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Barclodiad y Gawres

Barclodiad y Gawres in Anglesey is an ancient site, it is an actual Neolithic burial chamber dating back over 4-5000 years! Neolithic denotes the era towards the end of the stone age. That’s around the time the pyramids were being built in Egypt. Significantly large stones were used in its construction, no easy feat to get them to the site location.

The sites name means “Giantess’s apronful” this centers around the local story of how the chamber was created. Tired giants not wanting to travel after their apron strings upped, droppi their stones to create the mound.

The site was excavated in the early 50’s with some great items unearthed. The remains of two charred / cremated male bodies were in one of the larger internal chambers. Moreover it was customary at the time to cremate bodies, this is evidence of that. In the central section a fire was used to put out using an unusual mixture of items. Possibly a stew or a witches brew, we will never know. It contained a mixture of Wrasse, eels, snakes, frogs and other small animals. The bones of which preserved by a covering of Limpet shells otherwise they would have long since decomposed.

Internal Stone carvings

Following the excavation, parts including the roof were extensively rebuilt to preserve the site. The original cob stones of the chamber gradually taken by the local population. The stones were easy and free building material during the 18th century.

The stones that line the walls of the chamber carved with intricate diamond shapes. Serpentine and chevron shapes also adorn the stones inside. There are similar carvings near by in the burial chamber Bryn Celli Ddu. Ireland also has several sites similar to Barclodiad Y Gawres and they have similar markings. Other sites in Brittany and Spain have similar markings on chamber stones.

Access is available by prior booking with a key holder due to previous acts of vandalism at the site. Information is available at the site on the information boards. Parking is at Cable Bay which Barclodiad y Gawres sits above on a rocky outcrop. Pay and display charges are in effect but it’s not too expensive.

You can find Barclodiad y Cadres at Ty Croes LL63 5TE

Bryn Celli Ddu is a similarly remarkable chamber that’s located on the East coast of Anglesey. The entrance and exit are perfectly in symmetry with the summer solstice too.

Closest toilets are on the car park behind the beach at Tyn Tywyn but they are not always open. Rhosneigr library car park does have public toilets with a 20p charge. LL64 5YJ
Cwyfan Church

Cwyfan Church is often referred to as the Church in the sea. It is located just south of Anglesey Circuit and is accessed via the town of Aberffraw to the east.

Cwyfan Church sits in the middle of the tiny island known as Cribinau. Building work on the original church started during the 12th century and largely reconstructed in the 14th. Moreover the random positioning of the church is due to coastal erosion, the sea washing the land away around the church. It originally sat on the end of a peninsula with the land around it eroding over the years.

A local architect raised the funds to refurbish the church in 1893. The sea wall around Cwyfan to maintain the ground integrity as the graves began to fall into the sea. Cwyfan church itself was almost a ruin prior to the restoration work. Access at this time was by a small causeway that was cutoff on higher tides, the remains of which are still visible today.

There are several flat grave markers around Cwyfan dating back to the 1700’s and possibly older. Nature has taken it toll on the grave stones as some are now difficult to read.

A short walk at low tide across the beach will get you to the rocky causeway and up the steps. Keep your eye on the tide and you will be fine. The tide takes around 6 hours to go out then a further 6 hours to come back in.

Limited parking is available close by at the end of the lane above the beach. 10-12 cars can fit in at the side of the road if parked well. Get here early for a spot and face your car the way you came (helps get you out quicker as space is tight when the parking area is full). The road down is mostly single a track too with minimal passing points.

Cwyfan Church is a tranquil spot to reflect and take in your surroundings. Try parking and walking round the coastal path from Aberffraw village if its busy. There is usually plenty of spce here near the bridge. The scenery around Cwyfan really sets the tone and is great for photography. There is minimal light pollution in the area due its remote location. Moreover this it great for shots of the clear night sky when stars and the Milky Way are visible.

Its one place you must see another and another of Angleseys of hidden gems.

You can find Cwyfan Church at Ty Croes LL63 5YR

Closest toilets are on the car park behind the beach at Tyn Tywyn but they are not always open. Rhosneigr library car park does have public toilets with a 20p charge. LL64 5YJ
Anglesey Seals

Atlantic Grey Seals are a regular sight in the Irish Sea around Anglesey, moreover there are multiple little colonies around the island. The island provides the perfect habitat for them with an abundance of food. Rocky coves and secluded inlets and islands allow them to live and breed in relative piece.

