Five things that make a trip to Holywell well worth it

Often, living on Anglesey, I can forget how lucky I am to have so much beauty around me.

So, I thought I would start this feature to help both myself and you - our readers - to really appreciate the fantastic landmarks, venues and beauty spots we have dotted all around us.

To kick off the new series, I took a trip to the Holywell area this week to find five things that standout the most there.

The National Catholic Shrine of St Winefride

The chapel where St Winefride's Well lies in Holywell. (Image: Newsquest)

Let's start off with the most obvious of reasons why most visitors are attracted to Holywell.

The holy well at St Winefride’s has been a place of pilgrimage since at least 1115. It is said to spring from the spot where 7th-century Welsh abbot St Beuno brought his niece Winefride back to life.

The chapel itself dates from the late 15th century and is a breath-taking feature that will make you grind to a halt as you drive through the area.

Standing there and seeing both the well and the chapel itself in all their glory, I felt like I was, all of a sudden, being taken on a trip back in time. It's a far cry away from the hustle and bustle of the modern world around us otherwise and offers a moment of peace to reflect on the area's incredible history.

The Duke of Lancaster

The Duke of Lancaster ship. (Image: Newsquest)

Perhaps a slightly lesser-known gem that's hidden away in the Holywell area.

Located at Mostyn, the former cruise ship and car ferry, known as the Duke of Lancaster, was home to a leisure and retail complex but has been closed to the public since the mid 1980's.

The site has been popular with urban explorers and the 'canvas' for some creative graffiti over the years, dividing opinion on whether it's a landmark or eyesore.

But, taking a trip there this was, it felt quite surreal seeing it in person - again it's a trip down memory lane and unusual thing to find anywhere. There is a beach also located next door to the ship, providing a great spot to walk along.

There have been rumours and plans about the future of the boat over the decades, including a 'zombie' experience, but so far nothing has materialised, prompting frustration among members of the community.

Holywell Pet Cemetery

The Holywell Pet Cemetery. (Image: Newsquest)

Now, bear with me on this one, as I know it sounds a bit morbid at first.

But, in fact, the Pet Cemetery, located just past Holywell at Brynford, is a stunning and tranquil place to take a walk.

Dotted around the wonderful tearooms at the venue, which itself is dog-friendly, are the graves of more than 500 animals.

A grave to a beloved dog at Holywell Pet Cemetery. (Image: Newsquest)

Beautiful plaques, headstones and even statues are placed all around the cemetery as a constant reminder that pets really are part of the family.

This was the first time I had visited the cemetery, despite having run stories on them in the past, and I have to say it was a poignant experience.

Greenfield Valley Heritage Park

Greenfield Valley is another spot with so much history behind it. (Image: Newsquest)

If you are a big fan of a great walk then this is the ideal spot for you.

The park provides and opportunity to explore 70 acres of woodland and discover 2000 years of fascinating history.

It is packed full of lakes, streams, ancient monuments, and historic factories, as well as a giant adventure playground for children to enjoy.

It was literally just me in there on the day I visited, so you couldn't find a more quiet and secluded place to enjoy a walk.

Tower Gardens

Entrance into Tower Gardens in Holywell. (Image: Newsquest)

No trip to any town is complete without browsing what the High Street has to offer.

And Holywell is quite unique in that respect due to the Tower Gardens area - step through the eye-catching canopy and you will find a range of business to either side of you.

Among the independent businesses currently on offer there are the likes of Danny's Butchers, Tower Crafts, Coco Sweets and Chocolate and so much more offering some fantastic home-made goods and services.

When I visited, there were also market stalls on offer, further enhancing the shopping experience to any visitor.

Of course, there are many other spots to also enjoy while visiting Holywell including;

• Holywell Golf Club
• Groes Onnen Windmill
• Greenfield Dock
• Pantasaph and its Franciscan community
• Coed Y Garreg Watchtower

Where is your go to place to visit in the Holywell area? Let us know in the comments.