Llanfaethlu Travel Guide

Discover the beautiful village of Llanfaethlu in North Wales, including its stunning natural attractions, rich history, local culture, and delicious food.


Introduction to Llanfaethlu

Nestled in the heart of Anglesey, in North Wales, lies the charming village of Llanfaethlu. Despite being less popular than its neighbouring villages, Llanfaethlu offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality that is sure to captivate any visitor.

The village is easily accessible by car, bus, or train, making it a perfect weekend getaway destination or a stop on your North Wales itinerary. In this guide, we will take a closer look at what Llanfaethlu has to offer, including its must-see attractions, outdoor adventures, local culture, food and drink, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Llanfaethlu

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the main draws of Llanfaethlu is its rich history, which can be explored through its numerous museums and historical sites. The village is home to the St. Maelog’s Church, a beautiful 14th-century church that has stood the test of time. Visitors can marvel at its impressive architecture, intricate stained-glass windows, and learn about the church’s fascinating history.

Another must-visit attraction is the Llynnon Mill, Anglesey’s only working windmill. The mill is over 200 years old and occupies a stunning location surrounded by rolling hills and fields. Visitors can tour the mill, see how flour is made, and learn about the history of milling in Wales.

Natural Attractions of Llanfaethlu: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Llanfaethlu is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The village is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, from rolling hills to rugged coastlines. One of the top outdoor attractions is the Cemlyn Bay Nature Reserve, a stunning wildlife sanctuary home to rare birds, marine mammals, and wildflowers.

Another scenic spot is the Porth Swtan (Church Bay), a beautiful cove with crystal-clear water, golden sand, and breathtaking views. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, or simply take a leisurely stroll along the beach and enjoy the scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Llanfaethlu

Exploring Llanfaethlu’s beautiful countryside on foot or by bike is a must-do activity. The village offers several well-marked trails that are suitable for all levels of fitness, from gentle walks to strenuous hikes.

One of the most popular trails is the Anglesey Coastal Path, a 125-mile route that follows the island’s coastline through rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and hidden coves. The path offers magnificent views of the sea and the surrounding landscape and is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Llanfaethlu.

Best Things to Do in Llanfaethlu: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and sightseeing, there are plenty of exciting activities and tours to keep visitors entertained in Llanfaethlu. For history buffs, there are guided tours of the St. Maelog’s Church and the Llynnon Mill, offering an in-depth look at Anglesey’s rich heritage.

For adventure seekers, there are plenty of watersports and outdoor activities on offer, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and kite surfing. Visitors can also take a boat tour around the island, exploring its hidden coves and stunning coastline.

Week-Long Itinerary for Llanfaethlu

For those planning a longer stay in Llanfaethlu, here is a suggested week-long itinerary that covers the best of the village and the surrounding area:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Llanfaethlu, visit St. Maelog’s Church and the Llynnon Mill
  • Day 2: Explore the Anglesey Coastal Path and Cemlyn Bay Nature Reserve
  • Day 3: Take a boat tour around the island and visit the South Stack Lighthouse
  • Day 4: Go kayaking or paddleboarding at Porth Swtan and Church Bay
  • Day 5: Visit the Anglesey Sea Zoo and the Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens
  • Day 6: Explore the town of Beaumaris, home to a historic castle and numerous shops and restaurants
  • Day 7: Depart from Llanfaethlu

Food and Drink Scene of Llanfaethlu

Must-Try Dishes

Llanfaethlu is known for its traditional Welsh cuisine, which is hearty, wholesome, and full of flavour. One of the must-try dishes is the Welsh rarebit, a delicious cheese toastie made with local cheddar and served with pickles and relish.

Another local favourite is the Welsh cakes, which are small, sweet, and perfect with a cup of tea. Visitors can also try the famous Laverbread, a type of seaweed that is eaten with bacon or served on toast.

Local Beverages

To wash down all that delicious food, visitors can try some of the local beverages available in Llanfaethlu. One of the most popular drinks is the Welsh Mead, a sweet honey wine that has been brewed in the region for centuries. Visitors can also sample the local beers and ales, such as Purple Moose and Bragdy Mona.

