Places To Visit
Anglesey is full of interesting things to see and places to go, which are much more than wet-weather refuges. Here's a selection -
Oriel Ynys Mon - excellent museum, art gallery and history centre which includes Oriel Kyffin Williams - a gallery dedicated to the work of Sir Kyffin Williams, Wales' foremost artist. After building his reputation in London, in 1974 Sir Kyffin returned to live on Anglesey for the rest of his life, until he died in 2006.
Parys Mountain - in its time the largest copper mine in the world, the lunar landscape of Parys Mountain stands testament to the industrial past of Anglesey. In an age when Britain really did rule the waves, copper played a key role in keeping ships afloat by protecting wooden hulls from barnacles and worms. The really keen can arrange underground visits which are led by a member of the Parys Underground Group, which is neither a terrorist cell nor a Welsh offshoot of the Circle Line.
Cartio Mon Karting - remember this is how Michael Schumacher started! Settle that argument with your brother-in-law by beating him over 5 laps of wheel-to-wheel go-karting. Floodlit racing and all weather-operation - call to book. Just off J4 of the A5, 6 miles from Holyhead. Tel: 01407-741-144.
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Anglesey Sea Zoo, Llanfair PGAnglesey Sea Zoo (Brynsiencyn, near Llanfair PG) - loads of watery animals in Wales' largest aquarium. You can go on guided 'beach safaris' down on the shoreline, find out how oysters grow pearls and adopt a spiny starfish! Tel: 01248 430411
Lligwy Burial Chamber (Moelfre) - a massive stone-capped burial site, which is thought to be Neolithic. Standing next to the chamber you can't help but be amazed - how did they do that?
Marquess of Anglesey's Column (Llanfair PG) - one of many monuments built to the Iron Duke after he saved Europe from M. Bonaparte (or condemned us to a more boring cuisine, depending on your point of view). Anyhow, it certainly gives you tremendous views of the Menai Straits and Snowdonia if you can climb the 200-odd stairs to the top.
Pili Palas Minibeast (Menai Bridge) - butterflies, snakes and pygmy goats can all be encountered here! Throw in a café and the chance to be zoo keeper for a day, and you've got a grand day out! Tel: 01248 712474
South Stack Lighthouse (South Stack) - well, it just has to be seen! This is a proper lighthouse, the sort you draw when you're 6. Built at the beginning of the 19th century with a pick, a trowel and strong nerves, South Stack is the beacon for sailors departing and arriving. Loads of seabirds and the chance to go round the lighthouse make this a brilliant visit for children of all ages.
Tal y Foel Riding Centre (Dwyran) - beach and grasstrack riding for horse-lovers, plus an indoor school and outdoor jumps. Tel: 01248 430 377
Holyhead Leisure Centre (Holyhead) - swimming pool, sports hall and fitness classes. Just in case you're starting to relax too much. Tel: 01407 764111