How to get to Cemlyn Bay Nature Reserve
Getting to Cemlyn Bay Nature Reserve is easy, with multiple methods of transport to choose from.
A quick, convenient and environmentally friendly way to travel is to opt for the train. Holyhead train station is just 12 miles from Cemlyn Bay, Anglesey. Once at Holyhead, visitors can hop in a taxi or choose to take the bus from there. The Amlwch to Holyhead bus route stops at Tregele, which is around a 45-minute walk away.
Arriving at Holyhead by train is a breeze, with regular services from destinations like London, Chester and Llandudno. You will also find nearby plenty of the town’s facilities, like shops and cafes for a quick bite to eat before heading to the nature reserve.
If you’re arriving by car, there are two car parks available for use, one at each end of the main beach. It’s important to be aware that Cemlyn Bay car park is impacted by the tides, so check tide times before planning to drive to the site.
For any keen cyclists, National Cycle Network Route 566 also passes close by the reserve. Cycling to the site on a pleasant day is a particularly nice idea.
What to do at Cemlyn Bay Nature Reserve
One of North Wales Wildlife Trust’s star reserves, Cemlyn Bay Nature Reserve is a popular spot for all kinds of people. General visitors and tourists enjoy the reserve as much as birdwatchers and naturalists do.
Birdwatching at the reserve is a fascinating pastime all year round. In the summer, Cemlyn is the proud home to some of the most important tern colonies in Wales, like Sandwich Terns and Arctic Terns. In the colder months, expect winter waders.
A thriving ecosystem, there are plenty of other species to see here. Other exciting creatures can be spotted at the reserve throughout the year. These include common lizards, grey seals, harbour porpoises and bottlenose dolphins.
There are also various walking trails to explore at Cemlyn Bay Nature Reserve if you’d like to enjoy a scenic walk. Be warned though, walking the full length of the shingle ridge can be strenuous - so come prepared.
About Cemlyn Bay Nature Reserve
Cemlyn Bay Nature Reserve is described as ‘the jewel in the crown’ of Anglesey’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The reserve consists of an impressive lagoon, separated by the sea by a naturally formed shingle ridge.
At 25 hectares, there is plenty of beautiful space to discover at this natural attraction. Entry is free, and dogs are welcome to come along if kept on a lead, making it a great spot for dog walking.
One main aim of the nature reserve is conservation. Since nesting sites for terns are on the decline in Britain, Cemlyn focuses on their protection. Wardens are on site throughout the summer to protect colonies and monitor breeding success. Other groups like butterflies, reptiles and birds are also monitored.
In addition to the conservation work done here, the wildlife at Cemlyn has helped to provide an insight into how our coasts are changing. This is done by careful monitoring of the area’s wildlife - birds in particular. Wardens have monitored every summer since 1981, making this a long-running and important project.
Ways to save on your train ticket to Cemlyn Bay Nature Reserve
There are lots of ways to save on your travel to Cemlyn Bay Nature Reserve with the help of Avanti West Coast. Try a few of our tips when booking your train to Holyhead and see for yourself.
If you’re taking the whole family out for a day of nature exploration, consider a Family Train Ticket. This handy ticket type gives you big savings when travelling with little ones. Family groups from one adult and one child to a maximum of two adults and three children can save 1/3 on adult fares and 60% on children’s fares.
Never underestimate the savings power of a Railcard. With one, you can save 1/3 on train tickets, for the small cost of £30 a year. There are so many card options available, so be sure to check out the selection to find out what best suits you.
And don’t forget, often the simplest way to save money is to make sure that you book direct with Avanti. Not only do we guarantee you the best price, but you won’t pay a single penny in booking fees.
Get the app
Train travel just got even simpler with the Avanti West Coast app. This handy app allows you to find, book and track your journey with ease.
Changing your plans with the app is a breeze too, whether you need to change the time, date or seat of your booking. You can even upgrade to Standard Premium or First Class with a few taps.
Download the app today via Apple App Store or Google Play Store to discover the benefits.
