Bardsey Island, Wales: Britain’s least-populated island

Simon Heptinstall

Travel writer

11th Jul 2025

Tucked off the coast of North Wales, Bardsey Island - known as Ynys Enlli in Welsh - is a remote and mystical destination steeped in history and natural beauty.

Also known as the 'Island of 20,000 Saints', this tiny outcrop in the Irish Sea has drawn people for centuries.

With no cars, limited electricity, and an abundance of wildlife, Bardsey offers a rare getaway.

Whether you are a fan of nature, history lover, or simply in search of solitude, travelling to Bardsey is a journey back in time to one of Wales’s most enchanting hidden treasures.

Read our UK road trips guide to learn more.

Why go there?

If you really want to get away from it all in the UK, you have to jump ship to one of Britain’s small island outposts. From Bryher in the Scillies to Fair Isle in the Shetlands, there are scores of wonderfully quiet offshore retreats. But not many offer such primitive isolation as Bardsey, the sacred Welsh ‘Island of the Bards’.

What to do

Guests have a unique chance to explore this historic mile-wide traffic-free island, including its one steep hill, unusual square lighthouse, ruined monastery and internationally renowned wildlife. Spot seals, dolphins and porpoises, and thousands of rare birds.

Where to stay and eat

The Bardsey Trust rents out nine basic houses None of them have electricity or bathrooms – although they do have lighting, fridge freezers and outside toilets. Cold running water comes from wells or a mountain spring. The four island inhabitants can sell you home-grown vegetables, a fresh lobster or free-range eggs; other than that you have to bring your own food.

How to get there

Park at a remote farm, then carry your gear down a long, steep trail to the sea at Porth Meudwy. A small open boat takes 20 minutes to cross to Bardsey and the Trust advises you wear waterproof clothing. Treacherous waters make timetables unpredictable. And it’s not unknown for rough weather to leave visitors stranded on the island until it clears!

How to get there from Cardiff

Here is the route you'll need to take to get to Bardsey Island from the Welsh capital:

From Porth Meudwy in Pwllheli, you'll need to catch a ferry. It takes around 30 minutes and leaves several times a day. Have fun on your Welsh adventure!

Are you experiencing a fault, warning, or mechanical problem on your road trip? Find a local mechanic with the RAC.