Saint Tudwal's Islands facts for kids
The Saint Tudwal's Islands (in Welsh: Ynysoedd Tudwal) are a group of small islands. They are located off the coast of North Wales, south of a town called Abersoch. These islands are at the western end of Tremadog Bay. In the early 1800s, people sometimes called them the Studwells.
There are two main islands in this group. They are called Saint Tudwal's Island West and Saint Tudwal's Island East. There are also some rocks nearby called Carreg y Trai. The islands are famous for their population of seals. Saint Tudwal's Island West has a lighthouse. Saint Tudwal's Island East has the old remains of a priory. The western island is taller, reaching about 44 meters (144 feet) high.
Saint Tudwal's Island East: A Peaceful Place
Saint Tudwal's Island East (in Welsh: Ynys Tudwal Fach) is shaped a bit like a kidney. It is covered in grass. The island is about 500 meters (550 yards) long and 200 meters (220 yards) wide. A famous author named Carla Lane owned this island until she passed away in 2016.
The highest point on this island is about 38 meters (125 feet) above the sea level. It is located just over 1 kilometer (0.62 miles) from the Llŷn Peninsula. The closest village to the island is Machroes. Small boats often sail from the nearby town of Abersoch. They take visitors to see the amazing wildlife around the islands.
History of Saint Tudwal's Island East
People believe that Saint Tudwal, a very old saint, lived as a hermit on this island. This is probably how the island got its name. You can still find the remains of an old priory on the eastern side of the island. This priory was mentioned in old tax records from the year 1291.
Saint Tudwal's Island West: A Home and a Lighthouse
Saint Tudwal's Island West is known for its lighthouse. This island was bought by the famous adventurer Bear Grylls. He turned it into a holiday home for his family.
