The History of The Ship Inn: 300 Years at Red Wharf Bay
Standing directly on the shoreline of Red Wharf Bay, known in Welsh as Traeth Coch, The Ship Inn is one of the most historic waterfront pubs on the Anglesey coast. Built in 1740 as a row of mariners’ cottages, the building has stood for nearly 300 years, offering shelter, warmth and hospitality to sailors, shipbuilders, walkers and local families.
Many visitors discover The Ship Inn while searching for a pub with sea views in Anglesey and stay for the history, the food and the warm Welsh welcome that has defined this coastal pub for generations.
A Historic Welsh Pub on the Anglesey Coast (Since 1740)
Rooted in the heritage of Ynys Môn, The Ship Inn has long been part of everyday Welsh coastal life. From the age of sail through to modern times, Red Wharf Bay was a working shoreline — and the inn stood at its heart.
Known locally as Traeth Coch (Red Beach), this stretch of coastline has witnessed Iron Age settlements, Viking incursions and centuries of maritime trade. Through it all, The Ship Inn remained a place of gathering — somewhere to share food, stories and shelter after long days at sea or on the land.
Today, it remains a traditional Welsh coastal pub: relaxed, welcoming and shaped by the rhythms of tide and season.
Uninterrupted Coastal Views Across Red Wharf Bay
With uninterrupted views across Red Wharf Bay, The Ship Inn is widely regarded as one of the most scenic waterfront pubs in North Wales.
At low tide, the sands stretch endlessly towards the horizon; at high tide, the sea reaches the shoreline just beyond the pub. Light, weather and tide transform the view throughout the day, from bright coastal mornings to glowing sunsets across the bay.
It is this ever-changing landscape that has drawn sailors, walkers and visitors here for centuries and continues to make The Ship Inn a destination pub for those seeking exceptional views on the Anglesey coast.
Wildlife on the Bay
Red Wharf Bay is alive with wildlife throughout the year. Dolphins are regularly spotted offshore, seabirds skim the waterline, and seals can sometimes be seen resting along quieter stretches of the coast.
From a table by the fire or a seat overlooking the bay, it’s not unusual for guests to pause mid-conversation as something extraordinary unfolds across the water — a reminder that nature is always close at this seaside pub.
The Ship Inn & the Birth of the Land Rover
The Ship Inn holds a unique place in global automotive history.
In 1947, Maurice Wilks, Chief Engineer of Rover, famously sketched the first outline of the Land Rover directly into the sands of Red Wharf Bay. Inspired by the rugged Welsh coastline and the working vehicles of the area, this simple drawing would become one of the most iconic vehicle designs in the world.
Today, this remarkable story is brought to life in our dedicated Land Rover history room, which showcases the deep connection between the bay, the vehicle and the landscape that inspired it.
The room can also be booked for private events, offering a distinctive historic setting for celebrations, gatherings and meetings in Anglesey.
Reserve the Land Rover room for your next event here
A Living History Throughout the Pub
The history of The Ship Inn isn’t confined to a single room it surrounds you.
Throughout the pub, guests will discover historic artwork often created by our very own guests, photographs, maritime artefacts and curious items, carefully gathered from local archives, families and long-standing connections to Red Wharf Bay.
Each space tells part of the story to everyday coastal life creating a setting where history feels lived-in.
On the Anglesey Coastal Path
Located directly on the Anglesey Coastal Path, The Ship Inn is a natural stopping point for walkers exploring the island’s dramatic coastline.
Perfectly placed on the Benllech to Moelfre stretch, we offer hearty food, roaring fires, real ales and a warm welcome — whatever the weather. Muddy boots and well-behaved dogs are always welcome.
A New Chapter for a Historic Waterfront Pub
In March 2025, The Ship Inn entered a new chapter under the stewardship of a local family with more than 40 years of connection to Red Wharf Bay.
While modern improvements have been carefully made — including cellar upgrades to serve some of the finest draught beers & cask ales on the island, our commitment remains unchanged:
Legendary Sunday roasts and local favourites, including our Welsh Dragon Pie
Dog-friendly and family-friendly, year-round
A welcoming coastal pub for locals, walkers and visitors alike
Visit The Ship Inn, Red Wharf Bay
Whether you visit for the history, the views, the wildlife or the food, The Ship Inn remains what it has always been — a true Welsh waterfront pub shaped by the bay itself.
Every pint still comes with a side of history.
We take reservations for both lunch and dinner, and always leave a few tables for walk-ins if you’re passing through. Whether you’re planning a relaxed meal after a day on the mountain or a catch-up over good food and wine, we’d love to have you. Book online to secure your spot - specially at weekends - or pop in and we’ll do our best to find you a table.
Have a question?
Book a table.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Ship Inn one of the oldest pubs in Anglesey?
Yes. Originally built in 1740 as mariners’ cottages, The Ship Inn has been part of Red Wharf Bay’s coastal life for nearly 300 years.
Does The Ship Inn have sea views?
Yes. The pub enjoys uninterrupted views across Red Wharf Bay & North Wales, with the scenery changing dramatically with the tide and seasons.
Can the Land Rover room be booked for private events?
Yes. Our dedicated Land Rover history room is available for private hire and offers a unique historic setting in Anglesey.
Is The Ship Inn dog friendly?
Yes. Well-behaved dogs are welcome inside, making it a popular stop for walkers and coastal visitors. Whether you visit for the history, the views, the wildlife or the food, The Ship Inn remains what it has always been a true Welsh waterfront pub shaped by the bay itself.
Every pint still comes with a side of history.