Must See Tourist Attractions in Anglesey
With 125 miles of unspoilt coastline, the Isle of Anglesey sits proudly to the North-West of Wales. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is an adventurer’s paradise, punctuated by rugged scenery, ancient castles and the diverse wildlife of the Irish Sea.
If you’re planning a trip to Anglesey, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the number of attractions available. Whether you want the adrenaline hit of a fast-paced boat trip or prefer to take things slow on the golf course, the island boasts a wealth of activities to keep everyone entertained.
All these are set against the spectacular backdrop of a landscape that, despite its distance from the mainland, seems to be the beating heart of Wales. From daytrips to week-long stays, here are some of the best tourist attractions to explore in Anglesey.
Aberlleiniog Castle
Where: East Anglesey
Price: Free
Often described as a hidden gem, Aberlleiniog Castle feels like a well-kept secret. This motte and bailey fortress is nestled in the middle of a peaceful nature reserve, not far from the village of Llangoed on the eastern tip of the island.
The fortress was built near the Menai Strait to defend Anglesey in Norman times. Although its original wooden structure has long gone, its 17th century stone still bears the weight of 1,000 years of history – making it an unmissable tourist attraction for history buffs.
But it’s not just its fascinating past that sets Aberlleiniog apart. Now owned by the island’s Enterprise and Rural Development Agency, there is a clear commitment to nature conservation and its grounds promise idyllic walks that take in some of Anglesey’s most beautiful scenery.
Record-Breaking Boat Trips
Where: The Menai Strait
Price: Starting from £150
If fast-paced fun is your thing, you won’t want to miss a trip out to sea on Velocity! This record-breaking boat trip is apparently the world’s fastest RibRide – and is the highest rated adventure boat tour in the UK.
Take in the island’s wildlife (if you’re quick enough) as you fly across the waters like a bird. Want to see the animals close-up? Alternatively, book one of the company’s 90-minute puffin and seal trips. This will take you out to the aptly-named Puffin Island, where seals and birds alike have made their seasonal home.
The Copper Kingdom
Where: Amlwch Port
Price: Free
One of the most distinctive Anglesey attractions is the unforgettable Copper Kingdom. This 18th century copper mine adds colour to the landscape to this day, thanks to an enormous man-made crater that glitters like gold in the sun!
The best way to experience the largest open-cast copper mine in the world, is by following the copper mine heritage trail. Stretching roughly two miles from the exhibition centre, this trail will take you on a self-guided tour of the mountains, valleys, and ports that nestle within the breathtaking landscape. We promise you’ve never seen anything like it!
After your walk, why not stop off at the Sail Loft Maritime Museum? This attraction will enable you to explore the history of Amlwch and its famous copper mine – not to mention the teas and coffees in its cosy café.
Plas Newydd Country House and Garden
Where: Llanfairpwll
Price: Starting from £8
Set against the wild beauty of Anglesey, Plas Newydd Country House and its carefully restored gardens provide a manicured contrast to the natural world. The ancestral home of the Marquess of Anglesey enjoys spectacular views over the Menai Strait – but you’ll probably be too entranced by the manor house to notice.
Outside, an Italianate terraced garden, majestic arboretum and the house’s famous flowerbeds are the perfect place to spend a warm afternoon. Inside, the restyled 1930s interior features a stunning mural by the artist Rex Whistler – a British painter who was tragically killed in World War Two.
With associations ranging from the Battle of Waterloo to the recent battle to reintroduce red squirrels, you can easily spend a whole day exploring Plas Newydd Country House.
Anglesey Sea Zoo
Where: Llanfairpwll
Price: Starting from £7.25 (children under 3 are free)
Home to the best of Britain’s marine life, the Anglesey Sea Zoo has over 40 tanks for you and your family to explore. From lobsters and octopuses to seahorses, moon jellyfish and eels, the aquarium is committed to protecting the species it displays – organising a variety of captive breeding programs and regular beach cleans.
Anglesey Sea Zoo offers a range of attractions for people of any age. If you’re a parent, let your kids run wild in the adventure playground while you pick your very own memento for the day – a genuine pearl oyster that will be opened, cleaned and set into a special piece of jewellery.
The Candle Alchemist Workshop
Where: Dwyran
Price: £55 for a beginner’s course
If you’re looking for a handmade reminder of your Anglesey trip, what could be better than something you’ve had the experience of making yourself? At the Candle Alchemist Workshop, you can book a beginner’s candle-making course that will furnish you with a new set of skills and memories that will last a lifetime.
Situated just three miles from Llanddwyn beach, the workshop is on the top floor of a former Victorian schoolhouse. It runs courses for adults as well as drop-in craft days for kids – the perfect way to relax after an invigorating morning on the sands of Anglesey.
Red Wharf Bay Vineyard
Where: Opposite the village of Red Wharf Bay
Price: £22 for adults, £5 for under-18s
An independent micro-vineyard that overlooks Traeth Coch, the Red Wharf Bay Vineyard brings a flavour of Spain to Wales. Enjoy a peaceful guided tour through the vines before settling down for delicious tasting session in the wine garden – two reds, one white and the owner’s famous ‘Anglesey tapas’.
Made from Solaris, Rondo and Tempranillo grapes, the house wine is the perfect accompaniment to the beautiful views. Watch the sun set over the bay and bask in the best that Wales – and Spain – has to offer!
