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The hamlet lies west of Llanfair PG and northeast of Llanfefni. Gaerwen translated means “white fort” leaving many to believe the Romans had a fort or watchtower here at one time. Ancient peoples lived in Gaerwen, as evidenced by the number of burial sites and mysterious rock standings, which date to 3000 BC. Farming and raising livestock were mainstays of the community from feudal times to the present.
The township has small groups of farms that cover the predominantly flat landscape, along with areas of wetlands. Gaerwen continues the age old tradition of weekly markets, retailing fresh produce and livestock. By the end of the 1700s, the community constructed a windmill and another in the early 1800s. Today, both remain standing, but neither functions.
Coal mining became another means of support and a method for heating homes. A main highway runs through Gaerwen. Travel from one place to another involved journeying by coach or horse and wagon. Gaerwen had railway access and a station in the late 1800s. The line ran from Bangor to Holyhead. Passenger service discontinued in 1966, but freight lines continued until 1984. Currently, private taxi companies provide public transportation when necessary.
Gaerwen developed an industrial complex in the southwest portion of the village. Here all manner of manufacturing occurs.
Activities and Attractions
Various self-guided and guided walking tours around the area take guests to sites having reputed hauntings and histories of heinous crimes. Some report the appearance of a mysterious Viking ghost ship in the local marshlands.
Self-guided and guided tours also take history buffs to explore the many archaeological oddities of the area. The Bryn Celli Ddu Burial Chamber, an earthen mound like structure, has a stone laden entrance. Visitors may enter the chamber and learn the story of the ancient people once buried here.
The centre of Gaerwen has a memorial garden commemorating those who lost their lives during the war.
Venture from the village centre to historic coalmines. Hear the tales about the miners and the often time dangerous occupation.
Family outings include a visit to nearby Brynsiencyn and the island’s sea zoo. Anglesey Sea Zoo contains a large variety of marine life ranging from crustaceans to sharks. See divers interact and feed the fish in specially designed ocean environs. The facility also has a Pirate’s Playground filled with equipment, a bouncy house and a crazy golf course. All can relax and enjoy refreshments at the café. Golf fanciers can sneak in a few holes at the nearby Penrhyn Golf Club.
Places to Stay and Dining
Gaerwen hotels include family operated facilities providing rooms for singles or families. Some hotels have game rooms with arcade games and billiard tables. Enjoy a buffet meal in the restaurant or have a BBQ on the patio.
The Tafarn Y Gors restaurant and pub provides a wide selection of lunch and dinner meals, or guests may enjoy an ale and have fun in the game room. Grab a quick soup and sandwich or dine on main courses that include chicken breast stuffed with herbed cream cheese served on rice with a creamy herb sauce. Have a thick, juicy Welsh steak with all the trimmings.
Accommodation in Gaerwen
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