Anglesey, the idyllic island off the coast of North Wales, has been named one of the best places to visit in the UK for 2026 by Time Out, ranking eighth on the list. The island, accessed via a 19th-century suspension bridge, beat out major Welsh cities like Cardiff and Swansea, earning praise for its beaches, nature walks, and culinary scene.
Time Out's 'Must-Visit' List
At the beginning of the year, Time Out released its definitive 'must-visit' list, featuring 14 UK towns, cities, and villages. Some destinations earned their spots through exciting new attractions or groundbreaking cultural events, while others, like Anglesey, were noted for their 'quiet brilliance'. The island is a true reflection of Wales at its finest, encapsulating the country's best features across culture, history, and natural landscapes.
Natural Beauty and Beaches
Anglesey is a designated national landscape (formerly Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty). One of its highlights is Benllech Beach, a Blue Flag-awarded beach known for its golden sands and shallow waters. At low tide, the sand stretches for miles, making it a popular spot for family days out, swimming, sunbathing, and walking. A recent visitor shared on TripAdvisor: 'The beach is stunning. The sand is clean, golden and the sea a gorgeous colour. Had two wonderful walks around by it, great coastal walks. Do check the tide as it comes in fast, as we discovered.'
The Dingle Nature Reserve, also known as Nant y Pandy, is a 25-acre wooded valley perfect for bird-watching, flower-spotting, and long walks. Wildlife thrives there, with frogs, dragonflies, beetles, slugs, trout, and sometimes foxes.
Culinary Scene
Time Out highlighted Anglesey's culinary world, noting its historical reputation as the 'bread basket of Cymru' due to its fertile land. The island's restaurants feature locally-sourced menus, including Sosban & the Old Butchers, a rustic Michelin-starred spot. Other recommendations include Tavern on the Bay, offering spectacular coastal views and 'elevated comfort food', and The Stores in Trearddur Bay, serving 'brilliant' pizza and small plates with regular DJ nights.
Heritage and Accommodation
Time Out specifically noted Beaumaris Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dubbed the 'greatest castle never built', as an unmissable site. For accommodation, they listed Château Rhianfa as the ultimate staycation destination, featuring a Grade II-listed villa with its own private beach.
