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Anglesey Outdoors

Anglesey Outdoors is on the South West coast of Anglesey, just off the road from Holyhead to Porth Dafarch. A Fantastic location sat within its own 14 acres of ground and only 5 minutes walk from the closest beach.

Choose your level of comfort by staying in the onsite accommodation or bring your own, its your call. Anglesey Outdoors really does have all options covered, a lot more besides too (tried and tested).

The main building can accommodate various group sizes from 1,2,3,5 up to 10 if needed. There are dorm style rooms complete with en suites, if you’re travelling alone there’s an open dorm with bunk beds at minimal cost. Just bring your own sleeping bag and you are sorted.

Spread across the site there are other forms of accommodation such as Cabans, Eco Dens, Yurts and Pods. Moreover there is also room for caravans and tents too, the natural landscape helps offer a bit of seclusion by separating the different parts.

The entire place can be hired out if needed, it happens quite regular by group’s and schools. For a good reason too, Anglesey Outdoors offers a selection of outdoor courses which are available to all.

Coasteering, paddleboarding, rock climbing are all available to anyone one staying or not (for a charge of course). The guides who lead the courses are great, most of which live on the centre year round. Moreover this helps them know the local area like the back of their hands, which makes them safe hands to be in.

Porth Dafarch is only 5 mins walk away, a safely tucked in cove offering shelter from the wind. Ideal for learning to paddleboard, this also make the area a popular launching spot with Kayakers.

Literally everything you need is onsite to make your stay as comfortable. Drying rooms and showers are right outside to main building should you need them.

After a hard day scouring the sea by kayak or doing a bit of adventurous coastering it’s time to relax. Where better than “The Paddlers Return” a great little onsite bar with indoor and outdoor seating. Beer and generous meals are available at reasonable prices too, a pool table too if you fancy it. The boating theme helps add to the ambiance of the building, you can also learn a lot about the local history from the walls.

There are plenty of things that make Anglesey Outdoors stand out, the staff are definitely the first. From meet and great to general interaction they are amazing, coupled with a fantastic location with everything you need to have a memorable trip. Check them out.

Oh, and if you fancy a dip after all your adventures there is a wood fired hot tub available at £25 per hour. Seating up to 12 there is plenty of room for all the family or group.

Close to Trearddur Bay, South Stack, Holyhead and the only retail park on the island. Yet it still feels your are far from civilisation. Tried and tested

Anglesey Outdoors can be found here

Porthdafarch Rd, Holyhead LL65 2LP

For further information and bookings please visit https://www.angleseyoutdoors.com/
Dolphins

Anglesey Dolphins – there are two main types of Porpoise that regularly visit the islands coast. These are the Harbour Porpoise and the Bottlenose Dolphin.

Harbour Porpoise are true to their name, they stick to shallower waters closer to the shore. They prefer coolers water, often inhabiting harbours and outer estuary areas. These are the smallest porpoise in European waters, only reaching about up to around 1.5 metres in length. They do not breach from the sea on a regular basis like other species and often stay clear of boats. You will however spot them easily enough as their backs and small triangular dorsal fins clear the water.

Bottlenose Dolphins are very different from their Harbouse Porpoise cousins. They will often fully breach the water giving great displays. They are a very curious and intelligent mammals. Moreover they will often approach boats to check them and their occupants and will, when playful travel in the boats wake. The Bottlenose Dolphin grow up to around 4 metres in length and are identifiable by there more sickle shaped dorsal fin. The UK biggest pod of these dolphins lives to the south of Anglesey in Cardigan Bay.

As well as porpoise there are other marine animal that regularly visit the coasts of Anglesey such the Minke Whale, these can grow up to 10 metres in length. Though these are usually seen further out from shore by the boats.

Several species of turtle visit the coastline in search food like jellyfish in summer. Seals also have colonies around the island and are commonly seen around the coastal path. Oh and last but not least, two killer Whales were spotted off South Stack in June 2018, part of a pod that live around the Hebrides in Scotland.

What will you see?
Porth Dafarch

Porth Dafarch is located between Trearrdur Bay and South Stack on the coastal road. It is a national Trust owned beach with both on and off road parking. Moreover it has toilets which always a bonus on such a remote beach.

A cracking little beach which is very popular in the summer months with tourists and people using kayaks. Due to its sheltered nature it is very often used by kayak as a safe launching and landing point though out the entire year, with suitable weather of course. Just further out into the bay divers also frequent these sheltered waters as the area is full of marine life, there are also several wrecks just off the coast.

Anglers can also be seen on occasion from the rocky outcrops. Just around the bay is an area known as mackerel rock, made famous by its regular catches of Mackerel

The beach itself offers nice soft sand to the rear with plenty of rock pools around for the kids to explore. Fish, crabs, prawns, anemone can all be found here. It’s not too far from Trearddur bay which has shops and restaurants should you need them.

The headlands around the beach are often used by coasteering groups, there are several companies offering this activity. Anglesey outdoors is perfectly placed just around the corner, they offers others courses too. Great for active familys or as an experience in itself, however jumping from cliffs into the sea wont suit everyones tastes!

Further west is South Stack, Holyhead mountain and the visible remains of Neolithic round houses. So plenty to see and do in the area.

Just around the corner is Anglesey Outdoors, you can stay on site in the various accommodation on offer. Dorms, camping or glamping it caters for all styles and budgets. Moreover they offer various activities with trained guides for schools, groups or individuals.

Porth Dafarch is a very popular beach in all seasons, well worth checking out. A real memory maker, moreover like a lot of beaches around Anglesey it is simply stunning when the sun shines.

Porth Dafarch beach can be found here Porthdafarch Rd, Holyhead LL65 2LS

Closest Toilets are directly behind the beach 15 March – 30 September only.

Dog are not allowed on the beach from the 1st May until 30th September.
Holyhead Mountain

Holyhead Mountain is the highest mountain on Holy Island and Anglesey, its peak reaches 220 metres or 720 feet. Moreover it has a diverse ecology as well as several sites of historical significance. Though officially its not classed a mountain.

An ideal location for a ramble! Numerous paths navigate around or over the mountain taking in different abilities, each one has its own merits. There are several parking areas on different sides of the mountain for you to choose, allowing to get closer to the areas you would like to see.

Given its size there really is so much to see around the mountain. Central paths towards the summit have a broad range of wildlife, including snakes and lizards! The coastal paths offer fantastic views out to sea, chances of seeing seals are high. Dolphins and Harbour Porpoise are also seen around this section of coast. As the weather warms up you may even see a basking sharks in the area.

Historical sites or feature points are dotted around the mountain too, North Stack and its cove full of seals are great to watch, further more South Stack is a haven for sea birds. The nest sites dot the cliffs from April to July with thousand of birds. Puffins nest in the area and the rare Chough is found in its highest numbers across Wales.

I suppose the bucket list item is to walk up to the summit. From here you can almost see across the entire island, Ireland is visible on clearer days.

There are climbers that regularly attempt to sheer south facing side of the mountain, it looks fun but its not to every ones tastes! The mountain is also a great place to bring your dogs, there is tons of space and miles of path ways. Just be careful on the summit as they like to run around, dog forget to bag it and bin it too.

Close to the summit are the remains of an old roman watchtower known as
Caer y Twr, beleived to sit within the remains of an Iron Age hillfort. There are also remains of stone circle huts in the vacinity. It is believed these date from around the 3rd century.

On the South West coast of the mountain is South Stack and its RSPB visitors centre complete with cafe and toilets. Home to huge colonies of birds, moreover, you can watch these from Ellins Tower. You may even get a glimpse of the resident Peregrine falcons. On the approach to the visistors centre you will see a small carpark on your left. Park here and just across the road you will find Ty Mawr, a collection of stone hut circles around 2000 years old.

