The Anglesey Coast: South Stack, Llanddwyn, Beaumaris & the Best Walks

Anglesey is the island across the Menai Strait from the mainland of North Wales, a low green island fringed with cliffs, dunes and sandy bays. Most of its coastline is protected as the Anglesey National Landscape.

Why Anglesey Coast Is Special

Anglesey's coast is wonderfully varied: dramatic seabird cliffs at South Stack, the dunes and forest of Newborough, the tidal island of Llanddwyn and the castle town of Beaumaris, all with the mountains of Eryri across the water.

The Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path runs right round the island.

The History of Anglesey Coast

At South Stack, on Holy Island off Anglesey's west coast, a lighthouse stands on a small island at the foot of the cliffs, reached by a long flight of steps and a bridge.

Llanddwyn Island, a tidal island off Newborough, is linked with St Dwynwen, the Welsh patron saint of lovers, and the ruins of her church stand among the rocks.

On the Menai Strait, Beaumaris Castle was begun by Edward I in 1295 and is part of a World Heritage Site; Thomas Telford's Menai Suspension Bridge first linked the island to the mainland by road in 1826. Plas Newydd, the house of the Marquesses of Anglesey, is famous for its Rex Whistler mural.

What to See & the Best Walks at Anglesey Coast

Visit the RSPB reserve at South Stack and walk down the steps to the lighthouse when it is open. Walk through Newborough Forest and across the sands to Llanddwyn Island (check the tide).

Visit Beaumaris Castle and its seafront, and Plas Newydd on the shore of the Menai Strait.

Wildlife at Anglesey Coast

The cliffs at South Stack are home to puffins, guillemots and razorbills in early summer, and choughs live there all year. Red squirrels have returned to Anglesey's woods, including Newborough Forest.

Gardens, Countryside & Antiques near Anglesey Coast

See the RSPB South Stack Cliffs and Plas Newydd listings, and walk part of the Wales Coast Path. Gardeners can visit Holland Arms Garden Centre.

Across the strait, the mountains of Eryri are a short drive away; see our guide to Eryri.

Anglesey Coast Through the Seasons

Spring and early summer bring seabirds to South Stack. Summer is the season for beaches and sailing on the Menai Strait. Autumn and winter are wild and quiet, with views to snow-capped mountains.

Getting to Anglesey Coast

Trains from Chester and Bangor cross the island to Holyhead. Buses link the main villages.

Anglesey Coast: Questions & Answers

Can you visit South Stack lighthouse?

The lighthouse is reached by a long flight of steps; check opening days before you go. The RSPB reserve on the cliffs is open all year.

Who is St Dwynwen?

The Welsh patron saint of lovers, linked with Llanddwyn Island off Newborough.

Our Advice

Our advice: Go to South Stack in the morning for the seabirds, walk to Llanddwyn in the afternoon, and finish in Beaumaris.