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Admiralty Arch, Holyhead facts for kids

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For the arch in London, see Admiralty Arch.
Admirality arch Holyhead
Admiralty Arch in Holyhead, 2006

The Admiralty Arch in Holyhead, Anglesey, is a famous stone archway. It was built in 1824. This special arch marks the end of a very important road. This road was designed by a famous engineer named Thomas Telford. The arch also celebrates a visit from King George IV of the United Kingdom.

Discovering Holyhead's Admiralty Arch

Why Was This Arch Built?

The Admiralty Arch was designed by Thomas Harrison. Its main goal was to remember King George IV's visit. The King came to Holyhead in August 1821. He arrived on his royal yacht, the Royal George.

He stayed overnight at Plas Newydd. The next day, he planned to leave. But bad weather delayed his trip. So, he switched to a steam packet boat called Lightning. This boat took him to Howth in Ireland. This was part of his important state visit to Ireland. People were very happy about the change to the faster boat.

How Was the Arch Made?

Local people helped pay for the arch. It took two years to build. The stone for the arch came from Red Wharf Bay. This bay is on the eastern side of Anglesey. Because of its history, the arch is also called the George IV Arch. Sometimes, it's called the Triumphal Arch.

Where Can You See It Today?

The Admiralty Arch is a Grade II* listed building. This means it's a very important historical structure. It is located inside the Port of Holyhead. It stands on Ynys Halen.

You cannot go right up to the arch for safety reasons. In 2017, there were talks about moving it. This would make it easier for people to see. For now, the best place to view it is from St Cybi's Churchyard.

Other Nearby Landmarks

Beyond the arch, at the end of the Admiralty Pier, is another important building. This is the Holyhead Mail Pier Lighthouse. It was finished in 1821. John Rennie designed it. It was part of big improvements to Holyhead Harbour.

  • The landing of his Majesty, George the Fourth, at Holyhead, August 7th 1821

    King George IV arriving at Holyhead, 7 August 1821

  • William John Huggins (1781-1845) - George IV On Board the 'Lightning', the First Post Office Steam Packet to Dublin, 12 August 1821 - BHC0619 - Royal Museums Greenwich

    King George IV on board the 'Lightning' on his way to Dublin, 12 August 1821

  • A plan of a triumphal memorial intended to be erected by subscription on the pier at Holyhead - in honour of the visit of His Majesty George IV, to the principality of Wales on the 7th. of August 1821, by Thomas Harrison Esq. Architect

    A plan showing the triumphal arch, pier, and lighthouse

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