Ynys Cyngar: Historic Coastal Landmark near Porthmadog

Historic maritime landmark on the Glaslyn estuary, offering scenic coastal views and a glimpse into North Wales’ slate and shipping heritage.

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Ynys Cyngar

Ynys Cyngar is a historic coastal site located near Porthmadog in North Wales, once an island and later a key maritime and industrial point. Known for its early 19th-century public quay and its role in the slate and gunpowder industries, it offers scenic views across the Glaslyn estuary and holds significance in the development of the surrounding harbour and transport infrastructure.

A brief summary to Ynys Cyngar

WR4X+V4, Porthmadog, GB
Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

Visit at low tide to walk across the sands to Ynys Cyngar and explore the coastal environment up close.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching and to enjoy panoramic views of Snowdonia and Cardigan Bay.
Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Porthmadog harbour and the Ffestiniog Railway heritage sites.
Wear sturdy footwear for walking on sandy and rocky terrain along the coastal paths.

Getting There

Train

Take the train to Porthmadog station, located about 3 km from Ynys Cyngar. From there, a taxi or local bus can reach the site in 10-15 minutes. Train services run frequently from major Welsh cities, with fares typically between £10-£25 depending on origin.
Car

Driving from central Porthmadog, reach Ynys Cyngar in approximately 10 minutes via local roads. Parking is limited near the site, so plan to park in Porthmadog and walk or take a taxi. No parking fees apply at nearby public areas.
Bus

Local bus services connect Porthmadog with surrounding villages; disembark near the Glaslyn estuary and walk 20-30 minutes to Ynys Cyngar. Bus frequency varies, with fares around £2-£5. Check local timetables for seasonal schedules.

Ynys Cyngar location weather suitability

Any Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures
Rain / Wet Weather

Discover more about Ynys Cyngar

Origins and Maritime Significance

Ynys Cyngar, originally a small island or rocky outcrop in the Glaslyn estuary near Porthmadog, played a pivotal role in the early maritime history of the region. In the 1820s, a public quay was constructed here, transforming it into a busy harbour area that facilitated trade and shipping. This quay was integral before the establishment of the larger Porthmadog harbour, serving as a key unloading point for goods and materials including gunpowder, which was offloaded here to keep it away from the town center for safety reasons.

Industrial Connections and the Slate Trade

The site was closely linked to the booming slate industry of North Wales. Gunpowder unloaded at Ynys Cyngar was used in the slate quarries, and the harbour activities here supported the transport of slate and other goods. The arrival of the Ffestiniog Railway further enhanced the importance of the area, connecting the slate quarries at Blaenau Ffestiniog to the harbour facilities, facilitating export and economic growth. Ynys Cyngar thus contributed to the industrial development that shaped Porthmadog and its surroundings.

Geographical and Scenic Context

Situated on the estuary’s edge, Ynys Cyngar offers striking views across the Glaslyn estuary towards Snowdonia’s mountains and along the coast of Cardigan Bay. The landscape around it features sandy beaches, rocky headlands, and a tranquil coastal environment. At low tide, it is possible to walk across the sands to the site, enhancing its appeal as a scenic and peaceful spot for visitors appreciating natural beauty and coastal heritage.

Legacy of William Madocks and Regional Development

William Madocks, the visionary behind the region’s transformation, initially considered Ynys Cyngar as a potential harbour site before focusing on the development of Porthmadog harbour and the Cob embankment. His ambitious projects shaped the region’s infrastructure, including transport links and land reclamation. Ynys Cyngar remains a testament to this era of industrial and engineering innovation that helped establish North Wales as a significant maritime and slate-exporting region.

Present-Day Character and Visitor Experience

Today, Ynys Cyngar is a quiet historical landmark offering a glimpse into the past maritime and industrial activities of the area. Its isolated location and natural surroundings provide a tranquil setting for reflection and exploration. Visitors can enjoy coastal walks, observe the estuary’s wildlife, and appreciate the layered history visible in the landscape and remaining structures, such as the old quay and limekilns associated with construction efforts.