Playful Seals

There are several hotspots around Anglesey where you can watch them as they laze around on the rocks and beaches. The Anglesey Coastal path will bring you into close proximity to where the seals live, they can be seen from any section the path in their search for food. Moreover Summer or winter they are on the island year round, they can literally popup at any time.

The seals generally start to give birth to their pups in September through to December. The pups are born fluffy and yellow like baby chickens! If you come across them do not touch or disturb them as they maybe abandoned by their mothers. Try to keep dogs on leads as well as maintaining your distance to avoid distressing them. They are great to watch as they congregate in vast numbers during the breeding season.

Several companies around Anglesey offer cruises, which allow you to see all manner of wildlife. The companies operating from Beaumaris have trips up to Puffin Island, a known hot spot and breeding ground for the seals.

What will you see?
Puffin Island Cruises

Puffin Island Cruises in Beaumaris offer two kinds of trips, Puffin Island Cruises, the Bridges or sea fishing trips.

The cruises are taken at a leisurely pace in comfortable boats which allow you to take in all the scenery the Menai has to offer. The boat will travel in either direction depending on what you want from the trip. Trip one is off towards the southern end of the Menai to take in the two bridges but mainly the Menai Suspension Bridge.

Puffin Island Cruises Kiosk

Designed in 1826 by Thomas Telford, it is a UNESCO world heritage site. The Meani suspension bridge is from local stone, shipped down from the quarry at Penmon. Before the bridge, cattle going to market had to swim across the Menaia low tide!

Trip 2 heads north towards Penmon and Puffin Island with the Great Orme visible in the distance. On the way up to Puffin you will pass the old Penmon Quarry which has now fallen into disrepair.

Penmon Quarry

As you approach the open sea and Puffin Island there are many creatures to keep your eye out for. There is a seal colony that is on the Island year round, the crew will point these out and take you for a closer look.

Puffin Island

Puffin Island is also home to many different species of bird, however given its namesake. Puffins have been almost absent in recent years, but are now making a comeback. Rats made it onto the Island destroying the nesting birds young. These have since been removed and now hopefully Puffins will return in greater numbers. If you are doing a bit of travelling while on Anglesey, nip over to South Stack. Several breeding pair of Puffin live there in breeding season.

What is the Jewel in the crown when out sightseeing on the boats? There are the Dolphins or Harbour porpoise that frequent the area and of course Puffins. Seeing any of these make the trip outworth while. The Menai is abundant with aquatic life that the dolphins can feed on. If you ask at the ticket kiosk they will tell you if they have been seen during the day. Call in advance to book during summer as it is a busy attraction. If the weather is very poor they may not sail so always check first before setting off.

Britannia Bridge

If you fancy taking in both sides of the Menai, Puffin island cruises do an extended trip. This features both the trips combined into one cruise and its slightly cheaper than both separate too.

Puffin Island cruises shouldn’t be missed if visiting Beaumaris, grab your camera and get snapping! Probably the best few hours you can spend while visiting the area, you never know what you may see.

Don’t forget to book in advance. Especially in summer as you won’t want to be disappointed and miss out on this great attraction.

You can find Puffin Island Cruises at Beaumaris Pier, Beaumaris, Anglesey, North Wales LL58 8BS

For more information and the book your trip please visit https://starida.co.uk/
Porth Wen Brickworks

Porth Wen Brickworks was a Victorian brick manufacturing facility producing fire bricks made from quartzite. These special bricks were used to line steel furnaces all over. Built in the mid 19th century and producing bricks up until 1914, it opened again briefly from 1924 – 1949.

There are a few spaces to park your car but not many, basically grass verges. The best option is to park at Llanbadrig Church and walking across the coastal path. This will take a lot longer than the grass verges closer to the brickworks.

The path down to the brickworks is under a tunnel of bramble and trees which adds to the wonder. As you come to the end of path be mindful as there is significant drop at the bottom. The path ends at the top of a roofless 3 storey building, the back of which uses the rock under foot as part the rear wall. Its not too dangerous to navigate. However if you have children or an energetic dog with you its definitely something to be aware of.

