Anglesey is a place of myths and legends. Fact and fiction weave their webs to create an island that feels like a fairy tale. Peaceful pine forests, soft sandy coves and rugged cliffs hold secrets, wildlife, history and adventure – all enticing you further onto this island that some of us are lucky enough to call home.

From the moment you cross one of the bridges spanning the Menai Strait, you are on holiday. There are so many experiences waiting for you on Anglesey, from the peaceful solitude of a coffee in one of our many independent cafes to the exhilaration of coasteering from Porth Dafarch beach. There is something here for everyone, no matter the weather.

Anglesey is not only rich in experiences – it is an island of thriving small businesses and proud people. The two biggest industries are agriculture and tourism, so it is quite literally our job to send you home well fed, well stocked and well replenished.

Trearddur Bay

Trearddur Bay is an increasingly popular holiday destination, yet the rugged beauty of its coastline remains largely untouched. Peaceful coves and smaller beaches nestle among the cliffs, offering a different landscape to the two main bays the village is perhaps best known for.

Both Trearddur Bay and Porth Dafarch have been awarded the coveted Blue Flag award, assessed against multiple criteria including cleanliness and water quality. The main beach offers stretches of golden sand for traditional seaside holidays, while Porth Dafarch provides a wilder setting and serves as a base for coasteering, sea kayaking, rock climbing and paddleboarding.

After working up an appetite, the village has everything from laid-back coffee and cake to fine dining. We even have a bubble tea cafe. There are convenience shops for your morning newspaper, bread and milk, and an array of restaurants and pubs – all within walking distance of most of our properties.

The Climate

Anglesey has a low, rolling landscape with an exceptionally mild climate. Adverse weather fronts normally pass over the island, unloading only when they reach the Snowdonia mountain range beyond. It does rain on occasion, and the island gets its share of wind, but this only enhances the experience – dramatic crashing seas and blown spume make for exhilarating walks.

Photo Gallery

Explore More

We have put together a series of guides to help you make the most of your stay on Anglesey:

• The Best Beaches on Anglesey
• Exploring Holyhead: The Breakwater and South Stack
• The Castles of North Wales
• Day Trips into Snowdonia
• Walking the Anglesey Coastal Path
• Dog-Friendly Pubs
• Fishing on Anglesey
• Things to Do in Winter
• Family Attractions
• Where to Eat on Anglesey
• Getting to Anglesey
• History and Heritage
• Water Quality at Trearddur Bay Beach

Anglesey is blessed with over 120 miles of coastline and some of the finest beaches in Wales. Whether you are after a sheltered sandy cove for the family, a windswept stretch for walking the dog, or a dramatic rocky bay for a bracing winter stroll, the island has something for every mood and season.

1. Trearddur Bay

Our home beach and for good reason. A beautiful sheltered sandy bay with crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming, paddle boarding and kayaking. The beach is backed by the sailing club and is just a few minutes walk from most of our properties.

 

 

2. Rhosneigr

 

A wide, windswept beach that has become a magnet for kite surfers and windsurfers. The village itself is charming, with independent shops, a fantastic cafe scene, and several good restaurants.

3. Newborough Beach and Llanddwyn Island

Often ranked among the best beaches in Britain. The forest walk down to the beach is an experience in itself, opening out onto a vast expanse of sand with views across to Snowdonia.

4. Benllech

A classic family beach on the east coast. Gently sloping sands, rock pools at low tide, and a village with ice cream shops and fish and chip takeaways.

5. Church Bay

A small, photogenic bay on the north-west coast with a cafe right on the beach. The snorkelling here is excellent on a calm day.

Looking for a holiday home near the beach? Browse our full range of properties.

One of the best things about a holiday on Anglesey is being able to bring your dog along. And after a long walk on the coastal path, there is nothing better than settling into a warm pub with your four-legged companion by your side.

The White Eagle, Rhoscolyn

Perched on the clifftop with stunning views across to Snowdonia, The White Eagle is a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike. Dogs are welcome in the bar area and there is a large beer garden. The food is excellent, especially the Sunday roasts.

The Seacroft, Trearddur Bay

Just a short walk from many of our properties, The Seacroft is a modern gastro pub with a relaxed atmosphere. Dogs are welcome and the menu features locally sourced produce.

The Ship Inn, Red Wharf Bay

A classic waterside pub with a fantastic position overlooking the bay. Dogs are welcome inside and there are lovely walks right from the door.

Trearddur Bay Hotel – The Inn at The Bay

Just a short stroll from the Bay dogs are allowed in the large beer garden and bar area, just not allowed within the restaurant.

