Mechell Notable Buildings and Listed Architecture
The community of Mechell is home to a rich tapestry of architectural history, ranging from medieval domestic remains to grand manor houses. While the area is well-known for its four extant medieval churches—all of which hold Listed Building status (a legal protection granted to buildings of special architectural or historic interest)—the region also boasts a diverse array of other protected structures that tell the story of Anglesey's development over the centuries.
Key Facts
- Plas Bodewryd is a Grade II* listed mansion dating back to the 15th or 16th century.
- The Bodewryd Dovecote contains approximately 400 nesting sites.
- Llanfechell features a unique War Memorial that incorporates a functional clock.
- The region contains a mix of Grade II and Grade II* listed structures across Bodewryd, Llanfechell, Tregele, and Carreglefn.
- Architectural styles range from 17th-century central hall houses to 18th-century farmhouses.
Bodewryd: Grand Estates and Utility
Bodewryd is characterized by its imposing residential and supporting structures. The centerpiece is Plas Bodewryd, a Grade II* listed mansion. Originally a Hall house from the 15th or 16th century, it has seen substantial additions in every subsequent century, reflecting the evolving tastes and needs of its inhabitants.
Within the grounds of the mansion lies the Bodewryd Colomendy, or dovecote. This Grade II listed late 17th-century structure features stone walls that incorporate around 400 nests, serving as a testament to historical agricultural practices.
Additionally, the Church of St Mary in Bodewryd features a Grade II listed lychgate (a roofed gateway to a churchyard), adding to the area's ecclesiastical charm.
Llanfechell: Village Heritage
Llanfechell offers a glimpse into the civic and residential life of the community. Brynddu is a prominent Grade II listed 18th-century house, historically associated with the Bulkeley family. The village also retains the Old Rectory, a 17th-century building with additions from the 18th century.
The village center is marked by Crown Terrace, a Grade II listed row of three buildings that historically included a shop and a bank.
In the village square, the War Memorial stands as a Grade II listed tribute to those lost in the Great War, uniquely incorporating a clock into its design. Other notable structures include Pont-y-Plas, a road bridge featuring square headed arches and steps leading down to the water.
Tregele, Mynydd Mechell, and Carreglefn
The surrounding areas of Tregele and Carreglefn are dotted with historic farmhouses and unique dwellings. In Tregele, Cefn-Coch is a Grade II listed 17th-century central hall type house, distinguished by its pointed internal doorways and period balusters. The area also contains Cae Mawr, a late 18th-century farmhouse, and the medieval domestic remains of Groesfechan.
The local industrial history is preserved at Melin Cefn Coch (also known as Ty'n y Felin), a Grade II listed old wind mill.
In Mynydd Mechell, the Llanddygfael-groes is Grade II listed, and the area features Ffynnon Ddygfael, a well shaft located close to a pool. Nearby in Llanfflewyn, the building known as Twll-y-clawdd also holds Grade II status.
Carreglefn is rich in listed cottages and structures, including Pant-y-cryntach, Ty Newydd, Y Stryd, Hen Bont, and the cottage at Pant-y-Gist, all of which are Grade II listed.
Summary of Notable Listed Buildings
| Location | Building/Structure | Listing Grade | Period/Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bodewryd | Plas Bodewryd | Grade II* | 15th/16th Century Hall house |
| Bodewryd | Bodewryd Colomendy | Grade II | Late 17th C. Dovecote |
| Llanfechell | War Memorial | Grade II | Great War memorial with clock |
| Tregele | Cefn-Coch | Grade II | 17th C. central hall house |
| Tregele | Melin Cefn Coch | Grade II | Old wind mill |
| Llanfechell | Brynddu | Grade II | 18th Century house |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most historically significant house in Bodewryd?
Plas Bodewryd is the most significant, holding a Grade II* listing. It began as a 15th or 16th-century Hall house and has been expanded in every century since.
What is a dovecote, and is there one in Mechell?
A dovecote is a structure used to house pigeons or doves. The Bodewryd Colomendy is a Grade II listed late 17th-century dovecote featuring approximately 400 nests.
What makes the Llanfechell War Memorial unique?
Beyond its role as a Grade II listed memorial to the fallen of the Great War, it is notable for incorporating a clock into its structure.
Are there any industrial remains in the Tregele area?
Yes, Melin Cefn Coch (Ty'n y Felin) is a Grade II listed old wind mill located in Tregele.
Which buildings in Llanfechell are associated with prominent families?
Brynddu, a Grade II listed 18th-century house, was the home of the Bulkeley family.