Highlight • Historical Site
Hiking
5.0
(12)
St Rhwydrus's Church is a captivating medieval church located on the remote northern coast of the Isle of Anglesey, Wales, near the village of Cemlyn. This historical site, standing at an elevation of approximately 8 meters above sea level, is a testament to centuries of Welsh heritage. Dating largely from the 12th and 13th centuries, with roots tracing back to a chapel established around 570 AD by Saint Rhwydrys, it holds a Grade II*-listed status, recognizing its significant architectural and…
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tirwedd Cenedlaethol Ynys Môn
Tips
November 20, 2019
Hiking
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near St Rhwydrus's Church
4.8
(5)
45
hikers
5.38km
01:24
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
33
hikers
21.4km
05:44
250m
250m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
hikers
17.9km
04:49
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 10 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Friday 10 April
9°C
6°C
38 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 55.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
St Rhwydrus's Church is situated in an isolated area and lacks direct road access. It is best reached on foot via a farm track, often as part of a walk along the Anglesey Coastal Path. Many visitors choose to incorporate it into a longer hike, starting from nearby villages or Cemlyn Bay.
There are no immediate parking facilities directly at St Rhwydrus's Church due to its remote location. Visitors typically park in nearby areas like Cemlyn Bay or other points along the Anglesey Coastal Path and then walk to the church. Planning your approach as part of a scenic walk is recommended.
The church is a popular stop along the Anglesey Coastal Path. You can access it via various sections of the path, offering different difficulty levels. A common approach is a circular walk starting from Cemlyn Bay, which provides stunning coastal views. The terrain is generally moderate, but preparing for varied coastal conditions is advisable.
While the church is always open, a winter visit can be challenging due to its exposed coastal location. The weather can be varied, with strong winds and rain possible. If visiting in winter, ensure you are well-prepared with appropriate waterproof and warm clothing, and check weather forecasts. The peaceful atmosphere remains, but the walk to access it might be more demanding.
The time needed to visit the church itself is relatively short, perhaps 30 minutes to an hour to explore the interior and churchyard. However, given its remote access, you should factor in significant time for the walk to and from the church. Depending on your starting point, a visit could easily become a 2-4 hour excursion or longer if combined with a substantial hike along the Anglesey Coastal Path.
St Rhwydrus's Church is in a very isolated area with no immediate amenities. For cafes, pubs, or accommodation, you would need to travel to nearby villages or towns on Anglesey. It's advisable to bring your own refreshments for your visit, especially if planning a longer walk.
Inside, be sure to notice the unusual roof supported by cruck timbers, a rare 18th-century gallery at the west end, and the ancient 12th-century rounded doorway and font. The interior is simply furnished but deeply atmospheric, offering a glimpse into centuries of history.
Due to its remote location and access via a farm track and coastal path, St Rhwydrus's Church is not wheelchair accessible. The terrain leading to the church is uneven and unpaved, making it unsuitable for wheelchairs or those with significant mobility challenges.
Yes, the trails around St Rhwydrus's Church, including sections of the Anglesey Coastal Path, are generally dog-friendly. However, please ensure your dog is kept on a lead, especially near livestock or nesting birds, and always clean up after your pet to preserve the natural environment.
The coastal location near Cemlyn Bay is known for its diverse wildlife. You might spot various seabirds, including terns (especially during nesting season at Cemlyn Bay Nature Reserve), choughs, and other coastal species. Keep an eye out for marine life in the bay and potentially seals along the coastline.
While St Rhwydrus's Church offers a unique sense of isolation, Anglesey is rich in historical sites. You might explore other ancient churches, standing stones, or historical landmarks along the Anglesey Coastal Path. For a similar remote, atmospheric experience, researching other small, medieval churches on the island could be rewarding.