Parking can be found at RSPB Visitor centre, Holyhead LL65 1YH (here is best)

Or

Breakwater Country Park, Holyhead, LL65 1YG LL65 1YG

Whats on your list? Get out and find it!

The closest toilets are at the Holyhead Breakwater Country Park LL65 1YG or the RSPB building at South Stack.
Puffin Island

Puffin Island is a little jewel just off the North East coast of Anglesey. It is at the northerly starting point of the Menai Strait and is a haven for wildlife. Regular boat trips depart from Beaumaris for this very reason.

St Seiriol had monastery here in the 6th century which is still just visible on the top of the island today, he was closely linked with Penmon Priory.

These days it is only wildlife that live on the island, it is currently a bird sanctuary. Comorants, Shags and the Altantic Grey Seals are residents here year round and they can be seen in high numbers from the cruise boats. During the breeding season which is around April – July there are many other species on the island. Outside of this period alot of these breeding birds will remain out to sea. Razorbills, Guillemot, Kittiwakes and Puffins are some of the these regular visitors.

Unfortunately and accidentally rats were introduced to Puffin island and the Puffin colony was decimated, with the rats feeding on the breeding Puffins eggs and chicks. Moreover following this accidental introduction a program to remove the rats has now been completed and the islands bird populations have bounced back. However there are still only very small numbers of puffins returning during the breeding season, fingers crossed this will increase again with time.

The waters around the island are rich in marine life, providing a source of food for the nesting birds and seals that call the island home. Puffin Island is also frequented by Harbour Porpoise and Bottlenose Dolphins, great to watch if you are lucky enough to see them. The waters provide plentiful bounties of food hence they frequent the area. Particularly true in summer when the large shoals of Mackerel move into the area. These in turn are hunting the fish fry or white bait and Sand Eels as the great circle of life continues around us.

You are no longer allowed on Puffin Island, the closest you can get is by boat. It is also popular with small boats and kayaks who fish in the area or come to see the wildlife. There are two companies operating out of Beaumaris that provide pleasure cruises to the island at resonable prices too, for the more adventurous there are fast Rib rides to see the island.

Tried and tested, could not stop grinning!

Top tip – If you head for Penmon Point with a good zoom camera or binoculars you can get a good view. At times none are needed as seals and dolphins may come quite close to the shoreline. Moreover its also good to spot to try fishing for Mackerel, great for a bbq tea.
Newborough Forest Warren

Newborough Forest is a large pine forest on the south coast of Anglesey, home to the rare Red Squirrel. The forest starts as a back drop to the beaches of Newborough and Malltraeth, rising from the sea and heading inland. The forest is managed by Natural Reources Wales.

Newborough forest is in an area that is simply stunning, the forest is a way to get away from it all. Miles of paths meander through the trees, at times you may not come across another soul. It’s one of the largest forests in Wales, the only one with a large number of rare Red Squirrels too.

Newborough has lots of meandering paths, its not just great for walking but other activities too. The opportunities for getting out and exploring on your bike are awesome, the path ways are well maintained. Moreover it’s also quite popular with horse riding enthusiasts, it has more that enough room for everyone.

There is a large car park complete with toilets and usually an Ice cream van. £5 for the full day, this is payable at the entrance via Newborough village.

A great place to get out and explore with beaches and Llanddwyn Island close by moreover a chance to see rare Red Squirrels.

Parking at a cost can be found at LL61 6SG
Peregrine Falcon

Peregrine Falcons are just one of the special bird species that call Anglesey home. These fantastic birds are amazing in every way, bold, beautiful and have a special skill.

The Peregrine Falcon is the king when it comes to speed, they are the fastest bird on the planet. Tucking their wings in they able to reach speeds of up to 240mph in a dive. 40mph faster than the second fastest bird on the speed list. It is also the largest Falcon in the UK reaching a wing span of 74cm – 120cm, which is quite a formidable size.

