About the reserve

Situated on the wild north coast of Anglesey, with its unique, elliptical shingle ridge, Cemlyn is an incredible site to visit. The ridge, known as Esgair Cemlyn, is an important habitat for specialist plant species such as sea kale, sea campion and yellow horned-poppy. Beyond the ridge, the shallow lagoon is an interesting habitat for aquatic species such as the rare spiralled tassleweed; whilst surrounding areas of gorse and grassland provide habitat for a wide range of butterflies and birds. Year round, waders and wildfowl can be seen around the lagoon at the adjacent shorelines. The site is best visited from May through to July when the islands within the lagoon host the nesting colonies of Sandwich, common and Arctic terns. It is the only nesting colony of Sandwich terns in Wales and a true wildlife spectacle – not to be missed!

Did you know?
The wildlife at Cemlyn, and the birds in particular, have been monitored by wardens every summer since 1981, providing a fascinating look into our changing coasts.

Directions
Cemlyn is on the north coast of Anglesey, to the west of Wylfa Nuclear Power Station. Turn off the A5025 at Tregele. To reach the ‘beach’ (east) car park, follow the road taking a sharp Right at the first fork. To reach the ‘Bryn Aber’ car park (west and closest to the warden’s viewpoint – SH 329 935), continue Left, taking the option to the Right at each subsequent fork.