Preservation and Cultural Importance

While not a large or heavily developed site, Ynys Cyngar is recognized for its cultural and historical significance in the context of Porthmadog’s development. It is part of the broader narrative of North Wales’ industrial heritage and coastal evolution, preserved as a quiet reminder of the region’s maritime past and the industrial activities that once thrived here.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Ynys Cyngar

0.0 km

Historic maritime landmark on the Glaslyn estuary, offering scenic coastal views and a glimpse into North Wales’ slate and shipping heritage.

Aber-marchnad

5.3 km

Historic coastal market site at Criccieth, marked by resilience and scenic views beside the iconic castle ruins.

Snowdonia Adventure Activities

8.8 km

Discover outdoor adventure in Snowdonia with thrilling activities surrounded by stunning landscapes, perfect for all adventure enthusiasts.

Site of Plaid Cymru’s founding

18.0 km

Historic birthplace of Plaid Cymru, where Welsh nationalism took root in 1925 at Pwllheli’s Y Maes.

Gyrn Goch

18.2 km

A quiet coastal hamlet between Caernarfon Bay and the mountain Gyrn Goch, perfect for walkers and those seeking a peaceful Welsh retreat.

Gyrn Ddu

18.3 km

Discover Gyrn Ddu, a historical landmark in Caernarfon, where the enchanting Welsh landscape meets rich cultural heritage.

Gorsaf Copa'r Wyddfa Summit Station

18.6 km

The high-altitude terminus of the Snowdon Mountain Railway, offering panoramic views and access to the summit of Wales’ highest mountain.

Yr Wyddfa

18.6 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Yr Wyddfa, the highest peak in Wales, nestled in the stunning Snowdonia National Park.

Garnedd Ugain

19.4 km

Wales’ second-highest peak, part of the dramatic Snowdon Horseshoe, with sweeping views and rugged alpine terrain.

Coed y Brenin Forest Park

19.5 km

Experience breathtaking landscapes and thrilling adventures at Coed y Brenin Forest Park, a national treasure in North Wales.

Tre'r Ceiri Hillfort

19.7 km

Discover Tre'r Ceiri Hillfort, a stunning historical landmark in Caernarfon, where ancient history meets breathtaking Welsh landscapes.

Snowdon Massif

20.2 km

Explore Snowdon Massif, the highest peak in Wales, where breathtaking views and diverse trails await every adventurer seeking nature's wonders.

Yr Eifl

20.5 km

Explore Yr Eifl, a breathtaking mountain peak in North Wales, offering stunning views and an unforgettable hiking experience.

National Trust - South Snowdonia

21.2 km

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of South Snowdonia, a serene nature reserve perfect for hiking and relaxation.

Cae'r Gors

21.2 km

The childhood home of Kate Roberts, Wales' 'Queen of Literature', preserved as a window into quarrying-era hardship and literary genius.

Unmissable attractions to see

Black Rock Sands Beach

2.4 km

Expansive sandy beach in North Wales where you can drive onto the shore, enjoy water sports, and explore natural rock formations.

Siop Fawr Portmeirion

2.6 km

Discover North Wales’ oldest department store with unique homewares, Portmeirion pottery, and a charming café under a stunning stained glass dome.

Welsh Highland Heritage Railway

2.9 km

Step aboard a historic narrow-gauge steam train in Porthmadog and explore Wales’ rich railway heritage with hands-on museum experiences.

Porthmadog Eisteddfod Stone Circle

3.3 km

A striking stone circle at Porthmadog celebrating Welsh culture and the enduring spirit of the National Eisteddfod.

Amis Réunis

3.6 km

Discover the whimsical stone ship of Amis Réunis, a cultural icon in Portmeirion blending art, mystery, and the legacy of The Prisoner.

Portmeirion North Wales

3.6 km

A whimsical Italianate village on the Welsh coast blending Mediterranean charm, lush gardens, and iconic cultural history.

The Dome

3.7 km

Explore Portmeirion’s iconic Dome, a Grade II listed building showcasing unique historical artifacts, artistic treasures, and the village’s rich heritage.

The Village

3.8 km

Discover Portmeirion, a captivating Italianate village in North Wales where Mediterranean charm meets Welsh coastal beauty.

Traeth Glaslyn North Wales Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve

3.8 km

Experience the tidal rhythms and rich wildlife of North Wales’ dynamic salt marsh at Traeth Glaslyn Nature Reserve.

