Anglesey Camping Weekend 12/13/14 September 2025 – Better than expected by Sally Parker

Unlike the previous Anglesey weekend (number 3) of scorching sun and calm waters, weekend number 4 was the polar opposite.  Daunted by the Met Office warnings, the turnout of members was predictably lower.  However, the event was not cancelled, and a stalwart of regular campers attended with a few newbies, myself included.

After careful selection of the best pitch and with help to set the tent up before the rain came (thanks, Lucy), a group of us met up at the handy Bert’s pub.  A paddler’s brainstorming session was led by Ella, who’d clearly done her homework. Others stroked the dogs and swapped dog stories and photos of their pets.

It was decided at the briefing on Saturday morning not to drive around the island chasing sheltered water.  Instead, we were to buddy up, car share and opt for a fun session of skills and surfing practice at Trearddur Bay.  This turned out to be the best use of time and money, as no yellow lines on the newly surfaced road meant we could park close to the launch spot whilst avoiding any parking fines.

The tide was incoming, waves on the choppy side with white horses gathering speed outside of the bay. Keith suggested we primarily split into two groups, have a play in the surf and test out the conditions on the left side of the bay. Maybe we could paddle out to the first red buoy, and stronger paddlers could make it to the second one? I thought I’d last five minutes, but stretched it to eight.  The sun came out, and although the wind was gusty, we headed out with enthusiasm and a little excitement. I think we all came out of our comfort zone and had some fun.  Anyway, I was smiling.

After resting in a bay, Keith suggested we cross to the other side of the bay.  There were some big waves to traverse. Most of us made it across, but one paddler (Dave) took a swim.  The rest of us watched and waited for the rescue party to return.  A challenge was set to paddle around a rocky island or to an easier buoy.  Nervously and at the back of the pack, I decided to try for the buoy.  I could see the waves crashing onto this little island and then watched as a paddler (Frankie) was engulfed by one. Another rescue ensued, and all was well.

It was nearly lunch time, so we headed back towards the launch point. Most of the party went back out across the bay, but Frankie, Lucy and I opted to paddle along the shoreline, which turned out to be trickier than anticipated.  I was soon overturned in two feet of water, face planted in the sand, with concerned onlookers not quite knowing what to do.  I reassured them I was fine and then walked the boat slowly back along the bay. Lesson learned.

After lunch, the main body of paddlers, who had some energy left, headed to Four Mile Bridge for another skills session.  I explored a section of the coast path from the campsite and had a relaxing afternoon with a little siesta and even some yoga.  The weather not being suitable for the usual BBQ, and an unintended communication error, meant that we drifted into separate groups for the evening.

For the last day with numbers depleting and more inclement weather encroaching, a plan was made to kayak a stretch of the Menai Straits one way and shuttle cars between Anglesey Zoo and Menai slipway.  Going with the flow, wind behind us and grey skies, 13 of us (lucky for some), paddled to Port Dinorwic (Y Felinheli) for elevenses.  Refreshed, we continued past Plas Newdd and arrived at some moving water, which added a little excitement for those who wanted to practice breaking in and out of the flow.  It was an opportunity to show off white water skills.  Ella was the star paddler, and despite being rammed by Eamon’s boat, they remained friends.

We paddled in quiet unison under the bridges and arrived at the slipway content after a good two hours or so outing.  Cars shuttled and boats loaded, we headed home or to Starbucks for a debrief. 

Thanks to all who organised the weekend (especially Keith). Despite the weather, it was lovely to be out and active.  I enjoyed everyone’s company, and it was great to meet so many helpful and kind paddlers.  Thanks for all your support and encouragement.  Camping wasn’t so bad after all, especially in the van.