The site still has its buildings in various states of disrepair. The tide has made its way into one of the buildings removing part of the foundations. In general the site can be seen for what it is with various bits of non operational machinery in places.

The kilns are in good condition, two of which are accessible. The old dock is still visible however the tides constant decay is gradually wearing away at the wall, one section has already gone.

The views around the bay are stunning, there is a natural stone arch at the properties edge. The brickworks have an almost other worldly feel about them, the remoteness of the location helps add to this.

A great walk with some amazing views to take in, particularly if coming via the church path. An almost wondrous place you don’t want to miss, it’s one of Angleseys hidden gems.

You can park close the Porth Wen Brickworks, there is maybe enough room for 4 cars. Pull in on the grass verge at the start of the pathway. The closest post code is Amlwch LL68 9LH.

You can fish into the bay too from the stone walls. It really is a great place, scenery, photography, fishing, walking, there is something for tastes. Have a look, you won’t regret it.
Starida Fishing Trips

Starida fishing trips are based in the picturesque town of Beaumaris on the Menia Straits. Moreover the trips leave from Beaumaris pier which rises and falls with the tide allowing trips at both high and low. A modern little marvel, that it is.

Starida Kiosk

The kiosk pic above shows there are various lengths of Starida sea fishing trips available. The two / three hour trips are quick fishing trips, so these are family oriented to allow you to try it out. All equipment hire and bait needed is included in the price for these trips. By the same token this allows you to just hop aboard and have a go with no worries. Likewise the skipper is more than helpful too, getting you setup and leaving you with nothing to worry about.

A happy little fisherman

These shorter trips take you up towards Puffin Island or further into the straits if the weather is poor. You can catch a wide range of different species in the Menai, from little fish to small sharks, Bass and Rays. All are a possibility on these trips. Moreover there is always a chance to see Seals or Dolphins too as they often visit the surrounding waters.

Nice Bull Huss

Starida was in for servicing on one occasion so a small group of us went out on a smaller boat. The pictures are of the smaller boat, it was the owners son potting boat. We caught and that’s what counts and the skipper is always trying to get you on the fish. Whats more he was great fella too and had the whole group laughing.

Taking the wheel

He even let the children aboard have a quick go of the boat, taking time to explain the instruments. It made it a far more interactive experience for them and not just a fishing trip. Tried and tested!

A great little trip for all the family because fishing and a boat ride all rolled in to one is great. You will see the same views and wildlife as you would on the cruises, whats not to like! It really is a great little trip, not too short or too long for younger children either.

I didn’t blank!

For the more avid fishermen you can hire equipment and bait (£6) or take your own aboard these longer trips. The 4-6 hours trips help enthusiasts indulge in their hobby whilst on holiday!

The 8-10 hours trips are for more experienced anglers and enthusiasts alike. Moreover they involve travelling out to known hots spots or indulging in a bit of wreck fishing. Reef fishing and deep water marks are accessible on these longer trips, allowing you to catch bigger fish species. Rod and Bait hire on these trips costs £12pp.

Sea fishing is great and will be well cared for on these trips. Try it and you might love it!

You can find Starida fishing trips at Beaumaris Pier, Beaumaris, Anglesey, North Wales LL58 8BS

To book your sea fishing trip aboard Starida, please visit https://starida.co.uk/fishing/
Beaumaris Castle

Beaumaris castle is situated in the picturesque Town of…you guessed it Beaumaris.

The castle itself was constructed between 1295 and 1330 and has a rich and varied history. Rebellions and uprisings through to the English civil war it has played a part in all. Subsequently this has contributed to it becoming the popular tourist attraction it is today. Beaumaris castle is pretty complete, there are several section of the upper rampart you can walk round. Not only that but most of the inner tunnel walkways and rooms are still intact. Moreover some of the rooms are in fantastic condition with exhibits and models in them.

Tents from the re-enactment display

The castle itself is a great place to visit and further more it comes complete with a functional moat! In terms of the entrance price it is fairer than others close by namely Conwy and Caernarfon. It is no less interesting, it really is a in my opinion Beaumaris’s premier attraction.

Parking is close by and £1.80 for two hours or there is a spacious field across the road which is priced at £4.00 for the day.