Traeth Glaslyn North Wales Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve

Castell Cricieth

5.5 km

Dramatic medieval castle perched on a coastal headland with stunning views over Cardigan Bay and rich Welsh history.

Criccieth

5.6 km

Discover Criccieth, the Pearl of Wales, where medieval castles meet sandy shores and scenic coastal charm enchants every visitor.

Harlech Castle

6.0 km

Explore Harlech Castle, a stunning 13th-century fortress with breathtaking views of Snowdonia and the Irish Sea, steeped in Welsh history and legend.

Gwaith Powdwr North Wales Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve

7.0 km

Explore the tranquil wildlife haven set on a historic explosives factory site with stunning estuary views and rare species in North Wales.

Gwaith Powdwr North Wales Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve

Llyn Tecwyn Isaf

7.6 km

A peaceful lake retreat near Talsarnau, perfect for gentle hikes, fishing, and soaking in the tranquil Welsh countryside.

Amgueddfa Lloyd George Museum

8.0 km

Explore the life and legacy of David Lloyd George at this intimate museum nestled in his childhood home on the Llŷn Peninsula.

Essential places to dine

Good Mood restaurant

2.3 km

A stylish Italian and burger restaurant offering harbour views and vibrant dining within Porthmadog’s historic Madoc Yacht Club.

Yr Hen Fecws Restaurant and B&B

2.4 km

A cosy bistro and charming B&B in Porthmadog offering fine seasonal dining and warm Welsh hospitality in the heart of Snowdonia.

Y Sgwâr

3.6 km

Experience warm hospitality and exquisite British-European cuisine in the heart of historic Tremadog at Y Sgwâr.

Castell Deudraeth Brasserie

4.0 km

Historic castle dining with contemporary Welsh cuisine and scenic mountain views in the heart of Portmeirion Village.

Dylan's Criccieth

5.0 km

Experience fresh Welsh seafood and stunning sea views in a charming Art Deco setting at Dylan's Criccieth on the North Wales coast.

Tir a Môr

5.5 km

Fresh seafood and warm Welsh hospitality combine at Tir a Môr, a cozy café and restaurant in scenic Criccieth.

Poachers Restaurant

5.5 km

Experience the heart of Welsh cuisine with fresh local flavors and warm hospitality at Poachers Restaurant in Criccieth.

Caffi Castell Harlech

6.1 km

A cozy café in Harlech’s Castle Square serving fresh Welsh produce daily amid historic charm.

The Plas Restaurant

6.1 km

Savor traditional Welsh flavors with stunning views of Harlech Castle at The Plas Restaurant on Harlech’s High Street.

The Goat Inn - Tafarn Yr Afr

10.1 km

A cosy gastropub in Garndolbenmaen serving hearty Welsh fare with warm hospitality and a welcoming atmosphere.

The Grapes Hotel, Bar & Restaurant

11.8 km

A welcoming traditional inn with hearty home-cooked meals and stunning Snowdonia views in the heart of Maentwrog.

Caffi Colwyn

12.1 km

Charming family-run café in Beddgelert with cosy interiors, a peaceful riverside tea garden, and a menu catering to all tastes including vegan and gluten-free options.

Y Madryn

12.1 km

A cozy village pub and restaurant in Chwilog offering hearty home-cooked meals and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Y Bistro yn yr Hebog

12.1 km

A cozy family-run bistro in Beddgelert offering exquisite local cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Snowdonia.

Bryn Arms

13.4 km

Experience authentic Welsh cuisine and warm hospitality at Bryn Arms in beautiful Blaenau Ffestiniog.

Discover SPAR Penrhyn, your convenient shopping destination in Penrhyndeudraeth, offering local favorites and essentials for every traveler.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Black Rock Beach Club

1.0 km

Stylish beachside dining and drinks with heated outdoor terrace, BBQ flavors, and a welcoming vibe in Morfa Bychan, North Wales.

Tafarn Glanaber

1.0 km

Cozy coastal bar and restaurant in Morfa Bychan serving fresh Welsh seafood with stunning sea views and a warm, relaxed atmosphere.

