Holyhead

Ferry horns echo across the harbour as yet another crossing prepares for Dublin. That's Holyhead for you - Wales's westernmost town and the gateway to Ireland, where the pace quickens around sailing times then settles back into a quieter rhythm.

The town wraps around its working port, but don't let the industrial edge fool you. Holy Island, as the locals call it, has proper rugged beauty once you venture beyond the ferry terminals. Parc Arfordirol Penrhos Coastal Park stretches along the northern shore, offering coastal walks with views across to Ireland on clear days. It's a lovely spot for bird watching, particularly during migration seasons.

South Stack, just a few miles out, draws most visitors with its lighthouse and RSPB reserve. The cliff-top walks are spectacular, though they're a bit of a trek from town. Much closer lies Private Beach - not as exclusive as the name suggests, just a quieter stretch of sand away from the main harbour bustle.

Holyhead sits at the end of the A55, making it easily accessible by car. The train line terminates here too, with direct services from London taking about four and a half hours. For those flying into Dublin, the ferry crossing takes just over three hours.

Basing yourself at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense. You're ideally placed for exploring Anglesey's western coastline while avoiding the higher prices of seaside accommodation. The town has enough pubs and shops to keep you supplied, and when the ferries aren't running, the harbour area takes on an almost Mediterranean calm - well, on a good day anyway.