Looking to swap the hustle and bustle of the city for some fresh sea air? Manchester might not be the nearest city to the coast, but if you’re after a bit of escapism during the summer, then a visit to the seaside is a must. The Times recently unveiled its list of the best beaches in the UK, and one of them happens to be the stunning Newborough Beach on the south coast of Anglesey, Wales, which is just a two-hour drive from Greater Manchester and has plenty to offer for a great day trip or weekend getaway.
What makes Newborough one of the best beaches in the UK
The Times praised the beach in Newborough (Niwbwrch) for having “some of the prettiest sunrises” from Llanddwyn Island (Ynys Llanddwyn): the rocky peninsula at the left-hand side of Newborough beach. These sunrises are said to have drawn more and more people to the Twr Mawr Lighthouse in the early hours, all “awaiting the life-affirming moment when the sun rises over Eryri (Snowdonia) and sends a path of gold across Caernarfon Bay”. The beach also has a water quality score of three stars, which is considered excellent.
Things to do in Newborough
Newborough is best known for its sweeping sandy beach (which is also dog-friendly), extensive pine forest, and the tidal island of Ynys Llanddwyn. This area of Wales boasts a great mix of wildlife, walking trails, and rugged coastal scenery.
Ynys Llanddwyn
When in Newborough, it’s highly recommended to take a walk across the sands of Llanddwyn Beach at low tide to explore this magical tidal island. It features Celtic ruins (St Dwynwen’s Church), charming lightkeepers’ cottages, and the striking Tŵr Mawr lighthouse, all offering panoramic views of Eryri (Snowdonia).
Newborough National Nature Reserve and Forest
At Newborough National Nature Reserve and Forest, you can discover one of the largest sand dune systems in Britain. You’ll also find a vast Corsican pine forest with miles of walking, running, and mountain biking trails. Be sure to keep an eye out for rare red squirrels near Llyn Parc Mawr too.
Anglesey Transport Museum and Cafe – Tacla Taid
At this museum, which is the largest of its kind in Wales, you can take a step back in time. Just a short drive from the beach, you’ll find vintage cars, bikes and farming vehicles set on a replica 1940s cobbled street.
How to get to Newborough Beach from Greater Manchester and parking
Newborough Beach is around a two-hour drive from Greater Manchester. The closest train stations are Bodorgan and Llanfairpwll, and you’ll then need to travel by local bus or taxi from there to get to the beach.
The main beach car park (LL61 6SG) uses an ANPR system. It costs around £5 for the first two hours (70p per additional 20 minutes) with a daily cap of up to £15. Because the tide isolates the island, be sure to check local tide times before setting out to Llanddwyn here.