Tafarn Pencei

2.4 km

Historic Grade II listed pub on Porthmadog’s harbour, serving traditional ales and diverse food in a welcoming Welsh atmosphere.

The Ship Inn/ Y Llong

2.4 km

A traditional Welsh pub in Porthmadog offering hearty homemade meals and a warm, welcoming atmosphere steeped in maritime heritage.

The Australia

2.6 km

A lively Purple Moose Brewery pub in Porthmadog offering hearty pub fare, vegan options, and a welcoming atmosphere with local craft beers.

Red Lion

2.7 km

A welcoming traditional Welsh pub in Porthmadog with a spacious beer garden, pool table, and lively atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.

Clwb Llyn Bach

2.8 km

A lively pub and social club in Porthmadog offering spirited nights, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.

The Union Inn

3.7 km

Historic 19th-century village pub in Tremadog offering cozy rooms, traditional Welsh fare, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Prince of Wales

5.5 km

A welcoming traditional pub in Criccieth offering hearty meals, lively social atmosphere, and a true taste of Welsh coastal charm.

Bryn Hir Arms

5.7 km

Experience authentic Welsh pub culture with great beers, warm hospitality, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Criccieth.

Oak

6.2 km

A traditional Welsh pub in Penrhyndeudraeth offering friendly atmosphere, well-kept Marston’s ales, hearty food, and a genuine local experience.

The Brondanw Arms

7.9 km

A charming Welsh country pub in Llanfrothen offering hearty food, local ales, dog-friendly warmth, and stunning countryside views.

Tafarn Y Plu

8.0 km

Historic Welsh pub in Llanystumdwy offering traditional fare, local ales, and a cozy atmosphere steeped in Welsh culture.

Tanronnen Inn

12.1 km

Traditional Welsh inn and pub in scenic Beddgelert, offering cozy rooms, hearty home-cooked meals, and warm hospitality near Snowdon.

Prince Llewelyn Hotel

12.1 km

Charming historic hotel in Beddgelert with cozy rooms, hearty dining, and stunning mountain views in the heart of Snowdonia.

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Ynys Cyngar: Historic Coastal Landmark near Porthmadog

A brief summary to Ynys Cyngar

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Train

Car

Bus

Ynys Cyngar location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Ynys Cyngar

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Ynys Cyngar

Origins and Maritime Significance

Industrial Connections and the Slate Trade

Geographical and Scenic Context

Legacy of William Madocks and Regional Development

Present-Day Character and Visitor Experience

Preservation and Cultural Importance

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Ynys Cyngar

Aber-marchnad

Snowdonia Adventure Activities

Site of Plaid Cymru’s founding

Gyrn Goch

Gyrn Ddu

Gorsaf Copa'r Wyddfa Summit Station

Yr Wyddfa

Garnedd Ugain

Coed y Brenin Forest Park

Tre'r Ceiri Hillfort

Snowdon Massif

Yr Eifl

National Trust - South Snowdonia

Cae'r Gors

Unmissable attractions to see

Black Rock Sands Beach

Siop Fawr Portmeirion

Welsh Highland Heritage Railway

Porthmadog Eisteddfod Stone Circle

Amis Réunis

Portmeirion North Wales

The Dome

The Village

Traeth Glaslyn North Wales Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve

Castell Cricieth

Criccieth

Harlech Castle

Gwaith Powdwr North Wales Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve

Llyn Tecwyn Isaf

Amgueddfa Lloyd George Museum

Essential places to dine

Good Mood restaurant

Yr Hen Fecws Restaurant and B&B

Y Sgwâr

Castell Deudraeth Brasserie

Dylan's Criccieth

Tir a Môr

Poachers Restaurant

Caffi Castell Harlech

The Plas Restaurant

The Goat Inn - Tafarn Yr Afr

The Grapes Hotel, Bar & Restaurant

Caffi Colwyn

Y Madryn

Y Bistro yn yr Hebog

Bryn Arms

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Cymru Country Store

Pop Local And Beyond

The Original Factory Shop (Porthmadog)

Crafts North Wales

Boho Bazaar

Pot Jam

The Ship Shop

Bron y Garth Emporium

Atig Helens Attic

Eifion Stores

Castle Gift Shop