The Isle of Anglesey is a hidden gem in the Welsh country that is often given a skip by the standard visitor to Wales. This island situated off the mainland’s northwest coast, is independent, historic and full of character.
A visit to this island will be made memorable by leisurely half-hour drives to three beautiful places from Llangefni making it an awesome day-trip.
1. South Stack Lighthouse and Cliffs
The first location is “South Stack Lighthouse and Cliffs” – situated off the northwest coast of Anglesey. The lighthouse was originally built to warn ships of the dangerous rocks below. It can be reached by going down 400 steps on the steep mainland cliffs. This also provides an opportunity to see many nesting birds that line the cliffs. It is indeed a spectacular view to see the waves of the turbulent sea crashing on the large granite cliffs that rise to about 60 metres! A bit of adventurous hiking and a feast for your eyes!
2. The Copper Kingdom
The second location is The Copper Kingdom – another off-the-beaten-track area of Amlwch in Anglesey which once had the largest copper mine in the world. Amlwch is situated on the north coast of the Isle of Anglesey, on the A5025 which connects it to Holyhead and to Menai Bridge.
The Copper Kingdom centre on the amazing turquoise colored quayside of the picturesque Amlwch port has a family friendly center and is not to be missed. There is adequate parking and it has a lovely café at the Sail Loft.
3. Beaumaris Castle
The third location is “Beaumaris Castle” – that sits on the edge of the Anglesey Isle Bay at the east end and provides one of the most beautiful scenic lookouts overlooking mountains and the sea. Although it is an unfinished castle, it has impressive architecture and is surrounded by water filled moat. There are narrow stairs leading to the towers and the views from the top are absolutely stunning.
Beaumaris Castle is well preserved and you could spend hours walking through it. In addition, you can enjoy a short movie about the history of the castle inside the castle cinema.
Finally, this 13th century structure is also an official UNESCO world heritage site!
Beautiful scenery, thank you.
Anglesey is indeed a gem, in fact all of that north Wales coastline is just so picturesque! It’s a long time since I’ve visited, I might just plan a return trip – it’s a perfect weekend getaway!
Can’t wait to go here – Anglesey is high on my list
My husband and I were just saying we need to go to Wales because it’s the one part of the UK we haven’t been to yet. That scenery looks absolutely stunning.
I haven’t visited Wales for about 20 years and it is so close!! Your blog reminded me of what delights I have in my own country.
We visited Cardiff and can’t wait to return Wales to explore more beautiful Spots just like this!
A lighthouse and a castle — two of my favorite things! Wales has so much charm. I’ve been once and would love to go back. And I would certainly want to go to Anglesey!
Love this type of rugged coastline, it looks similar to Cornwall further down the coast. It looks like an interesting area to discover .. I especially like the idea of exploring the area near the lighthouse. I bet there’s some brilliant sketching and watercolor opportunities when the sky and sea are right, especially with all of the wildlife there.
Oh, I would love to visit Wales. I’ve been to Scotland and loved it, but I want to get back to spend more time in Wales and England. Thanks for sharing about these spots.
I keep coming back to your posts about Wales, I think I have read them all at least twice. I have kind of fallen in love with the idea of visiting Wales, I just have to make room on the bucket list 😛
Wales is so pretty! It is definitely a place I want to revisit since the last time I was there, I was a kid! Looks like Anglesey is worth the detour. 🙂
My mom and I rented a car and spent a week exploring Wales a couple of years back. We loved every second of the trip, and now, after reading your article, I want to go back and visit the places like this that we missed.
This is great! I love exploring castles!
I love castles and probably would spend hours exploring Beaumaris Castle. I’ve never been to a real picture and your pictures bring it to life. The lighthouse looks beautiful too! How old is it?
What a beautiful landscape. I wish I could visit Wales this year as planned but I dont think it will be possible. Will have to be satisfied with virtual travel through your stories.
I never really had Wales on my radar. But lately I have read a lot of posts about Wales and it is sure on the list now. Anglesey certainly looks like a spot with lots to see and do for a day trip. We would certainly want to go up in the Beuamaris Castle for some great views out over the countryside. Yet another UNESCO site for our list.
The Isle of Anglesey truly looks amazing. I love the mysterious antique Beaumaris castle. The older I get, the more I appreciate historical sites—very scenic and beautiful pictures.
We have been to Wales before but really only did Cardiff. I really want to return and explore the entire west coast and the Isle of Anglesey looks amazing! I know for a fact that we would want to check out the South Stack Lighthouse and Cliffs and the Beaumaris Castle! We love castles in the United Kingdom for sure!
I haven’t made it to Wales yet, but the Isle of Anglesey seems like the perfect destination for a drive. Beaumaris Castle would be a must for me as would visiting the lighthouse and cliffs. It looks like such a beautiful area.
Wales seems a promising place. I believe many English castles are surrounded by water or have a moat-like Beaumaris Castle. This was basically done for protecting the castle during the old days from the invasion. This seems like a peaceful place, where nature and history lovers can spend their whole day constructively.