't fit on road signs) is at the train station, where it is displayed on the front of the building and a placard by the railroad tracks.

In fairness, there's not much else here to see, but adding this stop to your itinerary will add an extra bit of fun and photos to your vacation.

Sea kayaking off Anglesey

Pretty much the entire northern Welsh coast is fantastic for water sports but there's a special appeal of Anglesey for sea kayaking. The island's jagged coastline and scenery, along with its tucked away bays, make it a great place for beginners to learn.

Just beyond the bays is where experienced sea kayakers gravitate because the constantly changing tides on the exposed coastline offer a new challenge.

If you are new to the area or sea kayaking, it is best to take a guided tour, so that you feel confident about your safety on the water, and you can enjoy the scenery and wildlife around you. There are quite a few sea kayaking companies in Anglesey that offer guided trips and rent equipment.

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Wales Travel Guide

Welcome to Anglesey

With its pristine sandy beaches and ancient sites and the medieval town of Beaumaris, the Isle of Anglesey is certainly worth a visit.

FEATURED LOCATIONS

CHECK OUT THE VERY ANGLESEY HAS TO OFFER BELOW Discover Nearby Towns –   Llangollen  67 – Chester 75 –  Conwy  31 –  LLandudno  37  miles

Looking for a fun, wild or relaxing activity Anglesey break?

Are you looking for a great holiday experience filled with adventure and excitement? Look no further than Anglesey, where we offer a wide range of accommodations and activities to suit every taste and budget.

Our holiday cottages provide the perfect retreat for those seeking a cozy and comfortable stay. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, our cottages offer a unique blend of comfort and relaxation, nestled in the beautiful surroundings of Anglesey.

If self-catering is more your style, we have a range of options to suit all tastes and requirements. From small, budget-friendly apartments to luxurious, spacious villas, our self-catering options provide the perfect home away from home, with all the amenities you need to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.

For those who prefer a more traditional approach, we offer a range of B&B and hotel accommodations to suit all budgets. Whether you’re looking for a quaint and cozy bed and breakfast, or a luxurious five-star hotel, we have something to suit every taste and budget.

But that’s not all – we also offer a wide range of exciting activities and challenges to get your adrenaline pumping! Our kayaking tours take you on a thrilling journey through the stunning coastlines and hidden coves of Anglesey, while our cliff hanging experiences offer a heart-stopping challenge for the adventurous.

If fishing is more your thing, we offer a variety of options for all skill levels – from beginner’s courses to advanced expeditions. Our golf courses offer a challenging yet relaxing way to spend your days, while our motor-racing experiences give you the chance to feel the thrill of the track.

And if shooting is your passion, we have a range of options to suit all levels – from clay pigeon shooting to game hunting, we have something to satisfy every shooter’s appetite.

So whether you’re looking for a relaxing break in beautiful surroundings, or an action-packed adventure holiday, Anglesey has everything you need to make your stay unforgettable. Contact us today to find out more about our range of accommodations and activities, and start planning your perfect holiday today!

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  1. Welcome to Anglesey

    By which we mean that the deeper you look, the more you will find. We're a small island with a big, boundless personality. A proper island too, not an offshoot of Wales, with our own strong identity, atmosphere, culture and community spirit. There are endless experiences here, far more than our size suggests. That's what this website is all ...

  2. Home Page

    Welcome | Croeso. Discover Anglesey for yourself with its outstanding natural beauty, quality accommodation, delicious dining, fun filled attractions and adventures - you are guaranteed a warm welcome.. There is such a lot to discover on Anglesey with its rich heritage and culture, Jurassic landscapes and vast array of flora and fauna, with much of the coastline declared an Area of Outstanding ...

  3. The Isle of Anglesey

    The Isle of Anglesey. A place of unparalleled beauty and amazing adventures, Anglesey is an historic island full of character. A place that inspires and appeals to all the senses. Discover a fantastic programme of festivals celebrating local food, music, culture and unique heritage.

  4. Top 10 things to do in Anglesey

    There are countless places worth visiting along the 140 mile/225km Anglesey Coast Path.It goes right round the island. The Friends of the Isle of Anglesey Coast Path website has handy maps and detailed descriptions of the path's 12 sections.. As well as skirting the spectacular coastline, the path passes through farmland, coastal heath, dunes and small pockets of woodland.

  5. Explore Anglesey

    The Isle of Anglesey has got the lot. Its coastline is as varied as it is spectacular - it has everything in its 125 miles. Discover beaches and cliffs, tiny fishing coves and busy ports. Learn about shipwrecks and tales of derring-do, legends of Princes and Princesses, and tragic lovers. Anglesey's colourful history is on show, too.

  6. 29 BEST Things To Do in Anglesey [2024 Guide]

    22. Trot your way around Anglesey from Anglesey Riding Centre. Join Chester, Diego, Daisy, and Kiwi (those are horses by the way) to experience the joy of Anglesey on four legs instead of two. Anglesey Riding Centre offers the chance to trot your way around the island as part of a horse riding tour.

