Over the last summer, my family and I spent some more time on the Isle of Anglesey in North Wales. Previously, we had visited the ancient burial chamber of Bryn Celli Ddu, which we all felt was an amazing, magical place. And so this year, we were keen to visit some more prehistoric sites on our travels around the island.

Staying as usual in Rhosneigr, our first destination was almost just around the corner, and easy to find. Heading out of Llanfaelog, taking a left turn and travelling along a small lane, Ty Newydd burial chamber was clearly sign posted and no problem to park close by. Hopping over a stone wall, the monument was visible immediately.

Ty Newydd stands in the corner of a field and though brick supports help to hold it up, the site is still impressive. It dates to the Neolithic age and was a communal place to bury the dead. With the capstone lying across the supports, Ty Newydd resembles a mini Stonehenge, and still awe inspiring.

Our first site was very straight forward to discover, encouraged by this and the wonder of standing close to something so unfathomably old, were decided to look for more.

Trefignath tomb was not as simple to locate, but it was definitely worth the effort. We headed up towards Trearddur Bay, and after a few wrong turns, found ourselves near a truck park. We knew the location was nearby, but coudn’t see any signage. With double yellows lining the road, parking was restricted. Pulling into a small turning space, we scouted about and – noticing a similar stone wall to Ty Newydd, could just see the top of the monument.

This site is actually three burial chambers constructed in close proximity throughout different periods of the Neolithic age. Although some of the construction has collapsed, the three chambers are still clearly identifiable and create quite a stirring experience. As per Bryn Celli Ddu, there’s obviously still some relevance here, with flowers and other items left on the site.

Our explorations came to an end eventually, it was time for the intrepid Jones archaeologists to retire. Both sites we had discovered were inspiring to visit, brilliantly magical places that were shrouded in mystery and history alike. There are plenty more ancient monuments to visit in the area, we’ll save those fpor another time.

Find out more about Ty Newydd and Trefignath sites.