Llanbadrig Church

Not far from Cemaes Bay, on the northern coast of Anglesey lies the church of Llanbadrig. So, just another Anglesey church then? Not really, because the man who built the original church here 1500 years ago is one of the most famous people who have ever lived. In America, millions of people celebrate every year because of him. Countries have Bank Holidays because of him. Much beer is drunk because of him; some of it even dyed a different colour! Know who he was yet? Lets throw in a red herring. He wasn't Irish!
You thought you knew but now you're not sure? Understandable, because not many people know that St. Patrick, for all people associate him with Ireland, was Welsh. He was charged with taking Christianity to Ireland (getting rid of all the snakes wasn't actually part of his day job!) and made many trips between Ireland and Wales. On one of these trips he was shipwrecked of the coast of Anglesey when his ship hit Ynys Badrig, now called Middle Mouse. Swimming ashore, he lived for a time in a small cave where there was a spring to give him water. Thanking God for saving his life he vowed to build a church, which he did on the top of the cliffs. The church is still there, although it is obviously much changed. Somewhere in the foundations, however, lie parts of the original church. Once inside, you are struck by the colour scheme, which is unusual to say the least. It is more akin to a mosque than a Christian church. This dates to when Lord Stanley of Alderley, who became a Moslem, paid for restoration work to be carried out. Sadly, a few years ago, vandals set fire to the church and it was badly damaged, the effect being that it is only now open at certain times. Well worth a visit though, and if you go through the little churchyard and over the style you are on the coastal path, which affords some spectacular views over Cemaes Bay to your left and Hell's Mouth to your right. Look straight down and you might see the odd grey seal or harbour porpoise!

To visit Llanbadrig Church take the A5025 from Menai Bridge, passing Pentraeth, Benllech, Amlwch and Bull Bay. Just before reaching Cemaes Bay take the right turn towards the Gadlys Hotel and follow the signs for the 5th century church. There is a car park on the left opposite the church itself.