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25 Best Things To Do on Anglesey Island, Wales

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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

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.

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 .

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

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

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 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)

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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 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.

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

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

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.

Thanks for reading!

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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!

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!

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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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The 30 best things to do in Anglesey Wales

• David Angel
• Wales , United Kingdom

About the author: David Angel , is a Welsh photographer, writer, and historian with 30+ years of experience, and previously Art Director for Visit Wales. His work is regularly featured in the BBC, the Guardian, and Condé Nast Traveler. He is fluent in English and Welsh.

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.

Why Visit Anglesey

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.

30 Best things to do in Anglesey

1. beaumaris castle.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.