Breakwater park view
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Soldiers Point House Ruins

4.7
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore Europe's longest breakwater, hike Holyhead Mountain, and spot seals in this stunning Welsh coastal park.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, calmer seas

CrowdLow
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Breakwater park view

Soldiers Point House Ruins

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, calmer seas

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Europe's longest breakwater, hike Holyhead Mountain, and spot seals in this stunning Welsh coastal park.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"The waves crashing on the breakwater and different hues of blue on the sea where fabulous in the sun."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Paths can be uneven and windy, especially on Holyhead Mountain. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable walk.

Check cafe hours :coffee:

The cafe and visitor center may have limited opening times, so plan accordingly for refreshments.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Holyhead Breakwater

Holyhead Breakwater

Coastal Park

Europe's longest breakwater offers dramatic sea views and a bracing walk against the elements.

Coastal Trails

Coastal Trails

Coastal Park

Scenic walking routes with stunning views, suitable for buggies and offering glimpses of grey seals.

Holyhead Mountain

Holyhead Mountain

Adjacent to Coastal Park

Challenging hikes to the summit provide panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and beyond.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. Early mornings offer calmer conditions and better chances for wildlife sightings. Check the weather forecast, as strong winds can impact your experience on the breakwater.

Parking and Facilities

Parking fees apply, typically around £6 for 4 hours, though some opt for free roadside parking. Facilities like the cafe and visitor center may have limited hours, so check in advance. Free toilets are available.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, calmer seas
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Warmer weather, good for picnics
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍 Holyhead Breakwater Country Park / Parc Morglawdd Caergybi, a stunning stretch along the @WalesCoastPath on the west of Ynys Môn. 🥂 Stop by the Harbour Front Bistro in Holyhead for delicious food and a drink with a view 😍 #Cymru #Wales #WalesCoastPath #UkTravel #Hiking #Walking #staycation #TravelTikTok #Summer #BeachBar #Views
@visitwales
6.5K likes • 148.8K views

Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Paths can be uneven and windy, especially on Holyhead Mountain. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable walk.

Check cafe hours :coffee:

The cafe and visitor center may have limited opening times, so plan accordingly for refreshments.

reddit.com

Where is best for a couple day hiking visit, Holyhead or Llandudno?

reddit.com

Cool Wales facts?

Seal spotting :seal:

Keep an eye out for grey seals in the cove just off the breakwater, especially during calmer weather.

Parking strategy :car:

Consider parking closer to the breakwater if you have less time, or the main car park for mountain routes.

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Paths can be uneven and windy, especially on Holyhead Mountain. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable walk.

Check cafe hours :coffee:

The cafe and visitor center may have limited opening times, so plan accordingly for refreshments.

Seal spotting :seal:

Keep an eye out for grey seals in the cove just off the breakwater, especially during calmer weather.

Parking strategy :car:

Consider parking closer to the breakwater if you have less time, or the main car park for mountain routes.

Use navigation apps :iphone:

Trails on Holyhead Mountain can be confusing; apps like Alltrails are recommended for route guidance.

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the stunning coastal views, invigorating breakwater walk, and the opportunity for wildlife spotting, particularly grey seals. Families appreciate the play areas and open spaces for picnics. However, some find the parking fees expensive, especially when facilities like the cafe are closed, and the mountain trails can be challenging.

"Beautiful spot and some reasonably accessible walking routes with a buggy. Kids explored the good quality play area and history bits before we headed past the fishing/duck pond and down the main road to the breakwater. We didn't reach all the way to the lighthouse as the wind was 40-50mph but got a good half way, the walk back against the wind was a bit more strenuous than going so consider that if you're not too fit. We spent a lot of time at the cove just to the side of the breakwater and even saw a grey seal. We went up onto the headland from the cove beach which gave great views and you can see the pathway back up to the car park/cafe/play area. The waves crashing on the breakwater and different hues of blue on the sea where fabulous in the sun.
Parking was £6/4hrs and the toilets are free. The cafe also has its own small play area. There are nice mosaics dotted about and a gallery under the big chimney stack. People were parking for free on the road nearer to the breakwater but £6 for 4 hrs wasn't unreasonable at all given the facilities there. We didn't mind the walk but if you're not staying long then maybe park closer to the breakwater/harbour but if you're looking at the mountain routes then the main car park is a good option."

Lil

"Expensive parking for closed cafe and tiny pond.
However you pay to walk Holyhead Mountain really. I'll review this separately.
This is what we came here for and was a very nice walk.
Amazing views from all around Holyhead. You can see the Isle of Man easily. Loads of paths all over the mountain but easy to take the wrong one, so i would advise to follow a route. We used the Alltrails app."

