Ynys Llanddwyn Island

Address: Ynys Llanddwyn (Llanddwyn Island), off the west coast of Anglesey, Wales - access via Newborough and Newborough Forest

Ynys Llanddwyn is a small tidal island off the southwest coast of Anglesey, Wales, noted for its coastal scenery and its association with Saint Dwynwen, the Welsh patron saint of lovers.

The island features rocky shorelines, sand, and dunes and is a popular short excursion from the nearby sandy expanse of Newborough Beach; it is used for walking, birdwatching and coastal views.

Historically linked with Saint Dwynwen, the island contains ruins tied to that tradition and has been a local place of devotion and folklore for centuries.

Ynys Llanddwyn lies off Newborough on Anglesey’s southwest coast, adjacent to the Newborough Warren nature reserve and accessible from the nearby village and parking areas on the mainland.

• Tidal access: The island is tidal and can be reached on foot from Newborough Beach at low tide; consult tide times before crossing the sand and causeway areas.
• Best viewpoint: The western headland near the lighthouse gives the island’s best long-distance views, especially toward Snowdonia and Cardigan Bay at sunset.

What to See#

• St Dwynwen’s Church (ruins): Ruins of a small medieval church and associated grave slabs tied to Saint Dwynwen, a focal point for cultural and pilgrimage visits to the island.
• Twr Mawr lighthouse: A small lighthouse and navigation structure on the island’s western headland that provides a prominent landmark and viewpoint over Cardigan Bay and toward Snowdonia.

Park at Newborough Forest car park near Newborough (Anglesey). From the car park it’s a 20-30 minute walk along marked paths across dunes to the tidal causeway that leads to Ynys Llanddwyn; check local tide tables before crossing.

• Ynys Llanddwyn is an islet connected by a tidal causeway - check tide times before crossing to avoid being cut off.
• Walk to the Dwynwen chapel ruins and the lighthouse for the classic views; the walk is short but can be muddy after rain.
• Parking is available at Newborough Forest; from there it's about a 20-30 minute walk to the causeway and island.