Welcome to No Fuss Travel Guides!
12 January 2024
No Comments
Tucked off the coast of North Wales, Anglesey is a compact island that punches well above its weight. Anglesey (Ynys Môn in Welsh) is a 276-square-mile island that packs an astonishing variety of landscapes and history into its compact size. Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this island offers everything from UNESCO World Heritage Sites to secluded beaches that could rival Mediterranean postcards. With its dramatic coastline, medieval castles, and engineering marvels, this Welsh gem offers diverse adventures in a small but mighty package. Whether you’re chasing history, jaw-dropping views, or serene island walks, these Anglesey must-sees belong on every traveler’s itinerary.
When Thomas Telford completed the Menai Suspension Bridge in 1826, he didn’t just connect Anglesey to mainland Wales – he revolutionised global engineering. This impressive Anglesey must-see stretches 579-foot crossing the treacherous Menai Strait, Operation for almost 200 years! No list of Anglesey must-sees is complete without this iconic landmark.
World’s First Major Suspension Bridge: Designed by Thomas Telford in 1826, this Grade I listed structure still carries traffic today.
Stunning Panoramas: Walk across for views of the Menai Strait or snap photos from the mainland-side parking area.
Visit at sunset when the golden light bathes the ironwork, pure magic for photographers. On the mainland side of the bridge there’s a small road where you can park to get some photos and even walk across the bridge to get some views across the Menai Strait.
A Castle Like No Other! Beaumaris represents the pinnacle of medieval military architecture and our second Anglesey must-see. Beaumaris is famous for being the greatest castle never built’. This was intended to be the crowning glory, but a lack of money and trouble in Scotland meant that building work petered out by the I 320’s and the project was never properly finished. Don’t be put off by the story, Beaumaris is a fortress of immense size and ‘near-perfect symmetry’. History buffs, this Anglesey must-see is for you.
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Edward I’s last and most symmetrical castle, despite never being completed.
Family-Friendly: Explore the grounds (dogs welcome on leads!) and nearby Beaumaris town’s charming seafront.
Buy tickets in advance (£8.30 adults, £5.80 kids) to avoid queues in peak season. Also take some time after touring the castle, to explore charming Beaumaris town!
This iconic 1809 lighthouse perched on a tiny island off Holy Island. The approach alone justifies the visit – the road winds through heathland before revealing sheer cliffs dropping to churning waters below. For wild beauty, this Anglesey must-see delivers.
Cliffside Thrills: Peer down from free viewpoints or descend 400 steps to the lighthouse (tour tickets required).
Wildlife Haven: For you birdwatchers, spot puffins and more from the RSPB reserve.
Pack windproof layers, this exposed spot lives up to its dramatic reputation! Tickets are required for lighthouse tours.
Llanddwyn is a small tidal island on the west coast of Angelsey, home to the ruins of St. Dwynwen church and two very scenic lighthouses – Twr Bach and Twr Mawr. This jaw dropping location isn’t just lighthouses – it’s a dramatic outpost clinging to cliffs, surrounded by some of Wales’ most spectacular seabird colonies. Nature lovers, prioritize this Anglesey must-see.
Park at the Newborough Forest car park and make the 4 mile return walk either through the lush forest or along the beach to Llanddwyn Island. Try and avoid high tide when the island is cut off from the mainland and remember that this place is very exposed to the elements.
These four Anglesey must-sees prove that big adventures come in small packages. Whether you’re walking in the footsteps of medieval kings at Beaumaris Castle, chasing seabirds at South Stack, or discovering tidal magic on Llanddwyn Island, each location offers its own unforgettable Welsh moment.
Want more epic Wales destinations? Our No Fuss Guide to Wales takes the stress out of planning with curated itineraries for coastal drives and mountain escapes, Money-saving hacks for castles, parking, and local eats. As well as crowd-beating tips so you spend less time queueing, more time exploring as well as route maps to keep you on track for your best adventure yet!
Pack your sense of adventure (and waterproofs – this is Wales after all!), and let these Anglesey must-sees inspire your next trip. The island’s magic awaits!
