One Day In Anglesey: The Best Things to Do, Itinerary & Map

Visiting Anglesey for one day and wondering what to see on your quick drive around the island? This post provides you with a suggested Anglesey 1-day itinerary to help you make the most of your short time exploring the island. 

Anglesey, the largest island in Wales, has so much to offer its visitors. Known for its stunning beaches, historic sites, and breathtaking views, Anglesey offers an array of attractions waiting to be explored. Whether you’re heading into Anglesey from North Wales for the day or staying for the weekend in one of Anglesey’s resorts such as Rhosneigr you will have a memorable one-day adventure exploring the best gems the island has to offer on our whistle-stop tour.

In this guide, we highlight some of the must-visit spots that you can enjoy during your island escapade so you get the most out of your visit. 

Can You Drive Around Anglesey In A Day?

Yes, you can drive around the island in a day. It’s 75 km around the main roads and you can do a handful of the island’s activities in a day giving you a superb taster of the island.  

About Our Day Tour Around Anglesey

Anglesey is a relatively small island, measuring around 276 square miles (714 square kilometres). Although driving around the entire island in a single day is certainly possible, it is essential to plan your route wisely to make the most of your time. The key is to strike the right balance between exploration and relaxation. While you won’t be able to explore every nook and cranny of the island, you can still capture the essence of Anglesey and visit some of its most alluring attractions.

We start our trip from Rhosneigr, as it’s the ideal way to see the whole island if you’re spending a weekend in Rhosneigr and want to see more than the village. However, if you are just coming onto the island for a day you can start the day tour at Menai Bridge.

It’s worth keeping in mind that there are many 1-day itineraries that could be created depending on your interests, the weather and the time of year. So use our guide as an inspiration and tweak to suit your preferences. If you’re travelling with kids check out our post on things to do with children. 

Starting from Rhosneigr

Our day trip around Anglesey begins in the charming coastal village of Rhosneigr. With its beautiful beaches, water sports opportunities as well as all the other activities that exist in the village, Rhosneigr is an excellent place to kick-start your adventure. Fuel up with a delicious breakfast at one of the local cafes before setting off on your journey.

South Stack Lighthouse

Heading northwest from Rhosneigr, our first stop is the iconic South Stack Lighthouse. Perched dramatically on the cliffs, the lighthouse offers mesmerising views of the Irish Sea. You can take a short walk to the viewpoint or venture down the steps to the footbridge for an up-close look at this historic structure. Don’t forget your camera, as this is an excellent spot for capturing breathtaking coastal panoramas. If you like taking photos, take a look at our post on the best photo spots in Anglesey.

Holyhead

Continuing along the coast, you’ll arrive in Holyhead, a bustling port town and the largest settlement on the island. Holyhead offers an interesting mix of history and modernity. Explore the Holyhead Maritime Museum to learn about the town’s maritime heritage or take a stroll around the Breakwater Country Park for some fresh sea air and coastal scenery.

Relax In Cemaes Bay

Cemaes Bay is a charming coastal village known for its picturesque harbour and stunning views, it’s an excellent spot to stop and relax. The village offers a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of the Welsh coastline. Take a leisurely walk along the coastal paths, indulge in some delicious seafood at local restaurants, or simply unwind on the sandy beaches. Cemaes Bay’s rich history and quaint charm make it a delightful stop during your whistle-stop tour around the island.

Beaumaris

From Cemaes Bay, head southward to reach the enchanting town of Beaumaris. This picturesque town is famous for its beautifully preserved medieval castle, Beaumaris Castle. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and strategic significance during Edward I’s conquest of Wales. Afterwards, meander through the town’s narrow streets filled with charming shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Menai Bridge

Make a brief stop at the suspension bridge and marvel at the engineering feat and enjoy the views of the strait and the iconic Britannia Bridge in the distance.  There’s a superb viewpoint from the conveniently placed car park 1.5km away on the A5 or get underneath the bridge for some brilliant reflective shots. If you have time pop into the Menai Bridges Museum and learn all about the two bridges which link the island with Wales. 

Take A Stroll Through Newborough Warren

The Warren comprises an expansive sand dune system recognized as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its exceptional botanical, geological and invertebrate characteristics. This habitat is a great place to spot a variety of birds throughout the seasons.  You can take a lovely 3 1⁄2 mile dune walk from either Braint car park or Llyn Rhos Ddu car park. 

Return to Rhosneigr

As the day draws to a close, make your way back to Rhosneigr, cherishing the memories of an eventful day exploring the wonders of Anglesey. Unwind with a refreshing drink at one of the village’s friendly pubs or enjoy a relaxing evening stroll on one of the beaches, taking in the last rays of the setting sun. The sunsets are some of the best on the island. 

Conclusion

While driving around Anglesey in a day is indeed possible, it’s essential to plan your itinerary strategically to make the most of your time. From the rugged coastline and historic landmarks to serene beaches and enchanting towns, Anglesey offers a diverse array of attractions to explore during your day trip. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Anglesey has something to offer every visitor.

For a comprehensive list of things to do and see in Anglesey, check out our page on Things to Do and See in Anglesey. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and let the island of Anglesey weave its magic on your one-day adventure!