Hen Borth, near South Stack, has always been something of a local secretOwen Hughes Daily Post chief reporter and Hannah Rees Social Media Editor
10:55, 30 Sep 2025
‘Staircase to the Beach’ at Hen Borth near South Stack(Image: @westofanglesey Facebook page)
In today’s social media-driven world, there are few genuine “hidden gems” left, as platforms quickly expose once-quiet secret locations. However, one cove spot on Anglesey remains relatively undiscovered, and access difficulties mean it will never draw massive crowds.
Hen Borth, situated near South Stack (not to be mistaken for another Hen Borth beach close to Cemlyn), has long been somewhat of a local secret. Access has always proved challenging, but this became even more difficult when the old wooden steps and ladder leading down to the cove deteriorated beyond use.
However, these have now been replaced with new metal stairs that have reopened the location – though that doesn’t make it straightforward to reach. Another factor preventing it from becoming overwhelmed is that this isn’t your typical sandy shoreline – the kind of spot where social media influencers apply filters and draw comparisons to tropical destinations, reports North Wales Live.
‘Staircase to the Beach’ at Hen Borth near South Stack (Image: @westofanglesey Facebook page)
It features a coastline of rocks and shingle – an ideal location for exploration but perhaps not a sunbather’s paradise.
The location does create cherished memories for those who manage the trip down – one visitor recently described the spot as “magic” while another reviewer dubbed the path down a “stairway to heaven”.
The popular Facebook page West of Anglesey: Ynys Cybi – Holy Island recently posted photographs from the cove showing the new staircase in position. They said: “Staircase to the Beach: Hen Borth. It’s a steep descent to this secluded rocky cove which is now more manageable thanks to this impressive staircase.
“Fabricated, galvanised and fitted by local firm Gray’s Steel Fabrication Ltd, it replaces a set of wooden steps/ladder which over the years had fallen into a state of disrepair.
“Hen Borth is a delight – a fine collection of rocks and boulders, towering cliffs with interesting rock formations and views along the coast towards South Stack and ‘The Range’.”
‘Staircase to the Beach’ at Hen Borth near South Stack (Image: @westofanglesey Facebook page)
They did warn however: “Despite improvements in access, caution is needed on this route – it is more a scramble than a walk but worth a visit if you’re able to do so.
“From Henborth y Twr ( bottom of South Stack Road) a (muddy) footpath runs besides a stream continuing as a narrow uneven track to steps and the staircase which zig zags down the cliff face into this cove.”
The photographs prompted enthusiastic responses from those familiar with the cove and curiosity from those discovering this hidden treasure.
One person said: “Aww I used to love going down there on the rope. It added to the fun.”
Another added: “Went here a lot in school holidays, was an iffy way to climb down then but this is magic.”
Another warned it remained a challenging spot, saying: “Climbed this with my dog many times, just be aware it can get very slippy at times.”