It is a castle within its own walls so there are plenty of nooks and cranny’s to explore whilst discovering its rich history. We recommend walking the outer walls first before exploring the actual castle. Beaumaris Castle also allows you to get elevated views of the Snowdonia mountain range.

The Welsh Dragon battling Brave knights

During the summer there are several events held at the castle. I would definitely recommend you try and time your visit to coincide with these dates. There are all sorts of interactive attractions run by enthusiasts, this is definitely not just for the kids. It really does make a big difference to your visit, the organisers do a fantastic job.

Coin Making

Minstrel in a castle room

From Knights putting on mock battles to archery demonstrations. Owls on display, coin making, medieval cooking, mock tent setups. There was a fair old selection of weaponry on display too, whats better than getting hands on with some of that?

Hands on with an axe!

Whilst walking through one of the dark tunnels we came across this little fella hanging from a gap in the stone above. It was quite a busy day so snapped a quick pic so as not to not alert others of its presence. Not that it seemed bothered, hundreds must of walked straight past without noticing. However we cant guarantee this little fella will be there on your visit but you never know.

A bat dangling from the tunnel ceiling

At the time of writing the entrance prices are as follows:

Adult – £6.90
Family – £20.00*
Member – Am ddim/Free
Disabled and companion – Am ddim/Free Student and children under 16 – £4.10
Senior Citizen – £5.50 *Admits 2 adults and up to 3 children under 16 All children under 5 receive free entry

Wet sponges against the stocks

If you are in Anglesey then visiting Beaumaris Castle is one place you really should not miss out on. Its a top 10 attraction to visit.

Beaumaris town has plenty of other attractions to keep you busy during your visit for a fun filled day out.

When visiting Beaumaris Castle you get lush scenery and other attractions locally to make your visit a memorable one. You wont regret it.

You can find Beaumaris Castle at Castle St, Beaumaris LL58 8AP.

For further information on Beaumaris Castle please visit https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/places-to-visit/beaumaris-castle#overview
Sea Fishing Anglesey

Sea fishing Anglesey is fantastic, it offers literally some of the best sea fishing in the UK. With a 130 mile of pristine coastline there is something for everyone. Deep water rock fishing venues to storm beaches, day or night, Anglesey is home to a great abundance of fish species. Fantastic views wherever you decide to fish with a chance of seeing seals and Porpoises on a fairly regular basis.

All disciplines of sea fishing are catered for, moreover whatever the weather there is always a sheltered spot to avoid the wind. Whether you enjoy fishing on the bottom or enjoy a bit LRF, there are spots all over the island. Some are well know such as Mackerel Rock, Penmon Point and the famous Holyhead Breakwater reaching 1.7 miles into the sea. Others spots are closely guarded secrets, take a walk along the coastal path and you will find them dotted around.

Anglesey is also one of the few places around the UK that you can target Tope from the shore! Huss and various species of Ray, some big ones too can be found all around the island.

Congor Eel are also abundant around the rocky sections of Angleseys coastline. Moreover its great for targeting mini species including the colourful Corkwing Wrasse to the strange looking Scorpion fish.

If you fancy a trip out sea fishing in the depths there are several charter boats around the Island. Further out you can catch the bigger fish among the wrecks, shark fishing the Holyhead Deeps with fish upto 79lb! is very popular. Beaumaris, Holyhead and Amlwch have charter boats operating daily, weather dependent.

One thing is for sure, when sea fishing Anglesey it can always throw up a surprise or two. Spider crabs, Lobster and even Octopus are fairly regular shore catches in summer.

Check out www.turnerstackle.co.uk for places you can fish and directions to get there. Its also covers other parts of North Wales and the North West.

What will you catch?
Crigyll Beach

Traeth Crigyll is a vast expanse of sandy beach backed by sand dunes topped with Marram Grass. The beach is huge but 3 separately named beaches all together split by the Afon Crigyll to the east and Ynys Feurig further west. Cymyran to the east, Crigyll is central and Town beach in front of the town of Rhosneigr. Crigyll Beach is also dog friendly all year round too, its great for walks.