These fabulous birds of prey call Anglesey home year round, they nest in high structures whether man made or natural. We were lucky enough to see one diving down past us on the Britannia Bridge during summer.

A great place to try and spot one are the high sea cliffs of South Stack, an RSPB managed area. There is a Cafe, toilets and viewing area at the site too.

Parking charges have been recently introduced at the site but they are fairly reasonable. Not only home to the Peregrine Falcon but also rare choughs call the area home. In the summer months you can also see Puffins nesting on South Stack cliffs.
Llanddwyn Island

Llanddwyn Island, what a place this is. Located on the stunning south coast of Anglesey, a rocky volcanic outcrop surrounded by the most stunning scenery. Moreover, the island is also steeped in history and folklore of ages past.

To the east are the mountains of the Snowdonian range, to the south the rocky Hills of the Lynn Peninsula. West is the vast expanse of Malltraeth Bay with its long sandy beach, to the north the Pine forest of Newborough (Home to red Squirrels). Best views on Anglesey and dare I say, top 5 in the UK?

Access to the island is easy, just walk onto it. It is a tidal island so can become cutoff on bigger high tide, only for an hour or so. In summer it’s shoes and socks off as you wade through the clear water, winter it’s wellies or arrive as the tide recedes.

Oh, and the rocks you see before walking onto the island? These were formed around 500 million years ago by Lava erupting from the sea bed!

As you make you way across the island, keep an eye out for the wild ponies, their grazing helps manage the local fauna. Some can be quite inquisitive and will even come and check you out.

As you walk towards the end, you will soon come across the ruins of the old church / chapel. St Dwynwen’s Church to be exact, the Patron Saint of Lovers. There are several variations of the legend but all end the same, she was cured of her love burden. It was a pilgrimage site during the middle ages and became quite wealthy from it.

As you approach the end of the island you will find the old pilots cottages, the rnli of old. Take a peek inside the windows, one is a museum. If you are lucky you may spot a lizard or two on the wall outside, basking in the sun.

There is an old lighthouse on the end signalling the start of the Menai Strait. A similar but smaller building is guidance for the pilots cove.

The sea around the island is a Mecca for wildlife, above and below the waterline. Seals can be seen quite regular around the island, dolphins or harbour porpoise frequent the area too.

If you plan on hitting the beaches there are many little coves, either sandy or shingle. There is always one or two that are sheltered from any winds.

It takes around 40 minutes to get to the end of the island from the nearest parking spot, thats walking at a decent pace.. The national trust car park at Newborough forest has toilets, showers and usually an ice cream or burger van. It’s a short drive from Newborough through the Red Squirrel Pine forest.

If there is one place you have to visit on Anglesey, this is it. You will definitely be back again, the pictures just don’t do it justice.

Parking at cost can be found here LL61 6SG
Anglesey Model Village

Anglesey Model Village is located on the East coast of Anglesey, close to Newborough and several other local attractions. Ideally placed on the main road yet surrounded by green pastures. It was originally opened in 1992 but closed in 2016 when the owners retired.

It’s great to see it back open again, having been closed for some time it has been recently taken over by new owners, they are currently working hard to bring the site back to its former glory. The model village is now open as of 01/01/19, with more models in construction, moreover it has a brand new cafe with indoor and outdoor seating areas.

The parking area has been given a great makeover and there is now a maze for the kids to play in by the outdoor seating area. It should keep them entertained for a bit while you have a brew and some cake.

Inside there are models of local landmarks as well as other interesting little features which the younger children will love. A meandering path weaves around the site, letting you take in the models one at a time.

Anglesey Model village is definitely one for the families with younger kids or a great location to pop in for quick snack. You can also use the car park for the famous stepping stones, always use the cafe out of courtesy though.