Where to Stay in Llanfaethlu: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Llanfaethlu offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Visitors can choose from hotels, hostels, guesthouses, or self-catering cottages, all offering comfortable and cosy rooms with stunning views of the countryside.

Some of the top-rated hotels in the area include The Bull Hotel and The Black Lion Inn, both known for their warm hospitality, excellent service, and delicious food.

What to Buy in Llanfaethlu: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Llanfaethlu can take home some souvenirs and local products to remind them of their visit. One of the best places to shop is the Llechwedd Llamas, a farm that breeds and sells llamas and alpacas. Visitors can buy woolly hats, scarves, and gloves made from the soft and warm alpaca wool.

Another great shopping spot is the Oriel Ger-Y-Fenai, an art gallery that sells unique and beautiful handmade crafts, including pottery, paintings, and sculptures.

Local Culture and Customs of Llanfaethlu

Llanfaethlu has a rich and vibrant local culture, which is reflected in its language, art, music, and festivals. The Welsh language is widely spoken in the village, and visitors can learn some basic Welsh phrases to interact with the locals.

Llanfaethlu also hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, such as the St. Maelog’s Church Fete, which features live music, traditional food, and games. Visitors can also attend the Anglesey Agricultural Show, an annual event that celebrates the region’s rural heritage and culture.

Best Time to Visit Llanfaethlu

The best time to visit Llanfaethlu is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is warm, and the days are long. However, visitors can also enjoy the village’s breathtaking beauty during the autumn and winter months, when the countryside is painted with vibrant colours and the cosy pubs offer a warm refuge from the cold.

Do’s and Don’ts of Llanfaethlu

Do:

  • Learn some basic Welsh phrases
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Take photos of the stunning scenery and wildlife
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages
  • Attend a festival or event

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment
  • Interrupt locals while they speak Welsh
  • Disrespect historical sites and buildings
  • Drive recklessly on the narrow roads
  • Be loud or disruptive in public areas

Safety and Health

Safety in Llanfaethlu

Llanfaethlu is a safe and welcoming village, with very low crime rates. However, visitors should still take basic safety precautions, such as locking their cars and valuables, and not leaving them unattended.

Health in Llanfaethlu

There are excellent medical facilities in Llanfaethlu, including a doctor’s surgery and a pharmacy. Visitors should also be aware of the risks of hiking and outdoor activities, such as sunburn, dehydration, and hypothermia, and take appropriate measures, such as wearing sunscreen and dressing in layers.

Getting to Llanfaethlu: Transportation Options and Logistics

Llanfaethlu is easily accessible by car, bus or train. Visitors can drive to Llanfaethlu from major cities such as London, Manchester, or Cardiff in less than three hours. The village is also served by regular bus and train services from nearby towns and cities.

Airports Near Llanfaethlu

The nearest international airport is Manchester Airport, which is approximately 150 miles from Llanfaethlu. Visitors can also fly to Liverpool John Lennon Airport, which is about 110 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Llanfaethlu

The village is served by several bus services that connect it to nearby towns and cities such as Bangor, Holyhead, and Llangefni.

Other Options

Visitors who prefer not to drive can also take a train to Bangor or Holyhead and then catch a bus or hire a taxi to Llanfaethlu.

How to Get Around in Llanfaethlu

Llanfaethlu is a small village that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. Visitors who prefer driving can rent a car from one of the several car rental companies in the nearby towns and cities.

Where to Go Next from Llanfaethlu: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Llanfaethlu is also a great base from which to explore the rest of Anglesey and North Wales. Visitors can take a trip to the nearby town of Holyhead, which is the gateway to Dublin and is home to numerous shops, bars, and restaurants.

Other nearby attractions include the historic town of Beaumaris, famous for its medieval castle and old-fashioned charm, and Snowdonia National Park, which is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the UK.

Conclusion

Llanfaethlu may be a hidden gem, but it has everything that visitors could want from a Welsh village – rich history, stunning natural beauty, warm hospitality, and delicious food. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or a relaxing weekend escape, Llanfaethlu is sure to delight and inspire.

Church of Saint Maethlu Church of Saint Maethlu