The rear of the beach up to the sand dunes is soft sand, ideal for setting up camp for the day ahead. Park up at Rhosneigr and make your way across, Crigyll is a little out of the way from the town centre and there are no facilities. The beach is quite long and shallow as the water comes in so is pretty safe for swimming. Bear in mind there are no lifeguard facilities on this set of beaches. There will also be lots of watersport activities if the weather is nice but its not obtrusive.

Vast expanse of Crigyll Beach

What makes Crigyll beach so special is its isolation. Less frequented than neighbouring beaches, it has the odd dog walker or maybe a horse or two walking the length. If you like having places to yourself this is the place to be. Rhosneigr town beach a little walk away which can become really busy during the summertime with tourists and locals alike.

Crigyll Beach from the dunes

The beach is south westerly facing which means the majority of winds will be sweeping straight onshore into the beach. On hotter days this is welcomed but make sure you wear sun cream as you will burn quickly.
To the rear of the sand dunes is RAF Valley, there are regular flights during the week by Hawk jets trainers and visiting fighter jets. For some this is an added bonus, they are loud and low but for the most part the noise disappears into the background.

Crigyll is a mecca for watersports enthusiasts due to its south facing position which makes it perfect for windsurfers etc, Boats can be launched at Rhosneigr with locals offering launching help with their tractors for a price.

Rockpools at low tide

The waters of Crigyll can be crystal clear if there have been no recent storms. Its possible to safely snorkel among the rock pools around the outcrop of Ynys Feurig. At lower states of the tides the rockpools are great for kids, they are full of crabs, Prawns, Sea Anemones and various species of fish. It is possible to see baby squid too! As the tide rises you can safely snorkel around the rocks and what were once the rock pools, Bass, Dogfish and other species come in as the depth rises. Please remember safety first if attempting snorkeling, never leave children unattended.

Sand dunes to the rear of the beach gives great views all round. Moreover they let allow you to watch the aircraft take off and land at Raf Valley during the week. Another cracking place to walk the dogs, just be aware of Adders in the area.

As far as beaches go on Anglesey Crigyll Beach is definitely a shining star. Get in on the action or sit back and relax the day away. Rhosneigr is close by with facilities and places to grab a bite to eat. Not one to miss.

Closest toilets at Rhosneigr library car park. toilets with a 20p charge. LL64 5YJ
Red Squirrels

Anglesey is home to a healthy population of around 700 Red Squirrels, moreover there are ongoing efforts to increase this population. One of the hotspots to see the Red Squirrels is in the forested area of Newborough on the south east coast of Anglesey. The second hotspot is on the north east coast in the woodland at Pentraeth. They also frequent the wooded areas on the banks of the Menai along the east coast. In terms of population spread they are in most of Anglesey’s larger wooded areas.

Red Squirrel at Penrhos Coastal Park

Penrhos Coastal Park is another good place to view Red Squirrels, there are many pathways to take through the wooded sections. Some of these have feeding stations that serve a dual purpose. Both birds and the Squirrels use the feeders making them easier to spot. They are also more used to visitors walking around here and so are less skittish, makes getting a few picture easier too.

There are numerous paths through these stunningly beautiful areas. Some of these are also along the 125 miles of the Anglesey coastal path. If you are quiet enough you will see their bushy tail disappearing around the back of trees. Keeping dogs on leads will help you spot them as they are fast and have great senses. They will quickly hide if they see dogs coming, mostly lying on top of branches or staying still high in the trees.

The grey squirrel population is believed to have been eradicated from Anglesey, furthermore there have been no sighting since 2013. The neighboring county of Gwynedd is also undergoing its own cull of grey squirrels. The Menai and Britannia bridges help to keep the grey squirrels from recolonising the island. Grey Squirrels are not native to the British Isles. Moreover they are invasive species from North America, Grey Squirrels are much larger so can out compete the smaller reds. Likewise they also carry a virus they are immune to but is fatal to our native Red Squirrels.

In terms of wildlife Anglesey is a very diverse location given its relatively small Size. Red Squirrels are definitely one of the little Jewels in its crown, absolutely lovely little creatures. Get out and explore Anglesey today!
The Royal Charter

The Royal Charter sank on the 26th of October 1859 on its return voyage from Australia. On its voyage back to Liverpool with it’s hold and passengers laden with gold it encountered a force 12 hurricane. This weather event became known as the Royal Charter Storm. The captain it is claimed was advised to port in Holyhead Harbour to weather out the storm but continued on to Liverpool in haste.