  7. 25 Best Things To Do on Anglesey Island, Wales

    2. Church Island. One of the most worthwhile things to do on Anglesey is discover the many small islands surrounding it. One of these is Church Island, a tiny speck of land near Menai Bridge. Church Island measures 2 acres in size and has a small church and a memorial to soldiers lost to WWI and WWII.

  8. Independent spirit: exploring Anglesey AONB

    Exploring Anglesey. With standing stones, ancient burial mounds, the remains of a booming copper mine, a World Heritage listed castle and two grand Victorian bridges, history really comes to life on Anglesey. It's beautiful too, with lovely coastal landscapes. The Isle of Anglesey, once called the Mother of Wales, has bags of character.

  9. 12 BEST Places To Visit in Anglesey, North Wales

    11. Cemaes Bay. Cemaes Bay. Nearby Porthwen Brickworks you'll also find Cemaes Bay, another of the best places on Anglesey, a lovely harbour village with unspoilt beaches and unmissable walkways along the dramatic cliffsides of the Wales Coastal Path, offering a variety of things to do in Anglesey. 12.

  10. Anglesey 2024: All You Need to Know Before You Go

    About Anglesey. Prehistoric stone markers and monuments dot the landscape of the Isle of Anglesey, serving as stately beacons to visitors. The beaches of Rhosneigr are great for surfing, fishing and diving. The dunes and pebbly shores of Broad Beach span from the village all the way to the Barclodiad y Gawres neolithinc burial chamber.

  11. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Anglesey

    4. Plas Newydd House and Garden. 1,306. Historic Sites. Home of the Marquess of Anglesey, with spectacular views of Snowdonia.Set on the shores of the Menai Strait amidst breathtakingly beautiful scenery, this elegant house was redesigned by James Wyatt in the 18th century. The 1930s restyled interior is famous for its Rex Whistler association ...

  12. How to spend a perfect weekend in Anglesey

    Start your first full day in Anglesey bright and early with a walk along one of its best beaches. Newborough Beach is a long, dune-backed stretch of white sand that dusts the island's southwestern corner, with dramatic vistas of Snowdonia mountain range visible from across the strait. Visitors can pay to park at the Government-run beachside ...

  13. Anglesey

    Anglesey. Anglesey, just off the coast of northwestern Wales, is the largest island off southern Great Britain at 276 sq mi (714 km²). Well worth a stop when travelling between the UK and Ireland, and in its own right, Ynys Môn has a dramatic coastline, historical sights, and is a stronghold for the Welsh language .

  14. Best Places to Visit in Anglesey

    Bryn Celli Ddu Burial Chamber | This is one of Anglesey's most famous prehistoric landmarks that date back to 3000BC. The name Bryn Celli Ddu means the 'Mound in the Dark Grove' in English. This is free to visit and is a short 15-minute walk away from the car park.

  15. 30 Best Things To Do In Anglesey Wales

    South Stack lighthouse. The area around South Stack cliffs is rich in history, with the Holyhead Mountain Hut Circles - the remains of an Iron Age village - across the road from the car park, and one of the best Anglesey walks takes you to the summit of Holyhead mountain from there. 5. Anglesey Sea Zoo.

  16. 14 Top-Rated Things to Do in Anglesey

    20 Top Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Cardiff. 11 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Swansea. 14 Top-Rated Things to Do in Anglesey. ... There are lots of cool features to the Anglesey Sea Zoo experience, including the Meet the Aquarist talks and demonstrations; the engaging displays, like the Crashing Wave that mimics ocean tides; and ...

  17. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Anglesey

    We certainly found it enlightening and interesting - well worth a visit. 4. Plas Newydd House and Garden. Home of the Marquess of Anglesey, with spectacular views of Snowdonia.Set on the shores of the Menai Strait amidst breathtakingly beautiful scenery, this elegant house was redesigned by James Wyatt in the 18th century.

  18. 7 Best Towns and Villages To Visit in Anglesey

    Many of the picturesque towns and villages are overflowing with character and historical treasures. In this article, we'll take a look at 7 of the best towns and villages on Anglesey and what you can do there. 1. Beaumaris. The delightful town of Beaumaris has a lot to offer with various activities to last an entire day.

  19. Top 10 BEST things to do in Anglesey, RANKED

    So walking the Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path is one of the best things to do in Anglesey. This 225 km (140 mi) path can be taken as a whole or in sections, so all types of walkers can take in all the island's characteristics. Address: Holyhead LL65 1HG, United Kingdom. 2. Llanddwyn Island - an island off an island.

  20. Homepage

    GoAnglesey.com specialises in guiding you through the planning of your visit using our local knowledge of contacts including accommodation, activities, restaurants, towns, beaches, etc. Keep up to date with Local News, Events & Activities in Anglesey by visiting our Blog. To get listed on this site click here.

  21. Visitors

    Visit Anglesey. Anglesey's Tourism website. Isle of Anglesey County Council. Council Offices Llangefni Anglesey LL77 7TW Tel: (01248) 750057. ... and statistics cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website by collecting and reporting information anonymously. Analytical Cookies No.