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This is the largest town of Anglesey, but is actually located on Holy Island just off the larger island’s west coast. The discovery of a mammoth skull indicates animal life existed here for tens of thousands of years. The number of burial chambers and other structures suggest human population dating back to 3000 BC. Around 300 BC, the Druid peoples moved into the area and eventually populated all of Anglesey.
The Romans invaded the area in 60 AD with plans to conquer Anglesey and annihilate the Druids. Romans established a naval fort on Holyhead to protect the new territory from invaders, who included Irish pirates. St. Cybi established a monastery within the fort once the Roman nation left the region.
Prince Llewelyn captured Holyhead and Anglesey for the kingdom of Gwynedd around the year 1200. However, by 1284, the territory came under the rule of Rhuddlan. In the 1700s, the community built a salt extracting industry off the coast of the island. During the last quarter of the century, a mail coach developed between Holyhead and London.
By 1801, the population rose to 2,132 and in the next couple of decades; a constructed embankment connected Holy Island with Anglesey. The harbour gained an automated lighthouse in 1832 and railway service in 1848.
Holyhead established an aluminium smelting industry in 1971. An expressway spanning from Britannia Bridge to Holyhead opened in 2001.
Activities and Attractions
Holyhead grew around the St. Cybi’s Church, which was founded within the walls of the old Roman fort. Visitors explore the remaining fort walls and towers, which also contain a detached 14th century chapel. The chapel was reportedly constructed over the grave of St. Cybi. The saint established a church here in the middle of the 6th century. The structure endured damage from various attacks from Vikings and the English. The current building was constructed in the 1100s, but contains repairs and additions dating to the 1500s. The stone church has interesting architecture on the exterior and elaborate stone carvings and stained glass windows on the interior.
Other historic points of interest include the Ty Mawr Hut Circles, located on South Stack Island, which date from the Neolithic era to the end of the Roman occupation. Nearby, the mysterious Penrhos Feilw Standing Stones climb to a height of about 10 feet (3 metres).
While in this location, known as South Stack, visitors may explore the historic lighthouse. Climb to the top of the structure for spectacular views over the harbour. The Holyhead Maritime Museum explains the history of the harbour, which includes situations encountered by divers and ships.
Holyhead has amazing beaches and the opportunity to enjoy boating, canoeing and other water activities. The harbour also provides ferry service to Dublin.
Places to Stay and Dining
While visiting Holyhead, guests may opt to stay at hotels located on the edge of the marina. Facilities lie within walking distance of beaches and Holyhead Mountain. Witness amazing sunsets or colourful sunrises from the comfort of an affordable, modern room.
At Mala’s Bistro, guests enjoy cuisine from around the world. Main meals include Devil Chicken, lamb curry or king prawns in a specially seasoned tomato sauce. Vegetarian options include Chinese vegetable stir-fry with rice or creamy cheese and spinach lasagne.
Accommodation in Holyhead
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