Old Church of St Nidan, Llanidan

The Old Church of St Nidan stands in the community of Llanidan on Anglesey, close to the Menai Strait. A church has occupied the site since the 7th century, when St Nidan founded it. The oldest parts of the present building date from the 14th century, with a second nave added around 1500. The church was partly demolished in 1844 after a new church was built nearby. Only the western end and the central arcade of six arches remain today. The church is recognised as a fine example of a simple medieval rural church. In the 12th century Gerald of Wales described a curious stone carving that always returned to the church overnight. A sandstone chest containing bone fragments was found beneath the altar, possibly relics of a saint. The 13th-century font and chest were later moved to the new church. The remaining structure is a Grade II* listed building. Visitors find the roofless nave and the arcade of arches standing in a quiet churchyard. The western end, now enclosed by a wall, forms the main surviving section. The churchyard was used for burials until 1902, and the nearby Plas Llanidan estate has restored the building. The grounds are occasionally opened to the public, offering a glimpse of Anglesey’s medieval heritage.