Menai Bridge, nestled right on the Menai Straits, can be seen as
a gateway to Anglesey and is the perfect place to put on your 'to
visit' list. There really is something for everyone to enjoy! With
a wonderful community feel, heaps of history and heritage,
attractions, eateries and stunning scenery - you won't want for
anything whilst wandering around this small town. There are quaint
shops mixed with the usual local amenities and even one of Wales'
oldest art galleries.
Of course you can't talk about Menai Bridge without mentioning
its namesake, the famous suspension bridge. It is a spectacular
sight and seems to demand attention - and definitely lots of
photographs (I know I have a fair few from over the years!). The
bridge was built by Thomas Telford and was completed in 1826; at
which time it was the largest suspension bridge in the
world! Menai heritage celebrates both the bridges
that cross the Menai Straits and you can learn all about the the
building of the suspension bridge from the exhibition at
the Thomas Telford Centre.
If being out and about in nature is more your thing then walking
past Dylan's, a must eat as its sits right on the
Straits and can offer wonderful views, you can reach a promenade.
It is perfect for strolling around the Menai coast (part of the
Anglesey Coastal Path). You pass under an arch of the suspension
bridge revealing its true size - very impressive! The feat of
engineering building this structure nearly 200 years ago when you
think about it is incredible.
As you continue walking at the edge of the Menai Straits you
come across Church Island, probably the most famous island
of those dotting the Straits. Thought to date back to the 1400s
walking onto this island and stepping into the church is like
stepping back in time.
For the more adventurous amongst you I'd definitely suggest
taking an exhilarating tour down the Menai Straits with Rib Ride.
They offer a number of trips, as far afield as puffin island, and
they are a great way to learn more about the natural history of
Anglesey and see things from a new perspective. Wrap up though when
breaking those swells at high speed it can be breezy! The
adrenaline buzz you'll experience is definitely worth the money -
our customers can enjoy discounted Rib Rides.
If you'd rather keep your feet on dry land just a short drive
from the town itself is a rather well kept secret...Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens - 10 acres of
private countryside, a great place to spend the day exploring and a
'must visit' for any gardening enthusiast.
Even catering for those foodies out there, Menai Bridge is home
to Sosban and The Old Butchers just named
Local Restaurant of the Year 2016 by The Good Food Guide - there's
no menu, just the best freshest local ingredients available on that
day - a completely unique dining experience.
Just like most places in North Wales the events calendar for the
town is always fairly busy. A definite date for your diary this
weekend is the Menai Seafood Festival on August 20th -
highly recommended!
So all in all with the chance to stroll the high street, walk
the coastline, enjoy the endless views, grab a bite to eat or get
the adrenaline going - Menai Bridge really can offer something for
all ages and can be enjoyed at everyone's own pace. It may be small
but Menai Bridge has a mighty personality - don't just take my word
for it, discover it for yourself!