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
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!
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?
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:
1. Menai Bridge
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.
2. Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch
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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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.
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.
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
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!
6. South Stack Lighthouse
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
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
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
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
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!