The Bardsey Island Trust are those people responsible for the administration and upkeep of the island, without whom the island would not be able to function as it does today. The Trust bought the island in 1979 following a public appeal.
The Trust welcomes visitors to this historic island, once a famous place of pilgrimage and the legendary burial place of 20,000 Saints. The ruins of the 13th Century monastery tower are the remains of St. Mary's Augustinian Abbey. The farmhouses on the island , built over 100 years ago by the then owner Lord Newborough, are listed by the Royal Commission of Ancient Monuments. The only building still in use as a farmhouse is Ty Pellaf, currently occupied by the Island Shepherd. Another old farmhouse, Cristin, has been a Bird and Field Observatory since 1953. The remaining 6 farmhouses are let during summer months to visitors on a self catering basis.
In 1986 the island became a National Nature Reserve and is run by agreement between the Trust and the Countryside Council for Wales. The Trust actively conserves the wildlife, the buildings and other features of historical and archaeological interest. Farming, mainly sheep and a small number of Welsh Black cattle, will continue as this is important in maintaining the character of the island.
For more information about the trust and to book accomodation on the island, contact trust via their website: http://www.bardsey.org/