
Penrhos Coastal Park Holyhead
200 acres of woodland, coastal views, secret beaches, and wildlife, including red squirrels. A historical racecourse site.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best for wildlife

Penrhos Coastal Park Holyhead
Best Time
Best for wildlife

Highlights
Must-see attractions
200 acres of woodland, coastal views, secret beaches, and wildlife, including red squirrels. A historical racecourse site.
"A lovely park for a day out with coastal walks, forest trails, and a chance to see red squirrels!"

🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
This park is a dream for dog walkers! Plenty of space and bins available.
🐿️ Red Squirrel Alert!
Keep your eyes peeled for red squirrels; they're a protected species here!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Woodland Trails
Wander through serene forests, discovering hidden paths and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

Coastal Views
Experience breathtaking vistas of the Irish Sea and watch ferries navigate Holyhead harbour.

Secret Beaches
Discover secluded pebble beaches perfect for a peaceful stroll or a moment of quiet reflection.

Red Squirrel Spotting
If you're lucky, catch a glimpse of the park's protected and charming red squirrel population.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors
Wildlife Wonders
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
This park is a dream for dog walkers! Plenty of space and bins available.
🐿️ Red Squirrel Alert!
Keep your eyes peeled for red squirrels; they're a protected species here!
🚗 Ample Parking
Generous parking available, making access easy for a day out.
🚶♀️ Varied Trails
Explore woodland paths, coastal routes, and beach access. Wear comfy shoes!
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
This park is a dream for dog walkers! Plenty of space and bins available.
🐿️ Red Squirrel Alert!
Keep your eyes peeled for red squirrels; they're a protected species here!
🚗 Ample Parking
Generous parking available, making access easy for a day out.
🚶♀️ Varied Trails
Explore woodland paths, coastal routes, and beach access. Wear comfy shoes!
🚽 Convenient Toilets
Clean toilet facilities are located by the car park for your convenience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Penrhos Coastal Park for its natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and dog-friendly atmosphere. The free entry and ample parking are significant draws, making it an accessible and enjoyable destination for a day out. While some hope to see red squirrels, the woodland walks and coastal views are universally appreciated.
"Nice sized car park with direct access to the pebble beach. Sit & take in the coastal views or wander the woodland trails to more coastal areas & views across to Holyhead harbour, Stena & Irish ferries coming & going. Toilets on the car park. Great for dog walking, mini hikes with the kids or woodland wandering & coastal views."
Greg Manchester
"Lovely park for a day out. Costal walk, forest walk. There's even some red squirrels if you're lucky to see them"
Zoe E
"This park is so beautiful along the coast! I enjoyed how peaceful it was and walking along the well maintained paths. Unfortunately I didn't see any of the red squirrels that reside in the park but really enjoyed walking through the forests. There are clean toilets available by the car park."
Shelley Slade
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Penrhos Coastal Park is located just outside Holyhead. Driving is the most convenient way, with ample parking available on-site. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus routes is advisable if you're not driving.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the park, which is a great starting point for your explorations.
While cycling might be possible on some wider paths, the park is primarily designed for walking. Stick to designated trails to respect the environment and wildlife.
Some of the main paths are well-maintained, but the varied terrain, including woodland and coastal areas, may present challenges for wheelchairs. It's best to check specific path conditions if accessibility is a concern.
Holyhead town centre and its ferry port are the closest major transport hubs. From there, you would likely need a taxi or local bus service to reach the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Penrhos Coastal Park generally offers free entry and parking, making it an accessible destination for everyone.
The park is typically open year-round during daylight hours, allowing for flexible visiting times.
No, tickets are not required as entry is free. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
While official guided tours might not be regularly scheduled, local wildlife enthusiasts or groups may occasionally organize events. It's worth checking local Anglesey tourism websites for any upcoming activities.
The park is open in most weather conditions, but coastal paths can become slippery. Woodland trails offer some shelter. Always check the weather forecast before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a variety of trails, including well-maintained woodland paths, scenic coastal walks, and access to pebble beaches.
The park is known for its protected red squirrels, as well as various bird species like woodpeckers, waterfowl, and wading birds.
Yes, clean toilet facilities are conveniently located by the main car park.
Yes, the park offers gentle woodland walks and open spaces that are great for kids. The beach access can also be fun, though supervision is advised.
Interestingly, parts of the park were once used as a private horse racing course, and you can still find remnants of viewing platforms and betting towers.
📸 📸 Photography
The coastal viewpoints offer stunning seascapes, especially with ferries in the background. The woodland trails provide opportunities for nature photography, and the beaches are beautiful at different tides.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour can be particularly magical.
Yes, with patience and a good zoom lens, you can capture images of the red squirrels and various bird species. Remember to maintain a respectful distance.
The views across Beddmanarch Bay and towards Holyhead harbour, with its busy ferry traffic, are iconic. Look for any remaining structures from its past as a racecourse.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and general shots. A telephoto lens is useful for wildlife, and a wide-angle lens can capture expansive coastal views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With free parking and entry, it's an economical choice for a family day out. The convenience of toilets near the car park is also a major plus for families. While spotting red squirrels might be a challenge, the excitement of looking for them adds an extra layer of fun for children.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers & Hikers
The park's diverse landscapes mean you can tailor your walk to your preference, whether it's a deep dive into the forest or a bracing walk along the shoreline. The historical remnants of the racecourse also add an interesting element for those who appreciate a bit of local history.
🐶 Dog Owners
The availability of dog waste bins throughout the park makes it easy to be a responsible owner. Many visitors rave about how much their dogs enjoyed the park, highlighting it as a must-visit for those travelling with their pets.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Diverse Landscapes
The park's 200 acres also encompass areas that were once a private horse racing course. While the races are long gone, you can still find remnants like viewing platforms and betting towers, adding a unique historical layer to your visit. This blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue makes Penrhos a fascinating place to explore.
Whether you're looking for a peaceful woodland escape or dramatic coastal vistas, Penrhos Coastal Park delivers. The coastal views are particularly striking, offering panoramic sights of the Irish Sea and the bustling activity of ferries coming and going from Holyhead harbour.
Spotting the Elusive Red Squirrel
To increase your chances, move quietly through the woodland areas and keep an eye on the trees. Look for movement in the branches or listen for the rustling of leaves. Remember that these are wild animals, so it's crucial to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing them. Feeding the squirrels is also discouraged as it can harm their health and natural behaviours.
Many visitors report enjoying the thrill of spotting these native squirrels, even if it requires a bit of searching. The presence of red squirrels highlights the park's importance as a wildlife conservation area and adds a special element to the overall experience.
A Haven for Dog Walkers
From the soft woodland floor to the open coastal paths and pebble beaches, there are diverse environments for dogs to enjoy. The sea air and the opportunity to explore new scents will undoubtedly keep them happy and engaged. Many visitors specifically mention how much their dogs loved their time at Penrhos, making it a highly recommended spot for those travelling with pets.
It's always a good idea to keep your dog under control, especially near wildlife or other visitors, to ensure everyone has a pleasant experience. The park's natural beauty combined with its dog-friendly atmosphere makes it a top choice for a day out with your furry friend.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit