Anglesey

The picturesque island of Anglesey, located off the northwest coast of Wales in the United Kingdom, is renowned for its natural beauty, historical monuments, and peaceful atmosphere. If you have decided to visit Anglesey, a variety of convenient routes are available to you: from flying and taking a scenic train ride to travelling by car or bus across the famous bridges. When planning how to get to Anglesey, you will easily find the optimal option to begin your acquaintance with this unique corner of the Kingdom.

The island is home to the operational Anglesey Airport (VLY), which accepts commercial flights. The main route connecting this air hub with the rest of the country consists of regular domestic flights from Cardiff. This route is particularly convenient for those who are already in the region and wish to reach their destination as quickly as possible, bypassing ground transport.

For tourists planning a journey from abroad, the optimal choice would be the major transport hubs in neighbouring cities — Manchester or Liverpool. These airports service numerous international flights and are located at a convenient distance from the island. Upon arrival, travellers can easily rent a car or utilise railway connections to cover the remaining distance and cross the Menai Strait.

Travelling by train is one of the most comfortable and scenic ways to get to Anglesey. The island has a direct rail connection with the mainland thanks to the North Wales Coast Line. This main line runs along the coast of North Wales and crosses the Menai Strait via the famous Britannia Bridge, offering passengers breathtaking views even as they approach their destination.

The key station on the island is Holyhead, located on the western tip. Direct trains from London and Chester arrive here regularly, making the trip as comfortable as possible and eliminating the need for complex transfers. The railway network of the United Kingdom allows you to easily plan your route and enjoy the beauty of British landscapes from the carriage window.

Bus travel is an excellent way to reach the island while enjoying the scenery and comfort. The largest operator, National Express, offers convenient routes connecting Anglesey with the country's key transport hubs. Travellers can take advantage of services from London or Manchester, making the trip simple and predictable even for those visiting this region for the first time.

The journey from historic Chester takes about two hours and passes along the picturesque coast of North Wales. Modern coaches ensure a high level of convenience, and the culmination of the trip is crossing the strait via the famous bridge, from where magnificent views of the surroundings open up.

Travelling by car to Anglesey will grant you freedom of movement and unforgettable views of the North Wales coast. The main route to the island runs along the A55 expressway, which flows smoothly into one of the two bridges across the Menai Strait — the Menai Suspension Bridge or the Britannia Bridge. A drive from historic Chester will take just over an hour (about 100 km), while the road from lively Liverpool will require approximately one and a half hours, which will fly by unnoticed thanks to the high-quality road surface and scenic landscapes outside the window.

For tourists arriving from Ireland, convenient ferry services are organised between Dublin and the port of Holyhead, located directly on the island. Modern ferries accommodate cars on board, and the sea crossing usually takes from 2 to 3.5 hours depending on the type of vessel. Personal or rented transport is the best choice for exploring the United Kingdom and its hidden gems, allowing you to reach the most secluded beaches and attractions of Anglesey at any convenient time.

To ensure your trip to Anglesey is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant memories, it is worth considering a few local features in advance. We have prepared a list of practical recommendations that will help you enjoy your holiday on this picturesque island without any unnecessary hassle.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The weather in the United Kingdom, and especially in Wales, is changeable and windy. Even in summer, it is highly recommended to bring a waterproof windbreaker and dress in layers. For walks along rocky shores, comfortable, non-slip footwear is mandatory.
2. Transport: Although buses run between the main towns, the schedule may not be very convenient for a tourist. The best way to explore the island is to rent a car. This will give you freedom of movement and allow you to reach the most beautiful secluded bays and lighthouses.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Pound Sterling (£). Bank cards are accepted everywhere, however, keeping a small supply of cash (coins and small notes) is useful for paying for parking in remote places or making purchases in small farm shops.
4. Health and Safety: The island is very peaceful, and the crime rate here is low. Pharmacies and medical points are available in large settlements, such as Holyhead. The main safety rule concerns nature: always check the tide times before walking on the beach so that the water does not cut off your path back.
5. Communication: Anglesey is a region where the Welsh language is actively used, so you will often see bilingual signs and hear local speech. At the same time, all residents speak fluent English, so there will be no issues with mutual understanding.
6. Local Etiquette: The Welsh are famous for their hospitality, but they value respect for private property and nature. If you are walking along footpaths through pastures, be sure to close gates behind you so as not to let livestock out.
7. What to Avoid: Do not ignore parking rules on narrow country roads. Never block "passing places," as they are necessary for oncoming cars to pass each other and for large farm machinery to get through.
8. Extra Tip: Do not miss the chance to take a photo at the station in the village of Llanfairpwllgwyngyll. This place is known for its incredibly long name, and attempting to read it in full will become a fun challenge for your group.

By following these simple tips, you will be able to feel confident and focus on the main thing — the beauty of nature and the unique atmosphere of Wales. May your trip be filled with vivid impressions, and may practical matters be resolved easily and seamlessly.