It is the seventh largest island in the British Isles
Llanddwyn Island, Anglesey(Image: Getty Images )
A stunning island just over two hours from Liverpool offers sandy beaches, dramatic scenery and a peaceful escape that feels far removed from city life. Just off the coast of North Wales, the Isle of Anglesey is one of the UK’s most beautiful coastal destinations, known for its sweeping shorelines, hidden coves and laid-back atmosphere.
Covering around 275 square miles, it is the seventh largest island in the British Isles, yet still has a reputation for being quiet and unspoilt in many areas.
With its wild scenery and reported community spirit, Anglesey has been gaining recognition nationally. It was recently named one of the best places to live in the UK for 2026 by The Sunday Times, alongside other spots including Merseyside’s very own Aigburth.
The Sunday Times describes Aberffraw, Benllech and Trearddur Bay as “lively” seaside villages, with “wildness and warm community spirit” to be found in more remote corners of the island.
It also describes the town of Menai Bridge as home to the island’s best shops and restaurants with views that are a “delight”,
The town lies next to the iconic Menai Suspension Bridge, which celebrates its 200th anniversary this year. Designed by Thomas Telford, the bridge stretches 1,265ft and remains one of the most recognisable landmarks in the region.
The Menai Suspension Bridge, Anglesey (Image: Ian Cooper/North Wales Live)
Anglesey’s coastline stretches for around 125 miles, so beaches are never far away either. Near the town of Aberffraw, Traeth Mawr is a standout, with wide sands, rolling dunes and views across the sea. It also connects to the Anglesey Coastal Path, which winds around much of the island and offers some of its best scenery.
Further along the coast, Beaumaris offers a more traditional seaside feel, with pastel-coloured buildings lining the waterfront. The town is home to Beaumaris Castle, a striking medieval fortress built by Edward I. Although never fully completed, its near-perfect symmetry and towering walls still make it one of the most impressive castles in the UK. Beaumaris is also described as the island’s “artistic anchor”.
One of the island’s most scenic spots is Newborough Beach, leading to the tidal Llanddwyn Island. With golden sands, rocky outcrops and far-reaching views, it is also steeped in legend, with the remains of a church dedicated to St Dwynwen, Wales’ patron saint of lovers.
The island was also praised for its mix of rolling green countryside and dramatic coastal views, with the mountains of Snowdonia visible across the water.
Just behind the dunes, Newborough Forest adds another layer to the landscape, with towering pines and winding trails. It is also one of the best places in the region to spot red squirrels, reintroduced to the area in the early 2000s.
Naturally, The Sunday Times guide is designed to showcase places to live and it highlights the average house price is £270,500. However, at just over a two-hour drive from Liverpool, it is worth a visit even if you’re not ready to commit to life on the island.
With lively seaside villages like Benllech and Trearddur Bay plus quieter, more remote corners, Anglesey offers a mix of scenery and atmosphere that makes it ideal for a weekend escape.