Penmon Priory

While visiting the isle of Anglesey last year, we stumbled upon a quiet corner of the island called Penmon. The priory on the site is well worth a visit. There has been a monastic settlement on this small promontory since the 6th century.

The monastery - called St. Seiriol's - was established and grew until a wooden church was built in the 10th century. This was destroyed in 971 and a stone structure was built to replace it in the 12th century.

The oldest parts of the priory still standing, date from around 1140. It was enlarged in the 13th century under rule from the Augustinians. There was a dining area on the first floor with dormitory above and a series of cellars underneath.

The church of St. Seiriol was the focal point of the priory. The dovecot nearby was built about 1600 as a source of eggs and meat.

Containing nest boxes for 1000 nesting pairs and a system of ladders around a central column to allow for easy access to the nests, it remains an impressive structure.