Ynys Llanddwyn and Newborough Forest, Isle of Anglesey

Start and Finish

Llyn Rhos Ddu car park to Llanddwyn Island (via Newborough Forest)

Distance

4 miles or 6 km

Along the way

This easy walk takes you to one of Wales’ most romantic historic sites, with plenty of wonderful wildlife on the way. 

Start from the car park – you can either walk out along the beach or through Newborough Forest, one of the largest publicly accessible forests in Wales.  It was originally planted to stabilise the shifting sand dunes, but has become an important habitat for red squirrels and large numbers of roosting ravens.

You’ll emerge from the forest close to Llanddwyn Island, a narrow finger of land pointing out into the sea (despite the name, this ‘island’ remains accessible at all but the highest of tides).  It’s home to the remains of St Dwynwen’s Church, named for the Celtic princess known as the Welsh patron saint of lovers.

Close to the church is a holy well, populated by eels said to be able to predict your romantic future.  If they’re jumping when you visit, you’re sure to be lucky in love.

You can also see reminders of Anglesey’s maritime history on Llanddwyn.  Two 19th-century lighthouses, Twr Mawr and Twr Bach, still stand at the island’s tip, alongside two restored pilot’s cottages.  The men who lived here would row out to help ships negotiate the treacherous sandbars between Caernarfon and Abermenai point, as well as manning the local lifeboat.

Retrace your steps back to your start point. 

Walk Highlights

Gruff Owen, Wales Coast Path Officer’s highlights

"A truly special place, this walk is sure to leave a spell on you!  Many famous films have been shot here including Clash of the Titans and Half Light".

Need to know

There is a car park at the start of the walk.  At approximately the half way point, there is the main larger car park with a toilet block, water refill point and a picnic area (with designated BBQ areas).

Visit Natural Resources Wales website for more detailed maps and information on alternative return routes for this stunning place.

Itinerary and Map

Download the Ynys Llanddwyn and Newborough Forest itinerary (PDF) and a route map (JPEG)