Isle of Anglesey

Introducing Isle of Anglesey

After the rugged majesty of Snowdonia, some find the low-lying planes of the Isle of Anglesey (Ynys Môn) disappointing. For others, travelling east from the ferry port of Holyhead, the mountainous vista sets pulses racing. But don't let Snowdon's looming presence distract you: there are unique charms here, and visitors who explore will find miles of inspiring coastline and Wales' greatest concentration of ancient sites.

Fertile Anglesey provides north Wales with much of its wheat and cattle, and has a long history of habitation. Good farming probably played a role in attracting a considerable early population, while the island was holy to the Celts. Often referred to as Mam Cymru - Mother of Wales - it was the last outpost to fall to the Romans.

In 1826 Thomas Telford established the first permanent link to the mainland. His 174m bridge across the Menai Strait has a 30m-high central span, allowing the passage of tall ships. By 1850 a second crossing was under construction - Robert Stephenson's Britannia Bridge carried the newly laid railway. Today, this bridge also carries the bulk of the road traffic, much of which hurtles directly to the Irish ferries at Holyhead.

Mostly in coastal locations, Anglesey's ancient remains number around 20, spanning the ages from prehistoric to Roman and early Christian times. Top billing goes to Neolithic burial mound Bryn Celli Ddhu (600m from the car park on the A4080 west of Plas Newydd, two miles west of Llanfair PG).

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009