 

Most of our pet-friendly properties are within easy reach of these pubs.

Most people pass through Holyhead on their way to the Irish ferry, but those who stop and explore are rewarded with some of the most dramatic scenery on Anglesey. Just a few miles from Trearddur Bay, Holyhead and Holy Island are packed with things to see and do.

The Breakwater

Holyhead Breakwater is one of the great Victorian engineering achievements. At 1.7 miles long, it is the longest breakwater in Britain and was built between 1845 and 1873 to shelter the harbour from the ferocious Irish Sea storms. Today it makes for a spectacular walk – the views back towards Holyhead Mountain and out across the open sea are extraordinary, and on a blustery day the waves crashing against the outer wall are genuinely thrilling.

The Breakwater Country Park at the base of the walk is a lovely spot in its own right, with woodland trails, a lake popular with anglers, and abundant birdlife. There is a car park and the walks are well maintained – it is a great option for families.

South Stack Lighthouse

Perched on a tiny island off the western tip of Holy Island, South Stack Lighthouse has been guiding ships since 1809. The descent down 400 steps to the lighthouse is an experience in itself, with the cliffs towering above you and seabirds wheeling overhead. The RSPB reserve here is home to choughs, puffins (in season), guillemots and razorbills. Even if you do not fancy the steps, the clifftop views are breathtaking.

Holyhead Mountain

At 220 metres, Holyhead Mountain is the highest point on Anglesey. The walk to the summit takes around 45 minutes and rewards you with panoramic views across Holy Island, the mainland mountains of Snowdonia, and on a clear day, the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland. At the top you will find the remains of Caer y Twr, a Roman watchtower – evidence that people have been admiring this view for nearly two thousand years.

Holyhead Maritime Museum

Housed in the oldest lifeboat station in Wales, this fascinating little museum tells the story of Holyhead as a maritime town. Shipwrecks, lifesaving rescues, and the history of the Irish Sea crossing are all brought to life through exhibits and artefacts. There is also a restored World War II air raid shelter in the grounds.

All of this is within a short drive of our holiday properties in Trearddur Bay – you could easily spend a full day exploring Holyhead and Holy Island.

Whether you are visiting for a weekend or a week, Anglesey has more than enough to keep families entertained. Many of these attractions are within a short drive of our Trearddur Bay properties, and several offer all-weather options for those inevitable rainy days.

Pili Palas Nature World – Menai Bridge

Discover all-weather fun at Anglesey’s top family attraction, open all year round. The butterfly house is home to free-flying birds,

butterflies, insects and farm animals, plus a café, gift shop and both indoor and outdoor play areas. You can sit in the aviary among free-flying birds, watch the meerkats in their outdoor enclosure, or let the children loose in the soft play house before heading to Pets Corner to meet the rabbits. Near Menai Bridge, Pili Palas makes a perfect day out before sampling the culinary delights of the independent restaurants and cafes in the town itself. Dogs are not allowed in the park except for Assistance dogs. Roughly 30 minutes away by car from Trearddur Bay.

https://www.pilipalas.co.uk/

Anglesey Sea Zoo

An aquarium just outside Brynsiencyn, the Sea Zoo is always enjoyable. The owner is a leading light in sustainable practice on the island and regularly organises free beach cleans. The aquarium itself, while compact, does an excellent job of educating visitors about ocean life and what we can do to help. Children will find the themed areas captivating, and the outdoor play area – complete with miniature golf and a separate toddler section – is superb. The café serves delicious, often home-made food with locally sourced produce. You could easily spend a couple of hours here followed by lunch. A great perk to here is your ticket is valid to use again if you return within 6 days. Second entry is completely free!

https://www.angleseyseazoo.co.uk/

Foel Farm Park

This is a working farm with loads for children to do. Explore the farm on tractor and trailer rides or quad bike and mini trailer rides

There are pony rides for smaller children during school holidays, and you can join in with bottle feeding lambs in spring and early summer. The Anglesey Chocolate Farm is also sited here, where you can watch chocolates being made by an expert chocolatier. The Garden Terrace café offers a stunning view overlooking Snowdonia, Caernarfon Castle and the Menai Strait.

Foel Farm Park tourist attraction on Anglesey, North Wales

Holyhead Empire Complex

Cinema and play center – recently renovated this is a perfect for a rainy day.

A large play center which is suitable for ages 0 – 12 years, walk ins only.

https://holyheadempire.co.uk/cinema-holyhead

Penrhos Country Park

This nature reserve near Holyhead has been enjoyed by generations. The wooded area, planted in the 19th century, has a wealth of mixed woodland, flora and fauna, bluebell beds, meadow butterflies and freshwater habitats. The park attracts over 100,000 visitors every year and is just a few minutes from our Trearddur Bay properties.

