Visit These Anglesey Historic Sites
Sitting at the crossroads between Britain and Ireland and with a rich Roman, medieval and modern past, Anglesey is dotted with lots of historic sites that are well worth a visit during your trip to North Wales. Whether you’re interested in prehistoric burial chambers or Victorian feats of engineering, read on to find out more about our favourite heritage attractions on the spectacular Isle of Anglesey – from Iron Age relics to the world’s first iron suspension bridge.
Before setting off, make sure to pack any of these if you have them: student ID, British armed forces ID, proof that you’re under 18 or over 65, or your English Heritage, Historic Scotland or Manx Heritage membership card. All will get you discounted entry at Cadw’s range of Anglesey paid-entry sites.
For a budget-conscious break, take a look at Pitchup’s collection of Anglesey campsites and glampsites – with prices starting from just £15 per night, there are lots of great options to choose from.
Prehistoric Anglesey
Anglesey, like much of North Wales, is particularly rich in prehistoric history. The island is home to Neolithic sites like the mighty Castell Bryngwyn hillfort near Brynsiencyn and ancient tombs like the Barclodiad y Gawres, Bryn Celli Ddu and Llugwy burial chambers. You can also visit the impressive and mysterious Holyhead Mountain Hut Circles, where the remains of 20 original buildings survive.
This selection of Anglesey’s ancient sites is free to enter and open all year round, making discovering Anglesey's prehistoric past not only interesting but also a great activity for budget travel.
Beaumaris Castle
Sitting on the Anglesey coast near Beaumaris quay, Beaumaris Castle was built in the 1290s following Edward I's conquest of North Wales. Captured by the Glyndŵr Rebellion in the 1400s, this stocky, imposing castle later went on to play an important role in the English Civil War before being absorbed into a local country estate in the 19th century.
Although it was never technically finished, this is one of the most geometric buildings erected by Edward I, and together with other English-built medieval fortifications in North Wales is classed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The chapel, moat and sturdy towers are all still in good condition, and kids will no doubt have fun exploring all the tunnels, towers and turrets.
Melin Llynon
Melin Llynon, on the outskirts of the village of Llanddeusant, is another excellent addition to your tour of Anglesey's heritage. Built in 1775, this impressive building has been restored over the years and now boasts the title of ‘the last working windmill in Wales'. It’s open every day from April to September, and visitors can explore inside and out – although there's no guarantee that the sails will be turning every day.
There’s also a well-stocked gift shop at this family-friendly spot, and for a treat you can pick up Mônuts – fresh doughnuts hand made on site every day in a range of tempting flavours.
South Stack Lighthouse
Built on a rocky islet just off the main island in 1809, South Stack Lighthouse has saved countless ships from being dashed on the rocks over the years. Visitors can take a tour of the island and its lighthouse, which are accessible by a bridge from an RSPB nature reserve. Buy your tickets from the reserve's café, then keep an eye out for rare species of seabirds as you learn about the lives of the lighthouse keepers who kept the flame burning here for over 150 years.
Tours of the lighthouse and the visitor centre are seasonal, but the nature reserve (with views of the lighthouse) is accessible all year round. Being west facing, it's a particularly fine spot for catching the sunset.
For more ideas for days out on the island, have a look at our suggestions for things to do on Anglesey – or just pack your swimming kit and head to one of Anglesey's best beaches. You’re not far from the mainland either, so check out our Eryri (Snowdonia) guide for even more activity inspiration.
If you're planning an Anglesey holiday, you can make the most of the island’s stunning scenery by booking a camping or glamping break. From quiet farm pitches to luxurious glamping lodges, we’ve got plenty of great options for all tastes and budgets.