Perched on dramatic cliffs, this Anglesey RSPB reserve is home to Ellin’s Tower, South Stack lighthouse and is a haven for wildlife.
Gusting unimpeded across the Irish Sea, the wind makes its presence felt at this clifftop RSPB reserve – but that makes it a perfect choice for blowing away the cobwebs.
Where are South Stack Cliffs?
Located on the northwest coast of Anglesey, an island off the north coast of Wales, it’s situated near Holyhead.
When to visit South Stack Cliffs
Stride across maritime heathland to reach the RSPB’s glass-fronted café, but – for now – resist the temptation to enter. Instead make for a crenellated white building, a 19th-century summerhouse called Ellin’s Tower.
This lofty vantage point grants intimate views of nesting seabirds in spring and summer. Thousands of auks, from guillemots form orderly rows on the precipitous rockface, complemented by hundreds of razorbills and several puffins.
Offshore, Manx shearwaters flicker black and white, passing the day at sea before returning after nightfall.
Meanwhile, summer also sees South Stack’s heathland at its prettiest, clad in purple and pink. Here, spot silver studded blue butterflies, common lizards and thrift clearwing, a day-flying, wasp-mimicking moth.
If you can’t visit in summer, fret not. With its wave lashed cliffs, network of trails and snow-white lighthouse facing off the sea, South Stack excels for wild walks at any season.
Autumn is best for watching harbour porpoises rotate through the metallic swell. Peering downwards into sheltered coves, you may chance upon a grey seal pup. Ravens and peregrines boss the skies year-round, as do choughs: few crows are as fun to watch as these red-billed ragamuffins as they hang in the wind, then plummet on crumpled wings before twisting upwards with a loud, echoing call.
Visitor information for South Stack Cliffs
Don’t forget to wear sturdy shoes to enjoy the stunning coastal cliff path and climb the 400 steps to the top of the lighthouse.
Find out more
Check out our guides to the circular walk around South Stack, the lighthouse on Llanddwyn Island and the National Trust’s Bodnant Gardens.