Saint Tudwal's Islands


Saint Tudwal's Islands are a small archipelago lying south of Abersoch on the Llŷn Peninsula in North Wales, at the western end of Tremadog Bay. They were apparently referred to as the Studwells in the early 19th century.
There are two main islands: Saint Tudwal's Island West and Saint Tudwal's Island East , plus the Carreg y Trai rocks.
The islands are known for their seal population. The western island houses the St Tudwal’s Lighthouse, and the eastern has the remains of a priory. The western island reaches 144 feet and is the higher of the two.

Saint Tudwal's Island East

Saint Tudwal's Island East is a grass covered, kidney-shaped island, about in length and in width. It was owned by author Carla Lane until her death in May 2016.
The highest point on the island is above sea level. It is located just over off the Llŷn Peninsula in Gwynedd. The nearest settlement is Machroes. Small ships sail from the nearby town of Abersoch to take passengers to view the wildlife. The island is believed to be the original hermitage of Saint Tudwal, which is presumably where its name comes from. The remains of a priory, referred to in the 1291 tax rolls, can be found on its eastern side.

Saint Tudwal's Island West

The West island was purchased by adventurer Bear Grylls and converted into a holiday home.
On 22 August 2013 it was reported that he was facing a planning investigation by Gwynedd Council, after installing a slide into the sea. He has since taken the slide down, saying it was never intended to be permanent and that he would clear it with the council before using it again.