You can find it here

Anglesey Model Village

Newborough

Llanfairpwllgwyngyll

Anglesey

LL61 6RS

For further information on Anglesey Model Village please visit http://www.angleseymodelvillage.co.uk/

Nearby attractions:

Anglesey Sea Zoo

Halen Mon, Anglesey Sea salt

Newborough Beach

Newborough Warren

Llanddwyn Island
Aberlleiniog Castle

Aberlleiniog Castle or the remains of it are located on the east coast of Anglesey, close to the village of Llandoed.

It is a Motte and Bailey style fortress which was constructed between 1080 and 1099. It was built by Hugh d’Avranches, who was the 1st Earl of Chester. He was also known as Hugh the Fat and Hugh the Wolf. For a period of time he ruled over most of north Wales including Anglesey but lost it in 1094 in a welsh revolt.

Aberlleiniog Castle is quite small in stature, almost quaint in its size. It sits on top of a small hill surrounded by woodlands, there is a river running to the rear. The walk to the castle is well worth it in itself, a great place to take the dogs for a walk through the woodlands.

To get to Aberlleiniog Castle park at the little car park next to the Menai. Head towards Penmon Point and you can miss it. Simply follow the signposted path way to the castle.

Closest toilets are in Beaumaris next to the castle LL58 8AL and behind the Neptune chippy on the main road through town.
Din Lligwy

Din Lligwy has visible boundaries around the site and the remains of the hut circle house are in good condition. Looking around you can easily see all the remains and almost imagine how it would have looked. If you were to walk round an outdoor museum this is how it should look (in theory). It truly is a remarkable piece of history.

Infact its one of 3 in close proximity to each other. Lligwy Cromlech is a late neolithic burial chamber that is only a short walk away. You also have the remains of Capel Lligwy which are the remains of a 12th century chapel which you must walk past.

Din Lligwy sits just out side of Moelfre and close to the Anglesey Coastal Path. The area seems steeped in history over different milennia. Din Lliwy the remains of an ancient village which is remarkably well preserved given its age.

It’s widely believed that Din Lligwy held high significance in the local area. Iron working and smithing are to have been it’s primary purpose. Sections of the site may well have been of Iron age origin and expanded.

Archaeological excavation took place at Din Lligwy between 1905 -1907. Broken pot shards were excavated and dated to the 3rd and 4th centuries. Moreover animal bones were also discovered some of which were made into tools. One may have been a musical instrument at some point.

If you love your history then don’t miss this gem of a place. Don’t forget to check out the other two spots nearby.

Closest toilets are in the main car park in Moelfre. LL72 8HD, 15 March – 30 September.
White Beach

White beach or Traeth Gwyn is located on the north east coast of Anglesey.

White beach is not your typical sandy beach and has a similar makeup to Penmon’s shelving pebbles. It does share the same North East section of the coast and it can be seen in the distance to the east.

Though the two areas have a similar type of beach the surrounding areas are very different indeed. White Beach is backed by steep cliffs, the top of which have outstanding views of the area. This high back gives amazing shelter from any southerly winds and can increase the temperature on warm days. From the parking are down to the beach the walk is along a dirt track with some great views along the way. The path may not be suitable for all as it is steep in places.

The water around White beach is relatively safe for some light paddling and due to its pebble makeup, it can be very clear at times. It is also a well known area for sea fishing with Mackerel being caught from the local rocks in summer.

Due to its location it is usually a quiet beach as the area very remote. Moreover getting to the beach involves either a long walk or being lucky enough to get a parking spot. Its best to get their early or late. The single track road down to the parking are is a tight fit. There are only 2 passing areas that are a large distance apart. Its definitely something to be aware of especially in the peak of holiday season or if you’re in a large vehicle.

Don’t let the access to the parking area. White Beach is an amazing place and is simply stunning on sunny days. Its far more peaceful, calmer and tranquil than some of the busier beaches on Anglesey in Summer. The landscape is great and you can take a stroll along the hilltops should you fancy it.

The closest toilets are on Llanddona Beach LL58 8UW, 15 March – 30 September only.