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Unusual Things to do on Anglesey
If you’re searching for unusual things to do in Anglesey, you’re in for a treat. This beautiful island off the north west coast of Wales is known for its sweeping beaches, historic castles and dramatic coastal walks, but look a little closer and you’ll uncover experiences that are truly out of this world.
From bathing in seaweed to walking across a landscape that looks like Mars, Anglesey offers visitors the chance to see a very different side of North Wales. Whether you’re planning a family break, a romantic escape or a short adventure-packed getaway, here are five of the most unusual attractions on Anglesey that deserve a place in your holiday itinerary.
1. Discover Sea Salt & Seaweed at Halen Mon
A visit to Halen Mon’s HQ offers far more than just a factory tour. Set on the banks of the Menai Strait, this award-winning sea salt company has built an international reputation for producing some of the finest salt in the world, yet its roots remain firmly in Anglesey.
During a tour of the Sea Salt HQ, you’ll learn how pure seawater is filtered and gently heated to create delicate, crunchy salt crystals. The process is surprisingly fascinating, combining traditional methods with modern food production standards. Guides explain how the unique local waters contribute to the flavour, and you’ll gain a new appreciation for something most of us take for granted in our kitchens.
What truly sets this experience apart, however, is the opportunity to take part in an outdoor seaweed bath. Seaweed bathing has a long history in coastal communities and is believed by many to have soothing and restorative properties. Slipping into a warm bath infused with mineral-rich seaweed while breathing in the fresh Anglesey air is certainly not your average spa treatment experience. Whether you’re drawn by the novelty or the potential wellness benefits, it’s a memorable way to connect with the island’s natural resources.
Before you leave, the on-site shop is well worth a visit. From flavoured salts to locally inspired gins and quirky souvenirs, it’s the perfect place to pick up something unique to remind you of your stay in North Wales.
2. Explore the Other-Worldly Parys Mountain
If you’ve ever wondered what it might feel like to step onto another planet, a trip to Parys Mountain will give you a close approximation. Known locally as Copper Mountain, this historic site near Amlwch was once one of the most important copper mines in the world.
Mining here dates back thousands of years, but it was during the 18th century that Parys Mountain became globally significant. At its peak, it was a major supplier of copper for the British Empire, fuelling industry and shipbuilding. The remains of this industrial heritage can still be seen scattered across the landscape, from old mine shafts to weathered ruins.
What strikes visitors first, though, is the colour. The ground is streaked with vivid reds, oranges and purples, created by the oxidisation of copper and other minerals. On a bright day, the terrain glows against the sky, giving the impression of a Martian landscape. It’s stark, dramatic and completely unlike the green fields and sandy beaches most people associate with Anglesey.
Walking trails allow you to explore while taking in panoramic views across the island and out to sea. For photographers and geology enthusiasts, this is easily one of the best unusual things to do in Anglesey. It’s a reminder that North Wales isn’t just about postcard-perfect scenery; it also has a raw, elemental side shaped by centuries of industry.
3. Get Locked Up at Beaumaris Gaol
For a glimpse into Victorian life for those on the wrong side of the law, head to Beaumaris Gaol. This imposing 19th-century prison, located in the historic town of Beaumaris, offers a sobering and often surprising insight into crime and punishment during the Victorian era.
Built in 1829, the gaol was designed to house local offenders in an age when prison reform was beginning to take shape. Inside, you can wander through cold stone corridors, peer into cramped cells and see the exercise yard where inmates were allowed limited time outdoors. Informative displays explain the strict routines prisoners were expected to follow, from hard labour to enforced silence.
The types of crimes that brought people here ranged from petty theft to more serious offences. For many inmates, imprisonment was a harsh reality shaped by poverty and limited opportunities rather than hardened criminal intent. Learning about their stories adds a human dimension to the experience and helps visitors understand the social history of Anglesey and the wider North Wales region.
A visit to Beaumaris Gaol is not your typical seaside attraction, which is precisely what makes it so compelling. It offers a powerful contrast to the island’s natural beauty and provides an educational stop that both adults and children will find incredibly thought-provoking.
4. Get Loved Up on Llanddwyn Island
Few places on Anglesey combine natural beauty and romantic legend quite like Llanddwyn Island. Located off the west coast of the island, this tidal island is reached via a scenic walk across Newborough Beach and is one of the most picturesque spots in North Wales.
Llanddwyn Island is closely associated with Saint Dwynwen, the Welsh patron saint of lovers. According to legend, Dwynwen lived in the 5th century and fell in love with a prince named Maelon. When their relationship was thwarted, she prayed to be freed from her feelings and devoted her life to God instead. It is said that she was granted three wishes, one of which was that all true lovers would find happiness.
She eventually settled on Llanddwyn Island, where the remains of her church can still be seen today. The island became a place of pilgrimage, and its romantic associations have endured for centuries. Even now, couples still visit the island to walk hand in hand along the shoreline, take in the sweeping views of Snowdonia across the water and reflect beside the ancient ruins.
With its historic lighthouse, rugged coastline and sense of peaceful isolation, Llanddwyn Island is an unforgettable destination. For those enjoying a romantic holiday in North Wales, it offers a setting steeped in legend and natural charm, making it one of the most unusual things to do in Anglesey for couples.
5. Capture the Moment in Llanfairpwll
No list of unusual things to do in Anglesey would be complete without mentioning Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch. Famous for having the longest place name in Europe, this village has become a must-visit stop for curious travellers.
While the name itself was created in the 19th century as something of a publicity stunt, it translates roughly as “St Mary’s Church in the Hollow of the White Hazel near the Rapid Whirlpool and the Church of St Tysilio by the Red Cave.” It’s a mouthful by any standard, and part of the fun lies in attempting to pronounce it correctly.
The highlight for many visitors is the railway station sign, where the full name is proudly displayed. Taking a photograph beside it has become something of a rite of passage for holiday makers in North Wales. In an age of social media, a snapshot here is almost guaranteed to spark conversation and likes online..
Beyond the novelty, the village also offers easy access to the Menai Strait and surrounding countryside, making it a convenient and quirky addition to any Anglesey holiday itinerary.
Make the Most of Your North Wales Getaway
Anglesey is a destination that rewards curiosity. From sea salt and seaweed baths to copper-coloured mountains, Victorian prisons and romantic tidal islands, there is no shortage of unusual things to do in Anglesey for visitors looking beyond the obvious.
By staying at one of Pario’s North Wales holiday parks, you’ll be perfectly placed to explore both the island and the wider region. Spend your days uncovering hidden gems, walking dramatic coastlines and stepping back through centuries of history, then return to comfortable surroundings where you can relax and plan your next North Wales holiday adventure. Book your stay with Pario today and discover just how much North Wales and Anglesey both have to offer.