Breakwater Country Park

Situated near to the town of Holyhead. The Breakwater country park was opened in 1990 and is situated on the site of an old quarry which supplied the stone for the 2.39km Holyhead Breakwater. Part of the park is situated within an Area of Outstanding natural beauty. There is a large childrens play ground to enjoy, a cafe, small shop and a museum on site.

 

National Trust -Plas Newydd House & Gardens

Plas Newydd is a Grade 1 listed house and garden situated on the banks of the Menai Strait. Perfect day out for everyone just 30 minute drive from Trearddur Bay. Pack a picnic or eat out in The Old Dairy Cafe on site and soak in the stunning views of the Menai Straits. Check out their website for special activities they offer during the summer holidays.

Plas Newydd House and Garden | Wales | National Trust

National Trust – Penrhyn Castle and Garden

A vast neo-Normal castle built between 1820 and 1837, 60 acres of garden and woodland surrounding the Castle with views of Snowdonia’s summits as well as the Great Orme & Puffin Island

Penrhyn Castle and Garden | Wales | National Trust

Zip World

Not on Anglesey itself but just across the Menai Strait, Zip World operates several adventure sites in Snowdonia including Velocity – the fastest zip line in the world – and Bounce Below, an underground trampoline experience in a vast cavern. Brilliant for older children and teenagers.

Zip World Betws-y-Coed | Forest Adventures | Zip World

All of these attractions are easily accessible from our holiday homes in Trearddur Bay. Most are within 20 – 30 minutes by car.

The waters around Anglesey and Holy Island are some of the most productive in the Irish Sea. Whether you want to cast a line from the rocks, charter a boat for a day offshore, or introduce the kids to fishing for the first time, there is something here for every level.

Shore Fishing

Anglesey has hundreds of accessible shore marks, and the coastline around Trearddur Bay and Holyhead is particularly good. Porth Dafarch is a popular spot for bass in the summer months, while the rocks around Penrhos Bay produce wrasse, pollack and mackerel. For those who prefer sandy beaches, Rhosneigr and Aberffraw offer excellent flatfish opportunities, particularly in autumn and winter.

The Breakwater at Holyhead is another favourite – the deep water on the outer wall produces conger eels, dogfish and rays, while the inner harbour side is good for mullet in summer. Night fishing here can be particularly productive.

Charter Boat Fishing

For those wanting to get offshore, there are several excellent charter boat operators working out of Holyhead harbour. A typical day trip will take you out around the Skerries or the offshore reefs, where you can expect to catch species including pollack, cod, ling, tope, and in the warmer months, bass and smoothhound.

SBS Rib Charter, run by Aubrey Diggle, has been operating in Anglesey waters for almost 20 years. As a former Auxiliary Coastguard and current RNLI Operations Manager, his knowledge of local waters is unsurpassed. Half-day and full-day trips are available, and they can tailor trips to all experience levels.

Kayak Fishing

Kayak fishing has become increasingly popular around Anglesey. The sheltered bays of Trearddur and the calmer waters of the Menai Strait offer safe launching points, and you can find yourself fishing over ground that the boats cannot reach. Bass, pollack and mackerel are all regularly caught from kayaks in the summer months.

Freshwater Fishing

If sea fishing is not your thing, there are several well-stocked freshwater lakes on the island. Llyn Alaw, Anglesey’s largest lake, is a productive trout fishery, and day tickets are available. The lake at Breakwater Country Park in Holyhead also offers coarse fishing in a beautiful setting.

What You Need to Know

• No licence is required for sea fishing in Wales
• A rod licence is required for freshwater fishing (available from the Environment Agency)
• Minimum size limits apply to many species – check current regulations
• Several tackle shops on the island can advise on local marks and bait

After a day on the water, head back to one of our coastal holiday homes in Trearddur Bay – several have outdoor showers and utility rooms perfect for cleaning down your gear.

While summer is peak season, there is something truly special about Anglesey in the quieter months. The beaches are empty, the sunsets are dramatic, and many of our properties have log burners waiting to warm you up after a day of exploring.

Storm Watching

When the weather rolls in off the Irish Sea, the coastline around Trearddur Bay becomes a spectacular show. South Stack lighthouse is a particularly dramatic vantage point. Wrap up warm, grab a flask of tea, and enjoy nature at its most powerful.

Coastal Walking

The Anglesey Coastal Path is 125 miles of stunning scenery, and winter is arguably the best time to walk it. You will have the paths largely to yourself, and the low winter light makes for incredible photography.

