Ynys Llanddwyn


Ynys Llanddwyn is a small tidal island off the west coast of Anglesey, northwest Wales. The nearest town is Newborough.

Geology and geography

The island is of geological interest with pillow lava, jasper formations and aeolian sand deposits.
The island forms part of the National Nature Reserve of Newborough Warren which includes the extensive and floristically rich sand dune system.
Ynys Llanddwyn is a tidal island; it remains attached to the mainland at all but the highest tides. It provides views of Snowdonia and the Llŷn Peninsula.

Saint Dwynwen

The island is rich in legends, in particular in its association with Dwynwen. The name Llanddwyn means "The church of St. Dwynwen". Dwynwen is the Welsh patron saint of lovers, making her the Welsh equivalent of St. Valentine. Her Saint's day is 25 January and is often celebrated by the Welsh with cards and flowers. The island bears the ruined remains of St Dwynwen's Church.

Visitors

Newborough National Nature Reserve & Forest, of which Ynys Llanddwyn is part, received 478,204 visitors in 2018.

Footpaths

There are more than of footpaths crossing Ynys Llanddwyn and Newborough Warren, including the Anglesey Coastal Path, and it is a very popular place to visit. The island provides a worth-while goal after the mile-long walk along the beach from the nearest car park. Ynys Llanddwyn, with the neighbouring beach, has been awarded Blue Flag beach status in recognition of the cleanliness of the sea and the beaches.

Lighthouse

marks the western entrance to the Menai Strait.

Time line