Standing on the eastern shore of the Isle of Anglesey, Beaumaris Castle is one of the most fascinating castles in North Wales. This grand fortress, designed with near-perfect symmetry, was never completed, but it remains widely regarded as one of the finest examples of medieval military architecture.
Today, visitors can explore the castle’s history and enjoy sweeping views over the Menai Strait and the Snowdonia mountains beyond. The town itself has excellent restaurants and cafés, and the surrounding area is well worth exploring, as it lies within the Anglesey Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Things to See and Do in Beaumaris
Beaumaris Castle offers plenty to explore. You begin with its water-filled moat and the outer curtain walls with towers and gatehouses, which give a strong sense of the scale and defensive ambition behind the castle’s design. Inside, the inner ward — although never completed — reveal the spaces once intended for domestic buildings, fireplaces, and grand halls. The six great towers and the south gatehouse were left unfinished, never rising to their planned height.
On a clear day, walk up to the walls and towers to take in spectacular views across the Menai Strait, towards Snowdonia, and over Anglesey’s landscapes. Do note that some staircases are quite narrow.
Beyond the castle, the town of Beaumaris is small enough to explore on foot. Stroll its streets to admire the mix of medieval, Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian architecture, as well as the soft, pastel-coloured cottages along the waterfront, and of course the pier. Don’t miss the Tudor House on the main street — an exceptionally well-preserved townhouse, built in the 14th century and considered one of the oldest in Britain.
There is a good selection of shops, cafés and restaurants in Beaumaris. For a lunch break, I enjoyed an excellent meal at the Liverpool Arms Hotel. The Red Boat Ice Cream Shop serves homemade gelato, as well as good coffee and other treats.
Another highlight is a boat trip to Puffin Island (Ynys Seiriol in Welsh), located at the north-east entrance of the Menai Strait. The island is rich in wildlife, including Atlantic grey seals, resident coastal birds, and visiting seabirds. The best season is between April and July, when you are likely to see guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes, and of course, puffins.
If you are driving, there are more gems nearby. Penmon Point Beach is one of Anglesey’s most popular beaches, with great views of Puffin Island and Trwyn Du Lighthouse. Heading south along the coast, stop at Menai Bridge and, a little further on, visit Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch — the town with the longest name in Europe and the second-longest single-word place name in the world.
quick facts about beaumaris
- The castle was built by Edward I as the final link in his “iron ring” of castles in North Wales.
- Work began in 1295 under the architect James of St George, but construction was never completed due to budget constraints and political troubles in Scotland.
- The name “Beaumaris” (Biwmares in Welsh) comes from the Norman French beau marais, meaning “beautiful marsh”, a reference to its setting in marshland near the Menai Strait.
Best Time to Visit Beaumaris
Like many other castles in the country, it is open all-year around although times vary depending on the season.
You can take advantage of longer daylight and warmer temperatures in the spring and summer when planning your trip. There will be likely more events in the area and more things to do like a boat trip to Puffin Island, but don’t be put off by the colder months.
Personally, I find that visiting this kind of historic sites is equally fascinating in the autumn or winter season, where the more dramatic sky and light creates an inspiring atmosphere. And it also gives you something interesting to do on a Saturday or Sunday, or even a day out during the Christmas holiday can be a good idea, which is exactly what the family and I did the last time around.
Useful Information When Visiting Beaumaris
Public Transport: There are no trains to Beaumaris. The nearest mainline station is Bangor, from where bus 58 runs to Beaumaris.
Parking: There are two car parks close to the castle — Castle Car & Coach Park and Beaumaris Green Car Park. Both are pay-and-display.
EV Charging Points: Two slow chargers are available by the Leisure Centre (Canolfan Beaumaris), close to the castle.
Public Toilets: Facilities are located just outside the castle, with more inside the visitor centre area.
Tickets: A standard adult ticket to visit the castle costs £10. Family and child tickets are also available. For full details, visit the Cadw website.
Boat Trips: Excursions to Puffin Island can be booked online via the Sea Coast Safari website.
Penmon Point: If you plan to drive there, please note that a £2.50 toll is charged.