Cosy Pubs and Restaurants

Anglesey has a thriving food scene that runs year-round. Many restaurants and pubs offer special winter menus featuring local game, seafood and seasonal produce.

Wildlife

Winter is peak season for birdwatching on Anglesey. The RSPB reserve at South Stack is home to choughs, peregrines and, if you are lucky, short-eared owls. Grey seals can often be spotted from the coastal path.

Browse our properties with log burners for the perfect winter retreat.

Anglesey punches well above its weight when it comes to food. The island has an abundance of places to eat and drink, from quaint village cafes to fine dining restaurants that draw visitors from across the country. Booking is highly recommended in advance during peak season.

In and Around Trearddur Bay

Sea Shanty Café & Restaurant – A Trearddur Bay institution. Right on the seafront with a menu ranging from casual breakfasts and lunches to evening meals. Hugely popular, especially in summer. 01407 728 200.

Oceans Edge – Contemporary dining overlooking the bay. Excellent locally sourced seafood and a well-chosen wine list. A special occasion restaurant that delivers consistently. 01407 861 785.

Trearddur Bay Hotel – Bar and restaurant with a lovely terrace. Good for relaxed family meals with views across to Snowdonia. 01407 860 301.

The Seacroft – A modern gastro pub on Ravenspoint Road, within walking distance of many of our properties. Good food, relaxed atmosphere, and a decent beer garden. 01407 860 348.

The Driftwood –  Serving delicious homemade food & cask ales and a traditional carvery on Sunday.
01407 860332

Holyhead and Holy Island

Catch 22 Brasserie, Valley – Consistently good food in a relaxed setting.  01407 238 220.

Harbourfront Bistro , Newry Beach Holyhead – A fantastic restaurant on the water – Great views and great food 01407763433

Langdons – Newry Beach Holyhead 01407 762415

Delicious homemade food with Holyhead Mountain as a beautiful backdrop.

Spinnakers – Newry Beach Holyhead 01407 763857

Situated upstairs in Holyhead Sailing club. Family run restaurant serving locally sourced food.

Beaumaris

The Midland – Tapas-style small plates on Castle Street. Great for sharing. 01248 810 429.

Neptune Bistro – Unpretentious bistro on Castle Street serving honest, well-cooked food. 01248 810 327.

Pier House Bistro – Right on the waterfront with views across the Strait. 01248 811 055.

Bishopsgate Hotel – Elegant dining in a Georgian townhouse. 01248 810 302.

Dockshack – Casual, fun, and full of flavour. Street food style on Castle Street.

Bulkeley Hotel – Grand hotel dining with a classic menu. 01248 810 415.

Menai Bridge

Dylan’s – Waterfront restaurant serving wood-fired pizzas, seafood and seasonal dishes. Superb setting on the Menai Strait. 01248 716 714.

Sosban and The Old Butchers – One of the most celebrated restaurants in Wales. A tiny, unique dining experience with a weeks-long waiting list. Book very early. 01248 208 131.

Freckled Angel – Small plates restaurant on the High Street. Creative cooking with local ingredients. 01248 209 952.

Tom’s Hamburger House – A Menai Bridge legend. Simple, brilliant burgers. 01248 712 211.

Anglesey Arms – Traditional pub with good food and real ales. 01248 712 305.

Around the Island

The White Eagle, Rhoscolyn – Clifftop pub with stunning views and excellent food. Dog-friendly. 01407 860 267.

The Oyster Catcher, Rhosneigr – Overlooking Maelog Lake. Modern British cooking in a beautiful setting. 01407 812 829.

Sandy Mount House, Rhosneigr – Boutique hotel with a superb restaurant. 01407 253 102.

The Ship Inn, Red Wharf Bay – A classic waterside pub with a fantastic position overlooking the bay. Dog-friendly. 01248 852 568.

The Tavern on the Bay, Red Wharf Bay – Great food in a stunning location. 01248 852 751.

The Old Boathouse, Red Wharf Bay – Relaxed dining right on the water. 01248 852 731.

Black Lion Inn, Llanfaethlu – Excellent Welsh cuisine in a charming village pub. 01407 730 718.

The Lobster Pot, Church Bay – As the name suggests, superb seafood in a gorgeous coastal setting. 01407 730 241.

We hope this helps you plan some memorable meals during your stay. Follow us on Instagram @trearddurbayholidayhomes and share your foodie photos so others can discover the wonderful flavours of Anglesey too.

