Anglesey is one of the most popular holiday spots in Wales, and it’s not hard to understand why. Not only does the island offer something for solo travellers, couples, families and groups of friends, but there’s plenty of things to do for your four-legged friend too. From nature reserves and wide open beaches, to exciting expeditions at sea, Anglesey is a playground for dogs. And luckily for you (and your pet), here at Plum Guide we have all the knowledge about the very best dog-friendly days out in this Welsh isle, so there's no danger of you or your canine companion missing out. Take a look at our expert guide to the best things to do in Anglesey with a dog.
Take a trip to Red Wharf Bay
Two small brown dogs running through sand on a beach
It goes without saying that one of the best things to do in Anglesey with a dog is to run around on a beach. There are numerous dog-friendly activities in Anglesey, but a trip to the beach, specifically Red Wharf Bay, is up there with the very best of them. Known as Traeth Coch in Welsh, the bay lies on the east coast of the island between the villages of Pentraeth and Benllech. Red Wharf Bay is a designated nature reserve with an abundance of birdlife, especially waders and waterfowl - just make sure there's no chance of the dog catching them. There’s even more wildlife in the salt marshes and sand dunes which border the beach, making for a great place to explore. The beach itself covers nearly 10 square miles, so there’s ample space for games or enjoying a paddle in the sea. Once you and your dog are all tired out, unwind with a bite to eat at the nearby dog-friendly pub, The Ship Inn.
Blackberries & Bloom, Plum Guide home in Anglesey, Wales
Explore Beaumaris Castle
Beaumaris Castle was supposed to be the pièce de résistance for Edward I in the 13th century, who had already built similar foundations in Conwy and Caernarfon. But lack of funding and trouble brewing in Scotland meant that Beaumaris became the castle that never was. Today, it’s an impressive semi-finished ruin and a playground for your furry-friend. There is the entire ground floor and all of the outdoor areas to explore, so there’s more than enough to keep everyone entertained. Make your way through the spooky corridors and take in the weaponry room and the inner courtyard, as well as the rather romantic water-filled moat.
Dragonfly Days, Plum Guide home in Anglesey, UK
Grab a boat ride to Puffin Island
A puffin flying on a cloudy day at Puffin Island, Anglesey, Wales, UK
If you have a seafaring pet, then a boat trip to Puffin Island is one of the best things to do in Anglesey with your dog. Setting sail from the coastal town of Beaumaris, Seacoast Safaris runs leisurely cruises to Puffin Island, located at the north east entrance of the Menai Straits. Hop aboard to enjoy entertaining and informative commentary, helping you spot places of interest and learn all about the local history. Once home to the 6th-century St Seiriol’s monastery, the island is now a sanctuary for various breeding seabirds. As well as puffins, look out for kittiwakes, razorbills and black guillemot, as well as Atlantic grey seals, dolphins and porpoises. It’s not every day your dog gets to go to sea, so it’s a great day out for everyone - they might even make some new friends.
Iris Lakehouse, Plum Guide home in Anglesey, UK
Wander through the Newborough Forest
Who let the dogs out? You did, in the Newborough Forest. Forming the southernmost corner of Anglesey, this is a fantastic place for dogs (and humans) to run around. Made up of Corsican pine trees, the forest has a distinctly Mediterranean feel to it, helping make it another of the unmissable dog-friendly activities in Anglesey. Take one of the many footpaths which wind through the forest, and make your way out to the Warren. This is where you’ll find the sandy Llanddwyn Bay, as well as one of the largest and finest sand dune systems in Britain. The sand dunes are a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), shaped over thousands of years by the wind and sea. The beach has plenty of space for playing catch, although you may find yourself getting distracted by the spectacular views of Snowdonia National Park. The dog may not accept that as an excuse, however.
Stone Foot, Plum Guide home in Anglesey, Wales, UK
Enjoy a walk through the Dingle Nature Reserve
A close up of a black, white and red woodpecker on a tree
If you’re after a day of exploring, look no further than the Dingle Nature Reserve. Set over 25 acres, this valley boasts tons of space for walkies. Admire the bluebells and wood anemones carpeting the ancient woodland floor, as you stroll along the meandering paths without a care in the world (except maybe the whereabouts of your canine companion). The River Cefni runs through the Dingle, splitting it in two, and you'll find a wooden boardwalk winding along the river - so it’s accessible to those with pushchairs and wheelchairs. The nature reserve is rich in wildlife, and you may spot kingfishers, herons, red squirrels, foxes, woodpeckers, and even bats. For this reason, make sure that your dog is kept on a lead at all times - you don't want to be that person. The Dingle is right by the market town of Llangefni, which is a great spot to grab a drink and a well-deserved post-walk treat.
Head down to the Holyhead Breakwater Country Park
The Holyhead Breakwater Country Park is another marvellous place for a doggy day out. Situated next to the port town of Holyhead, the park is built on the site of a former quarry, so learn more about the wildlife and industrial heritage of the park as you bask in its serenity - the information centre and outdoor exhibits are the places to go for that. From here, take a walk to Llyn Llwynog, a lake where you can fish or watch the model boats. The park is a great place for birdwatching, and you can spot peregrine falcons and choughs swooping above the quarry (chihuahuas watch out). Venture down the Rocky Coast and savour the incredible coastal scenery, snapping candid pictures of your oblivious pup at every opportunity. There are some trails which take you through heather and gorse expanses - ideal for hide and seek with your four-legged friend. Other trails lead up to Holyhead Mountain and South Stack, both of which are must-sees on your trip to Anglesey.