Tracy Sweetman

"Car park and toilets were open but cafe closed, and the visitor centre was shut when we finished our walk at 3pm... An expensive car park when the country park facilities are closed at open prices (prices up to £10 for parking)...

The walk onto nearby Holyhead mountain was nice though, albeit challenging at times especially to the summit."

Gary S

What People Like

Spectacular sea views
Invigorating breakwater walk
Wildlife spotting opportunities

What People Dislike

Expensive parking fees
Variable cafe hours
Challenging mountain trails

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The park is located in Holyhead, Anglesey. You can reach it by car via the A55. Public transport options include local bus services that stop near the park. Parking is available on-site, with fees typically charged.

Yes, local bus services operate in Holyhead and can take you close to the park entrance. It's advisable to check the latest bus schedules for routes and timings.

From the A55, follow signs for Holyhead. The park is well-signposted once you are in the town. The main car park is a good starting point for exploring the area.

Some visitors mention finding free parking on the road nearer to the breakwater, though this may be limited. The official car park has a fee but offers closer access to facilities.

There are some reasonably accessible walking routes, particularly around the play area and fishing pond. However, the breakwater and mountain trails can be strenuous.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the park itself is generally free, but there is a charge for parking. Parking fees can vary, with some reviews mentioning rates around £6 for 4 hours, and potentially higher for longer stays.

The park is typically open year-round during daylight hours. However, specific facilities like the cafe and visitor center may have limited opening times, so it's best to check in advance.

No, advance booking is not usually required for general entry to the park. Parking is paid on-site, and facilities like the cafe operate on a walk-in basis.

Information on discounts is not widely available. It's recommended to check the official park website or inquire on-site if you are eligible for any concessions.

Some visitors have reported issues with parking meters not accepting card or contactless payments. It's advisable to have some cash on hand as a backup for parking fees.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Key attractions include the impressive Holyhead Breakwater, scenic coastal walking trails, a children's play area, a fishing lake, and the opportunity to hike Holyhead Mountain for panoramic views. You might also spot wildlife like grey seals.

There are various trails, from easy, accessible routes around the lake and play area to more challenging hikes up Holyhead Mountain. Coastal paths offer spectacular sea views.

Yes, visitors have reported seeing grey seals in the cove near the breakwater. Birdwatching opportunities are also present, especially around the lake and coastal areas.

The park features a good quality play area for children. The cafe also has its own small play area, and the open spaces are great for picnics and running around.

The terrain varies. The paths around the lake and play area are relatively flat and accessible. Coastal paths can be uneven, and the hike up Holyhead Mountain is challenging with steep sections.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There is a cafe located within the park, which offers food and drinks. However, reviews indicate that the cafe may have limited opening hours or be closed at times, so it's wise to check beforehand.

Absolutely! The park offers plenty of open space, making it an ideal location for picnics. Many visitors enjoy bringing their own food to enjoy with the scenic views.

Besides the park's cafe, there are dining options available in Holyhead town center, including the Harbour Front Bistro mentioned in some travel content, offering food with a view.

The cafe is the primary place to purchase snacks and drinks. If the cafe is closed, it's recommended to bring your own refreshments.

The Harbour Front Bistro in Holyhead is mentioned as a good spot for food and drinks with a view, particularly for those exploring the coastal path.

📸 📸 Photography

The breakwater itself offers dramatic shots with crashing waves. The headland provides great panoramic views of the coastline and sea. The mosaics dotted around the park also make for interesting close-up shots.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the breakwater and sea views. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting wildlife like seals. Consider a sturdy tripod if you plan to shoot during sunrise or sunset.

Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but dramatic skies can still provide good photo opportunities.

While the 'ruins' aspect might be less prominent, the historical elements like the large chimney stack and mosaics offer unique photographic subjects within the park.

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check local bylaws and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone in the park or surrounding areas.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families will find plenty to keep children entertained at Holyhead Breakwater Country Park. The well-maintained play area is a major draw, offering a safe space for kids to run and play. The open fields are ideal for picnics and casual games. For a more relaxed experience, the fishing/duck pond offers a gentle walk and a chance to see waterfowl. Keep an eye out for grey seals in the cove near the breakwater – a thrilling sight for little ones! Reddit

While the breakwater walk is manageable, the hike up Holyhead Mountain might be too challenging for very young children. However, the accessible paths around the main park area are suitable for buggies. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as the cafe's opening hours can be variable. The mosaics scattered throughout the park can also add a fun element of discovery for kids.

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For those who love to hike, Holyhead Mountain is a must-do. The trails offer varying levels of difficulty, with the summit providing spectacular panoramic views.Reddit Use navigation apps like Alltrails to explore the network of paths safely. The coastal paths along the breakwater and surrounding headlands offer stunning sea vistas and opportunities for birdwatching. Don't forget to look for grey seals in the cove near the breakwater – a highlight for many visitors.Reddit

Be prepared for the weather, as it can be exposed and windy. Sturdy footwear is essential, especially for the mountain trails. The breakwater itself provides a unique and invigorating walk, showcasing the power of the sea. The diverse terrain ensures there's a route for most fitness levels, from gentle coastal strolls to more demanding mountain ascents.

💰 Budget Travelers

While parking has a fee (around £6 for 4 hours), the park itself is free to enter, making it an affordable option for a day out. Many visitors opt for free roadside parking if available, though this can be limited. The best way to save money is to pack your own picnic and snacks, as the cafe can add to expenses. The main attractions – the breakwater walk, coastal views, and hiking Holyhead Mountain – are all free activities that offer immense value.

Focus on enjoying the natural beauty and the extensive walking trails. The stunning scenery and fresh sea air are the main draws, and these come at no extra cost. If you're looking for a budget-friendly yet rewarding experience, this park offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the Welsh coast without breaking the bank.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Holyhead Breakwater

The Holyhead Breakwater is a remarkable feat of engineering, stretching for over 2.7 km (1.7 miles) and serving as the longest in the UK. Built between 1845 and 1873, it was designed to create a safe harbor for ships, particularly for the Royal Navy. Walking along its length offers a truly immersive experience, with the powerful waves of the Irish Sea crashing against its sides. The views from the breakwater are expansive, stretching across to the mountains of Snowdonia on a clear day, and you can often spot the Isle of Man in the distance.

Visitors often describe the walk as bracing and invigorating, especially when the wind picks up. It's a popular spot for both leisurely strolls and more determined walks. Be prepared for the elements, as it can be exposed and windy. The breakwater provides a unique perspective on the coastline and the sheer force of nature. It's a place where you can feel a sense of history and the raw beauty of the Welsh coast.

From the breakwater, you can also access a cove just to the side, which has been known to be a spot for grey seal sightings. This adds an element of wildlife watching to the experience. The breakwater is a central feature of the Holyhead Breakwater Country Park, making it a must-see for anyone visiting the area.TikTok

Hiking Holyhead Mountain

For those seeking a more active adventure, Holyhead Mountain offers a rewarding hiking experience. The summit provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding coastline, the Irish Sea, and even Ireland on a very clear day. The mountain is crisscrossed with various paths, some of which can be challenging, so it's advisable to use a navigation app like Alltrails to ensure you stay on track.Reddit The terrain can be steep and rocky in places, requiring sturdy footwear and a reasonable level of fitness.

Despite the challenge, reaching the summit is a significant accomplishment and offers unparalleled vistas. The walk can be strenuous, especially when walking against the wind, so factor this into your planning. The views from the top are a fantastic reward for the effort. It's a popular route for locals and visitors alike, offering a different perspective of Anglesey compared to the coastal paths.

When planning your hike, consider the weather conditions. Strong winds can make the ascent more difficult. The trails are well-trodden, but the sheer number of paths can be confusing for first-time visitors. The experience of conquering Holyhead Mountain and taking in the vast, sweeping views is often highlighted as a memorable part of a visit to the area.

Family Fun and Wildlife Spotting

Holyhead Breakwater Country Park is a great destination for families, offering a mix of activities and natural beauty. The park features a good quality play area where children can burn off energy, and the cafe also has a small play space. The open grounds are perfect for picnics, allowing families to relax and enjoy the surroundings. The fishing/duck pond provides a calm area for a gentle stroll and observing waterfowl.

Beyond the play areas, the park offers opportunities for wildlife spotting. Visitors have reported seeing grey seals in the cove adjacent to the breakwater, which can be an exciting experience for children and adults alike. The coastal paths also offer chances to see various seabirds. The mosaics dotted around the park add an artistic element that can engage younger visitors.

While the breakwater walk and mountain hikes can be more strenuous, the accessible routes within the park make it enjoyable for families with buggies or younger children. The combination of play facilities, open spaces, and potential wildlife encounters makes it a well-rounded family outing.

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