One of the great advantages of a holiday on Anglesey is the proximity to Snowdonia. The mountains that form the dramatic backdrop to so many of our sea views are just 30 to 45 minutes away by car. Whether you are a serious hillwalker, a family looking for an adventure, or simply want to enjoy the scenery, a day trip into Snowdonia is an absolute must.

Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa)

The highest mountain in Wales at 1,085 metres, Snowdon – or Yr Wyddfa, to give it its Welsh name – is the obvious headline attraction. There are six main paths to the summit, ranging from the relatively gentle Llanberis Path (about 3 hours up) to the dramatic Crib Goch scramble, which is only for experienced and confident scramblers. The views from the top on a clear day are extraordinary – you can see as far as Ireland, the Lake District and the Wicklow Mountains.

If you prefer not to walk, the Snowdon Mountain Railway runs from Llanberis to the summit between March and October. Book well in advance during school holidays.

Zip World and Adventure Activities

Snowdonia has become a hub for adventure activities. Zip World operates several sites in the area, including Velocity at Penrhyn Quarry – the fastest zip line in the world, reaching speeds of over 100mph. Bounce Below, an underground trampoline experience in a vast cavern, is brilliant for families. There is also Surf Snowdonia, an inland surf lagoon at Dolgarrog, where you can catch a wave regardless of the weather.

Betws-y-Coed and the Swallow Falls

The pretty village of Betws-y-Coed sits at the confluence of three valleys and is the gateway to Snowdonia for many visitors. The Swallow Falls, just outside the village, is one of the most photographed waterfalls in Wales. The village itself is full of outdoor shops, cafes and galleries – a lovely place to spend a morning before heading into the mountains.

The Welsh Highland Railway

For a more leisurely way to enjoy the mountain scenery, the Welsh Highland Railway runs heritage steam trains from Caernarfon through the heart of Snowdonia to Porthmadog. The route passes through the Aberglaslyn Pass, one of the most beautiful stretches of railway in Britain.

Llanberis

The village of Llanberis, at the foot of Snowdon, is worth a visit in its own right. The National Slate Museum tells the story of the quarrying industry that shaped this landscape, and Dolbadarn Castle sits dramatically on its rocky outcrop overlooking Llyn Padarn. The lake itself offers kayaking, swimming and lakeside walks.

All of this is easily accessible from our Trearddur Bay holiday homes – head across the A55, over the Britannia Bridge, and you are in the mountains within 40 minutes.

Despite feeling wonderfully remote once you are here, Anglesey is surprisingly well connected. The A55 dual carriageway runs right across the island, and rail services connect Holyhead to London and the rest of the UK. Once you cross one of the bridges spanning the Menai Strait, the pace of life slows immediately – but getting here is straightforward.

By Car

The motorway network and the A55 along the North Wales coast offer dual carriageway access right across the island. If you are travelling from the south, the A5 through the mountains of Snowdonia is a spectacular alternative. Trearddur Bay is just off Junction 2 of the A55, making it one of the easiest destinations on Anglesey to reach.

Typical drive times to Trearddur Bay:

• Manchester: approximately 2 hours 15 minutes
• Liverpool: approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
• Birmingham: approximately 3 hours
• London: approximately 4 hours 30 minutes
• Chester: approximately 1 hour 15 minutes

By Train

Bangor and Holyhead are on the main rail route to Ireland, with connections and services from most parts of the UK. Holyhead station is just 3 miles from Trearddur Bay. Avanti West Coast operates direct services from London Euston to Holyhead, and Transport for Wales connects through the North Wales coast from Chester and Crewe.

By Sea

Holyhead is the gateway to Ireland. Stena Line and Irish Ferries operate regular services to Dublin and Dun Laoghaire, with both fast and cruise ferry options available. If you are travelling from Ireland, you could be in your holiday property within 15 minutes of stepping off the ferry.

By Air

Manchester Airport is the nearest major international airport, offering easy access to North Wales from most parts of Europe, the USA and beyond. From Manchester, it is approximately 2 hours to Trearddur Bay by car. Liverpool John Lennon Airport is also well positioned, about 1 hour 45 minutes away.

Getting Around the Island

Anglesey is best experienced by car. If you do not have a car, Hertz operate a car hire depot in Holyhead, only 3 miles from Trearddur Bay. Contact them on 01407 761 800.

If you prefer not to drive, Anglesey is supported by a good network of public bus services covering most of the island. Download the Traveline Cymru app for up-to-the-minute local bus timetable information, or visit their website for full details of all bus services the island has to offer.

Many of the best beaches, restaurants and attractions on Anglesey are also accessible via the 125-mile Anglesey Coastal Path, which passes close to several of our properties.

Browse our holiday properties and start planning your trip to Anglesey.