Uncover the history and architectural brilliance of this unfinished masterpiece, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into the military strategies of the time.
Where is Beaumaris Castle?
Beaumaris Castle is in the town of Beaumaris on the Isle of Anglesey in Wales, UK.
The castle is situated near the eastern entrance to the Menai Strait - the strait which separates the island of Anglesey from Gwynedd, on the mainland of Wales - overlooking the waters between Anglesey and the mainland of North Wales.
When was Beaumaris Castle built?
Construction of the castle began in 1295.
Who built Beaumaris Castle?
King Edward I of England built the castle as an integral element of his campaign to conquer and control North Wales. It was to be one of the 'iron ring' of castles surrounding the native Welsh territories.
The design and construction of Beaumaris Castle are attributed to the master military architect James of St. George, who worked on several of Edward I's castles in Wales during the late 13th century.
The castle is known for its concentric design and strategic location, although it was never completed according to the original plans.
Beaumaris Castle is a symphony in stone – widely recognised as the pinnacle of British medieval castle building. Its perfect symmetry, moats and concentric walls are still awe-inspiring, more than 700 years after it was built.
Standing on the walls and looking across the sublime Menai Strait, you can spot the least known of Snowdonia’s mountains on the horizon. Carnedd Dafydd and Carnedd Llywelyn, named after the defiant princes, reach over 900m (3,000ft).
Why was Beaurmaris Castle never finished?
Edward I’s castle broke the bank as well as the proud spirit of the Celts and construction was halted in 1330.
Who built the Menai Suspension Bridge?
Designed to span the Menai Strait, the Menai Suspension Bridge was designed and built by the civil engineer Thomas Telford.
Construction of the bridge began in 1819 and was completed in 1826.
It played a crucial role in improving transportation links between the two regions and is considered an engineering marvel of its time.
Visiting Beaumaris
The town itself is now a pleasingly traditional seaside resort, with coastal strands and grassy downs. The recently revamped little pier is a reminder that this was once a ferry port.
Today, boats trips from here circle the nature reserve of Puffin Island, just off Anglesey’s eastern tip. Puffins are rather scarce, but countless other seabirds thrive and there’s every chance of seeing harbour seals, dolphin and porpoise on the excursion – even a shipwreck. There are also regular fishing outings if you fancy catching your own dinner.
Just north of Beaumaris is tiny Penmon, brimming over with history. Atmospheric monastic ruins, a 12th-century Romanesque church, Anglo-Irish or Viking crosses and a healing well all jostle for attention.
It’s an evocative place to explore on foot; from here the Anglesey Coastal Path meanders above the shoreline to Penmon Point, where the waters of the Irish Sea and Menai Strait meet and swirl around Puffin Island, marked by the hooped lighthouse of Trwyn Du.
Useful Information
HOW TO GET THERE
Beaumaris is five miles north-east of Menai Bridge along the A545; well-signed roads also link from the A5 off the Britannia Tubular Bridge at LlanfairPG. Arriva Cymru buses 53, 57, 58 from Bangor, Llangefni and Menai Bridge.
FIND OUT MORE
Beaumaris town information
01248 713177
www.beaumaris.org.uk
EAT
Harry’s Bistro
Beaumaris LL58 8HU
01248 812976
www.harrysbistro.com
Smart, contemporary restaurant with seasonal Welsh menus using island produce.
STAY
Bishopsgate House Hotel
54 Castle Street,
Beaumaris LL58 8BB
01248 810302
bishopsgatehotel.co.uk
Relax in the comfy town centre retreat near the castle. Check availability and book on TripAdvisor.
VISIT
Oriel Ynys Môn
Rhosmeirch,
Llangefni LL77 7TQ
01248 724444
www.visitanglesey.co.uk
Looking for more inspirational Days Out?
If you're in the area, check out our guide Llanddwyn Island or enjoy walks around Anglesey. And, if you're looking for other castles to visit, try Gwynedd Castle and Gwydir Castle in Snowdonia, or Caerphilly Castle.
