Holyhead

Holyhead (or Caergybi in Welsh) is the largest town on the Isle of Anglesey, which sits just off the northwest coast of Wales. A short hop from the mainland, across the Menai Strait, Holyhead is a charming ferry port town and a great starting point to explore the rest of the island.

Attractions

The natural beauty of this part of North Wales is often quite stunning and Llyn Alaw Visitor Centre offers a complete experience of this. At nearby Llantrisant, the centre is perfect for picknicking and walking. There are also good bird watching hides and areas for trout fishing.

There are several other good walking routes along the cliff tops, where you can take in the spectacular coastal scenery. Between Borthwen and Trearddur Bay there is a famous local monument for a brave dog, Tyger, who saved the lives of a group of men here in 1819.

For an educational experience, you can learn all about Holyhead at The Maritime Museum. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 1pm to 5pm, the museum’s different sections tell the story of the town from Roman times through to the present day. It is £2 for adults and 50p for children.

Traditional culture is a very important part of life for much of North Wales, so a visit to the Canolfan Ucheldre Centre may be of interest to visitors. Situated in a former convent chapel, the centre hosts many events, exhibitions and activities throughout the year. If you want to venture beyond Holyhead, the rest of Anglesey has a lot to offer. Beaumaris is an historic town, home to one of the castles built by Edward I and Henllys Hall is a magnificent old mansion, which has now become a hotel.

Anglesey is also home to the village with the longest place name in Great Britain, 'Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch'. Translated into English the name means "The church of St. Mary in a hollow of white hazel near a rapid whirlpool and near St. Tysilio's church by the red cave". For brevity’s sake, it is known by locals as Llanfair. P.G.

Shopping

The centre of Holyhead is a lively, bustling place where you can buy almost anything. As well as highstreet stores, there is a very good covered market. You may also like to go to the Anglesey Craftworkers Guild, which is an interesting place to visit. Dedicated craftspeople, who live and work in Anglesey, produce all sorts of quality goods that encompass all the age old traditions of the island.

For a more unusual shopping experience, Llynnon Mill is a must. It is the only working windmill left in Wales and produces stone-ground flour. There is also a craft shop.

Nightlife and Eating Out

There are plenty of pubs in and around Holyhead, and most have food menus. It is has a collection of Chinese, Italian and Indian restaurants, so you certainly won’t go hungry.

You should take advantage of Holyhead’s geographic location and try some of the local seafood. The Lobster Pot at Church Bay has a fantastic menu as well as a very homely atmosphere. Of course, there are also several very good fish and chip shops.

In town, there is a cinema and theatre for entertainment, but do check local listings as you will often find that events and festivals are taking place.

Tourist Information

Holyhead Tourist Information Centre Stena Line Terminal 1 Isle of Anglesey Holyhead GwyneddWales LL65 1DQ Tel: +44 (0) 1407 762622Fax: +44 (0) 1407 761462holyhead@nwtic.com

Airport

The nearest international airports are Manchester and John Lennon Airport in Liverpool. Both have regular bus and train services.