Skinner's Monument
An obelisk commemorating Captain John Macgregor Skinner, offering stunning views of Holyhead harbour and its maritime history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best views and easier navigation
Skinner's Monument
Best Time
Best views and easier navigation
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An obelisk commemorating Captain John Macgregor Skinner, offering stunning views of Holyhead harbour and its maritime history.
"The view from the top is amazingly beautiful, worth the effort to find."
🎯 Use Turkey Shore Road
Find the overgrown gate on Turkey Shore Road for the easiest access. Avoid relying solely on GPS! :evergreen_tree:
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
The path can be overgrown and a bit spiky. Comfortable footwear is a must for the short hike. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Holyhead Views
Summit of the monument hill
Enjoy breathtaking views of Holyhead harbour, the ferry terminal, and the surrounding coastline. A perfect spot for photos!
The Skinner Monument Obelisk
Top of the hill
An imposing obelisk commemorating Captain John Macgregor Skinner, a significant figure in Holyhead's maritime heritage.
Maritime History Connection
Base of the monument
Reflect on the town's seafaring past and the life of Captain Skinner, a veteran and beloved packet ship captain.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating to Skinner's Monument
A Glimpse of Holyhead's Past
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Use Turkey Shore Road
Find the overgrown gate on Turkey Shore Road for the easiest access. Avoid relying solely on GPS! :evergreen_tree:
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
The path can be overgrown and a bit spiky. Comfortable footwear is a must for the short hike. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the vista
The views from the top are stunning, especially of the ferry terminal and harbour. :camerawithflash:
🧐 Look for graffiti
Be aware that the monument has some graffiti, which some visitors note. :seenoevil:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Use Turkey Shore Road
Find the overgrown gate on Turkey Shore Road for the easiest access. Avoid relying solely on GPS! :evergreen_tree:
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
The path can be overgrown and a bit spiky. Comfortable footwear is a must for the short hike. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the vista
The views from the top are stunning, especially of the ferry terminal and harbour. :camerawithflash:
🧐 Look for graffiti
Be aware that the monument has some graffiti, which some visitors note. :seenoevil:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Skinner's Monument offers beautiful panoramic views of Holyhead harbour and the ferry terminal, making the somewhat challenging journey worthwhile. While the monument itself is a historical point of interest, the navigation can be tricky with limited signage and overgrown paths. Some also note the presence of graffiti on the monument.
"We had a long wait for our ferry back to Dublin so we decided to take a walk up to Skinners monument. Google maps brought us the wrong direction and we ended up looking at the monument through someone’s garden. We walked all the way around to the bottom of the hill on Turkey Shore Road and found an overgrown gate and pathway to the monument.
It literally only took a few minutes to follow the path to the top and from there we enjoyed a great view of Holyhead and the ferry terminal below. We worth a look."
Justin
"Overlooking Holyhead harbour stands Skinner's Monument, an obelisk commemorating Captain John Macgregor Skinner.
After some research found that he was a veteran of the American War of Independence, Skinner later captained packet ships between Holyhead and Dublin. Known for his kindness, he was beloved in Holyhead. Tragically, he died in a storm in 1832. The monument, featuring maritime details, was erected by the people of Holyhead in his memory, symbolizing the town's maritime history."
Zack Eckley
"Not sure what to say other than it's very straight...
Looks iver the ferries entrance."
Marcus Ho
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Finding Skinner's Monument can be challenging. While some online maps may lead you astray, the most reliable access point is an overgrown gate and pathway found on Turkey Shore Road. Be prepared for a short, potentially rugged hike to reach the monument at the top of the hill.
Specific parking details are scarce, but visitors have noted difficulty with navigation. It's advisable to research local parking options in Holyhead before heading towards Turkey Shore Road.
Many visitors recommend looking for the overgrown gate on Turkey Shore Road. Relying solely on GPS can lead to incorrect directions, so keep an eye out for this landmark.
Information on direct public transport to the monument's immediate vicinity is limited. It's best to check local bus routes in Holyhead that might get you close to the Turkey Shore Road area.
The path is described as overgrown with spiky bushes by some visitors. Wearing sturdy footwear is highly recommended for a more comfortable ascent.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Skinner's Monument is an outdoor landmark and does not require a ticket for entry. Access is generally free for visitors.
As an outdoor monument, Skinner's Monument is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and to enjoy the views.
No, there is no admission fee to visit Skinner's Monument. It's a public landmark for all to enjoy.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to potential navigation difficulties and lack of lighting on the path.
There are no specific official restrictions, but visitors should be mindful of the natural environment and any private property nearby.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views of Holyhead harbour and the ferry terminal from the top of the hill are the prime photo opportunities. The monument itself also makes for a striking subject.
Visiting in the late afternoon can offer beautiful golden hour light, making it a good time for photography.
Yes, you can photograph the graffiti, though some visitors note its presence as a downside.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive views.
Photos capturing the monument with the harbour and ferries in the background are popular.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be sure to wear appropriate footwear as the path can be uneven and overgrown. While the monument itself is a historical point, the real draw for kids might be the expansive views and the adventure of finding the hidden path. Keep an eye on little ones, especially near the edges at the top.
🚶 Solo Explorers & Hikers
It's advisable to inform someone of your plans and be aware of the potentially overgrown path. The monument itself is a point of interest, but the real draw is the uninterrupted vista over Holyhead, perfect for contemplation or photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Skinner's Monument
Tragically, Captain Skinner lost his life in a fierce storm in 1832. In his memory, the people of Holyhead erected this monument, an obelisk adorned with maritime details. It serves as a poignant symbol of the town's rich seafaring history and the enduring respect held for its captain.
While the monument itself is a historical marker, its location offers stunning vistas that connect the past with the present. The views over Holyhead harbour and the bustling ferry terminal provide a dynamic backdrop to this historical tribute.
Navigating the Ascent
Once you find the entrance, prepare for a short but potentially rugged hike. The path is described as overgrown with spiky bushes, making sturdy, closed-toe footwear essential. Despite the minor challenges of the ascent, the effort is rewarded with a rewarding experience at the summit.
The journey to the monument is part of its charm, offering a sense of discovery. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most rewarding destinations require a little extra effort to find.
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