Anglesey: The Perfect Holiday Destination for Dog Owners
- Writers at Buddy & Co
- Jun 12
- 4 min read
Guest Writer: @waggle.with.marley
I’ve lived in the UK for nearly a decade now, and places like the Isle of Anglesey remind me exactly why I left the dramatic Italian Alps for the gentle charm of the British countryside. Anglesey, perched on the northeastern edge of Wales, sits between the wild Irish Sea and the breathtaking peaks of Snowdonia National Park. The moment you cross one of the two bridges over the swirling Menai Strait, something shifts — the pace of life slows, the air feels lighter, and a sense of calm begins to settle in. Exactly what the soul needs.
With 130 miles of coastline, designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and an abundance of historical sites, Anglesey is truly spellbinding. But what sets it apart for me is how incredibly dog-friendly it is.
Marley, my one-year-old spaniel, loved every minute of our four-day holiday in Anglesey. From sprinting across vast sandy beaches to joining us on hikes, castle visits, and even a bit of paddleboarding, he was fully in his element. And after a long day of exploring, there’s nothing better than settling into a warm pub with a crackling fire, a hearty meal, and a happy dog snoozing under the table. Luckily, Anglesey is not short on dog-friendly pubs. In fact, I think the real challenge is finding a pub that isn’t dog-friendly (sorry, not sorry…).
Dog Walks Worth Wagging About
1. Newborough Beach and Forest
You’ve probably seen it on countless social media posts, but believe me when I say it lives up to the Insta-hype. The sweet scent of Corsican pine trees combined with the sound of waves crashing onto the sand creates a perfect Mediterranean illusion. After a peaceful stroll through the forest, we followed the seashell path to the iconic lighthouse on Llanddwyn Island, where we were lucky enough to spot some of the wild ponies that live there.
Note: Dogs are not allowed on the western part of the beach year-round, so do check seasonal restrictions before visiting.
2. South Stack and Holyhead Mountain Circular
This dramatic coastal walk is a must if you’re after big views, fresh sea air, and a real sense of Anglesey’s wild side. We started at the iconic South Stack Lighthouse, perched high on the cliffs, then followed the rugged path along the coastline toward Holyhead Mountain and on to North Stack. The 9km circular route took us about 2–3 hours, and we looped back just in time to watch the sun melt into the sea behind the lighthouse — the perfect ending to a magical day.
3. Cemlyn Shingle and Headland Walk
Tucked away on Anglesey’s northwestern coast, Cemlyn offers rocky coves, tidal lagoons, and an abundance of wildlife. We walked the 6km trail in spring, spotting butterflies, seabirds, and rare coastal plants along the way.
Be sure to check the tides before you go, as the area is prone to flooding.
4. Red Wharf Bay and Pentraeth Forest
If your dog needs room to run, Red Wharf Bay delivers. At low tide, the beach stretches for miles and is a haven for waterfowl. We combined it with a walk through Pentraeth Forest — a peaceful trail that offers gorgeous views back over the bay.
Adventures & Activities
1. Beaumaris Castle and the Castle Gardens
Known as the “greatest castle never built,” Beaumaris is a moated medieval wonder. Marley was welcome in the outdoor areas and on the ground floor, so he happily explored the castle grounds with us. Don’t miss the nearby Castle Gardens — a charming nursery and hidden gem just behind Beaumaris High Street.
2. Watersports in Rhosneigr
Rhosneigr is a magnet for water lovers, with options for surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and more. Equipment rentals and beginner lessons are easy to find, so we hired some paddleboards — and Marley braved it with us for the first time!
We wrapped up with a seafood feast at The Oystercatcher, one of the best spots on the island.
3. Cruise to Puffin Island
Okay, confession: we didn’t manage to get on the cruise this time (top tip — book early!), but it remains high on our wish list, so I thought I’d include it. Dogs are welcome aboard, and the wildlife sightings — from seals to seabirds and the occasional puffin — sound magical.
4. Parys Mountain
Like something straight out of a sci-fi film, Parys Mountain is a former copper mine turned surreal hiking landscape. The ground is streaked with vivid shades of orange, red, and purple — a legacy of centuries of mining — creating a scene that feels more Martian than Welsh. Several easy-to-follow trails wind through the strange terrain, offering dramatic views and an otherworldly sense of quiet.
Dog-Friendly Dining
Whether you’re after a cozy fireside meal or a breezy seaside lunch, you’ll find no shortage of pubs and restaurants where dogs are warmly welcomed. Here are some of our favourites, grouped by region:
West: The Oystercatcher (Rhosneigr), The White Eagle (Rhoscolyn)
South: The Crown (Aberffraw), Dylan’s (Menai Bridge)
East: Ship Inn (Red Wharf Bay), Pebble’s Bistro (Benllech)
North: Stag Inn (Cemaes Bay), Dinorben Arms (Amlwch)
Centre: Tafarn Y Rhos, The Bull Hotel (Llangefni)
This trip was shared by Izzy, the creator behind @waggle.with.marley where she highlights the best dog friendly stays and outdoor adventures across the UK including where to dine if you're heading to Anglesey.
If you're planning your next adventure with your pup, her page is packed with photos and videos showcasing dog friendly stays and inspiring places to explore together.
Holiday Destination for Dog Owners
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