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A mini guide to
Holyhead & Holy Island: tips and FAQs
Local know-how and common questions
Local know-how
Tips for visiting
Allow time before a sailing
Holyhead station adjoins the port, but Irish Ferries notes the terminal is closed between 3am and 5.45am. Check in times with your ferry operator.
Take care on the cliffs
The coastal trail at South Stack is rugged, uneven and narrow. The RSPB reserve has a level path from the Ellin's Tower car park to the viewpoint.
Respect the tern colony
At Cemlyn the North Wales Wildlife Trust asks visitors to walk on the seaward side of the shingle ridge between late April and August.
Check museum season
Holyhead Maritime Museum closes for the winter and reopens just before Easter; it asks visitors to phone to confirm opening.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Where is Holyhead & Holy Island?
Holyhead & Holy Island is in Anglesey, Wales. The Dublin ferry port, with South Stack's seabird cliffs, Holyhead Mountain and the beaches of Holy Island. Nearby stops and stations include Holyhead station, Port of Holyhead, Valley and Rhosneigr.
How long do I need in Holyhead & Holy Island?
One or two days, or a half day before or after a ferry. Allow longer if you plan to eat out or visit several attractions.
What are the highlights?
Highlights include RSPB South Stack and Ellin's Tower, South Stack Lighthouse, Holyhead Breakwater Country Park. See the Things to do page for more.
How do I get there?
Nearby: Holyhead station (Rail); Port of Holyhead (Ferries to Dublin); Valley and Rhosneigr (Rail); A55 (Car). The Getting there page links to the official timetables and journey planners.
Where can I eat and drink?
We list 8 places to eat and drink in and around Holyhead & Holy Island, with filters to help you choose.
Where should I stay?
We list 5 hotels and other places to stay nearby. Check availability and prices with each property.
Is Holyhead & Holy Island accessible?
Accessibility varies by street, building and venue. Check each attraction or operator’s access information before you travel.
While you are here
Things to see in Holyhead & Holy Island
A few of the sights in the area. The Things to do page lists them all, with directions and official links.
Trearddur Bay
Seaside village and resort south of Holyhead on the west coast of Holy Island, on the Anglesey Coastal Path.
Ucheldre Centre
Arts centre in Holyhead with exhibitions, films, live broadcasts, theatre and music, plus a kitchen and shop.
Barclodiad y Gawres
Clifftop cross-shaped passage tomb with rare decorated stones, between Rhosneigr and Aberffraw; Cadw.
Photo credits
- Rhoscolyn: Eric Jones, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Trearddur Bay: Ian Greig, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Ucheldre Centre: Mx. Granger, CC0, source
- Barclodiad y Gawres: Rhion, CC BY-SA 3.0, source
- Beaumaris, Menai Bridge & the east: Ron Galliers, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
Photos from Wikimedia Commons, used under the licences shown. All photo credits
Keep exploring Anglesey