St Maelrhys Church, Porth Ysgo, near Aberdaron LL53 8AN.
A small medieval pilgrim church a short way off the coastal path. Unique for its clear East window which affords a view of the hillside leading up to Rhiw. Many people write in the visitor book about the peace they find in this sacred space. Llofft RS Thomas is a small room up a short flight of stairs, where you can sit and read the works of RS Thomas, former poet and priest of this parish. Listen to recordings of him reading his poetry, look at family photographs, and even make yourself a cup of tea or coffee. There are even second hand books for sale! The view from the window of the Llofft even gives you a glimpse of the sacred island of Bardsey.

St Hywyn's Church
Known as the 'Cathedral of Llyn', St Hywyn's Church stands almost on the beach at Aberdaron. It has a long association with Bardsey as the last stopping point before crossing to the island.
Built on the site of an ancient oratory. In 1841 the church was abandoned and a new building was erected high above the village. Although the old church was still used as a school, established in 1835, the building as a whole was in a pitiful state. The restoration of St Hywyn’s began and continued over a number of years. By 1868 a new roof was in place and the windows repaired. During this restoration the remains of a number of features were recorded, including a stone bench, a screen and stalls. The oldest surviving parts are Norman. There are two naves, the larger south nave being the more recent one. The new churchyard wall was built in 1997 to curtail erosion from the sea.

Pilgrims have come to Aberdaron since mediaeval times, on their way to Bardsey. St Hywyn became Abbot on Bardsey and there are strong links between Bardsey and Aberdaron.

More information:

• St Hywyn's Church Website

• Timeline of events involving St Hywyn's and Bardsey (.pdf)

• Re –Opening of the Old Temple, July 10th 1906

Plas yn Rhiw

Delightful manor house with ornamental garden and wonderful views. The house was rescued from neglect and lovingly restored by the three Keating sisters, who bought it in 1938. The views from the grounds and gardens across Cardigan Bay are among the most spectacular in Britain.
For more information please visit the NT website.

Porth y Swnt

This unique interpretation centre in the heart of Aberdaron uses poetry and art installations to showcase the special qualities which make the Llŷn peninsula so unique in terms of history, culture and environment.

Inspired by the pilgrims who have travelled to Aberdaron and Bardsey Island for hundreds of years Porth y Swnt takes you on your own special journey. Journey up from ‘the Deep’ which is dark and atmospheric, through man’s interaction with the land in ‘the Way’, to ‘the Light’ and its centrepiece- the decommissioned optic from Bardsey Island lighthouse. Along the way you can read the words of local poets, watch film and light projections, hear haunting sounds and see historic photos of the area.

Open all year round, come in and explore, learn, reflect and enjoy the natural environment, and get ideas for activities, walks, attractions and things to do on the peninsula.

http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/porth-y-swnt/

Bardsey Island

The Llŷn Peninsula bears two ancient pilgrim paths to Ynys Enlli - Bardsey Island. Aberdaron is the last place of rest and refreshment before the final journey across to the island through the treacherous waters of Bardsey Sound - Swnt Enlli. In medieval times, three pilgrimages to Enlli were of equivalent benefit to the soul as one to Rome. Boat trips to Bardsey can be booked through the Bardsey Island Trust or directly through Bardsey Boat Trips or Enlli Charter. Accommodation is available to rent on the island through the Bardsey Island Trust.

Pilgrimages along the Northern Route from St Winefride's Well, Holywell to Bardsey are organised through the North Wales Pilgrim's Way - a distance of 150 miles .