Gaerwen

A railway junction marks the very heart of this unassuming Anglesey town, where two lines split toward Bangor and Holyhead. Gaerwen doesn't shout about itself - it's the sort of place that gets on with life while tourists rush past to the coast.

The town sits perfectly positioned for exploring the island's treasures. Mon Golf Complex offers a decent round with proper Welsh hospitality, while The Dingle Nature Reserve provides lovely woodland walks just minutes from the centre. Art lovers shouldn't miss Oriel Môn, showcasing contemporary Welsh work alongside rotating exhibitions.

What makes Gaerwen special is its authentic character. This isn't a place dressed up for visitors - it's a working town where locals still pop into Llyfrgell Llangefni for their weekly library visit and families use Plas Arthur swimming pool year-round. The surrounding countryside rolls away in gentle hills, with RSPB Cors Ddyga offering excellent birdwatching for those who know where to look.

Getting here couldn't be easier - direct trains from Chester or connections via Bangor. The A5 runs right past if you're driving, making it a cracking base for day trips across Anglesey.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense. You're close enough to nip into town for supplies at the local shops, yet far enough out to enjoy proper countryside peace. From here, Beaumaris is twenty minutes by car, the Menai Strait bridges are even closer, and you can reach Anglesey's spectacular coastline in half an hour. It's the ideal spot for families wanting to explore the island without the premium prices of the coastal resorts.