Holyhead

Wind whips across the harbour as ferries lumber towards Ireland, their horns echoing off the stark cliffs that frame this working port town. Holyhead sits at the very edge of Wales, perched on Holy Island with all the rough-edged charm of a place that's seen centuries of maritime drama.

The town feels properly Welsh despite its ferry-port bustle. Holyhead Breakwater Country Park offers brilliant walks along what was once the world's longest breakwater - cracking views across to the Irish Sea and back towards Snowdonia on clear days. It's a proper windswept adventure, mind you.

History buffs will appreciate the ancient stones at Meini Hirion Penrhosfeilw and the remains of Castell, though both require a bit of local knowledge to find. More accessible is a wander around Pwll Clai, where the water reflects whatever mood the Anglesey sky happens to be in.

Getting here means crossing the Menai Strait from mainland Wales - the A55 brings you straight to the island, though the final stretch to Holyhead can feel like driving to the end of the world. Which, in a sense, you are.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense if you're using Holyhead as your Anglesey base. You're close enough to catch early ferries to Dublin or explore the island's quieter corners, yet far enough from the ferry terminal chaos to actually relax. The Range provides decent enough shopping for basics, while Capel Tabor offers a glimpse into the island's chapel culture if you're interested in local heritage.