An original picture of the Royal Charter wreckage

The precise number of passengers is not known of which only 39 survived. Moreover it is believed to have had around 450 people on board at the time of the storm. There were no women or children that survived the wreckage. Its is believed most were killed by being dashed against the rocks rather than drowning. Others did drown as there pockets were weighted down with the gold they carried on their person.

Gold ring found in the Royal Charter wreckage

There is a standout story of heroism on that Fateful night. Crew member Joseph Rogers ( Guzi Ruggier from Malta) swam whilst holding a heavy rope and manged to climb the cliffs above the ship. The residents of Moelfre had gathered on the cliff and held the rope allowing several to escape until the rope finally snapped.

There were residents of Moelfre who became rich over night after finding gold in the time that followed the storm. The Royal Charter was salvaged shortly after due to its precious cargo. Gold, coins, pistols etc have been found by chance by people diving on the wreck. As recent as 2012 a 97 gram nugget was found just 40 metres from the wreck with and estimated value of £50,000. Enthusiasts still pan for gold in the local rockpools and small quantities of gold dust are sometimes found.

50k Nugget found in 2016

Now the wreck sits just 5 metres from the shoreline, very little is left of the boat. Plates, bulkhead and ribs sit nestled on the bottom. These are sometimes unearthed by the shifting tides particularly following storms.

A memorial sits atop the cliff overlooking the area of the wreck. There is also more information in the Lifeboat station close by. There is a fantastic painting depicting the events of the that fateful night. It hangs on a wall in Moelfre Seawatch, giving a great sense of what occurred during the storm.

There is a pay and display car park next to the lifeboat station should you be inclined to take a look, it really is fascinating.

You can find the Royal Charter at Porth Alerth in Dulas Bay, Moelfre on the north-east coast of Anglesey. Moelfre LL72 8NA

Further more detailed information about the Royal Charter can be found at https://www.anglesey-history.co.uk/places/royal-charter/index.html
Moelfre SeaWatch (RNLI)

Moelfre Seawatch is a free visitor attraction on the Moelfre section of the Anglesey coastal path. Moreover it is conveniently located close to the town centre and next to the life boat station. Moelfre has plenty of free parking too which is an added bonus, a pay and display car park sits to the rear of the building.

Guzi Ruggier or Joseph Rogers

The SeaWatch focuses on the history of the RNLI working out of Moelfre, it has some fascinating displays, furthermore the centre piece being an actual lifeboat. From the old original design of lifejackets, to the names of all the RNLI member who have lost there lives whilst trying to save others, there is a myriad of information. Richard Evans has a memorial statue at the front of the museum facing the sea. He worked at Moelfre RNLI for 50 years and was credited with saving 281 lives!

Internal Picture of Molfre Sea Watch

Equally fascinating is the information provided on the Royal Charter, a steam clipper which ran aground in a storm. Subsequently the storm was named the Royal Charter Storm. Only 39 of over 450 souls survived the wreck, the ship leaving its cargo of gold along the sea bed. There are countless stories both fact and fiction around the incident. A £50,000 gold nugget was found in 2016 at the site of the wreck. Moreover gold dust can also be found in local rockpools.

The grounds have interesting statues and two intriguing monuments depicting the local storm. In fact the location is stunning, with fantastic scenery all round. In the distance you can see the lighthouse at Penmon, as well as the Great Orme of Llandudno. Seating is available and snacks can be purchased from the Sea Watch building along with RNLI souvenirs. It all helps to support the great work the volunteers do to help save lives at sea

If you are in Moelfre or walking the coastal path it is definitely worth calling in. The RNLI is a purely voluntary funded charity, anything you buy helps towards saving lives. Win win. There are also a few nice places to grab a bite to eat in locally. Next to the shingle beach in Moelfre keep an eye for the house with its own waterfall! A great place to visit in a stunning little coastal village.

Moelfre sea watch can be found at:

2 Morannedd, Moelfre LL72 8HY

Further information on Moelfre Seawatch can be found at https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/museums/moelfre-rnli-seawatch-centre