Porth Swtan

Settlement in Anglesey

Wales

Porth Swtan

Porth Swtan, also known as Church Bay, is a picturesque coastal village located on the western coast of the Isle of Anglesey in Wales. It is situated approximately 12 miles west of Holyhead, the largest town on the island. The village derives its name from the small church, St. Rhwydrys, which stands on the cliffs overlooking the bay.

Porth Swtan is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and unspoiled surroundings. The bay itself boasts a sandy beach, ideal for families and sunbathers, and offers breathtaking views of the Irish Sea. The area is also popular among water sports enthusiasts, with opportunities for surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

The village is home to a small community, and its charm lies in its tranquility and simplicity. There are a handful of cottages, a few bed and breakfast establishments, and a couple of cafes and restaurants serving delicious local cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the coastal path, taking in the fresh sea air and observing the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area.

Porth Swtan is surrounded by lush green fields and rolling hills, making it an ideal base for exploring the beautiful countryside of Anglesey. Just a short drive away, visitors can discover ancient archaeological sites, such as the Neolithic burial chamber at Barclodiad y Gawres, or visit nearby attractions like the South Stack Lighthouse and RSPB Reserve.

In summary, Porth Swtan is a charming coastal village that offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Anglesey. With its stunning beach, picturesque surroundings, and proximity to other attractions, this hidden gem on the Welsh coast is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape.

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Porth Swtan Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 53.370185/-4.5517939 or Grid Reference SH3088. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Rockfall at Porth Swtan

A considerable chunk of the cliff at the back of Porth Swtan (Church Bay) beach has collapsed.

Mike Parker

Wavecrest CafÃ©, Porth Swtan

Closed now for the season.

Mike Parker

Church Bay near Rhydwyn, Anglesey

Colin Park

The sands of Church Bay / Porth Swtan, Anglesey

Porth Swtan or Church Bay is a gem of a sandy cove with a large-ish expanse of flat firm sand at low tide.

Jeremy Bolwell

Campsite above Church Bay / Porth Swtan

Porth Swtan gets its name from the thatched whitewashed building seen here adjacent to this campsite, a rare survivor and the last thatched building on Anglesey, called Swtan. The campsite is ideally located next to coastal paths and a short walk from the sandy bay.

Jeremy Bolwell

Barbed wire fence beside the coastal path

The coastal path here borders fields adjacent to the Swtan, the last surviving thatched dwelling on Anglesey, a tyddyn or smallholding lived in until the 1960's, when its old roof beams collapsed and since when it has been restored as a museum.

Jeremy Bolwell

Ruined windmill inland of the coastal path

The tower of this old windmill stands out inland of the path.

Jeremy Bolwell

The last thatched cottage on Anglesey at Porth Swtan

This building now serves as a folk museum, recreating the tyddyn or smallholding plot held by a family here before its dereliction in the 1960's.

Jeremy Bolwell

The frontage of Swtan thatched tyddyn at Church Bay

The main building is whitewashed and restored along with this outbuilding and the vegetable garden.

Jeremy Bolwell

Recreated vegetable garden at Swtan

This thatched cottage and its immediate plot recreates life for the past residents, with a sheltered plot here for basic staple foods such as spuds, beans and other veg. It is maintained by local Women's Institute volunteers I believe.

Jeremy Bolwell