Beaumaris Castle
A stunning, unfinished 13th-century fortress renowned for its perfect symmetry and ambitious medieval engineering.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Beaumaris Castle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning, unfinished 13th-century fortress renowned for its perfect symmetry and ambitious medieval engineering.
"Even though it was never fully completed, it’s still an impressive and beautifully designed fortress."
🚶♀️ Accessible Grounds
The ground floor is accessible for those with mobility issues, and the castle offers lovely views of the town and sea.
🐶 Dog-Friendly (Mostly)
Dogs are welcome on the ground floor, but not on the upper walls or corridors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Imposing Outer Walls
Outer Bailey
Walk the perimeter of this perfectly symmetrical fortress, a testament to Edward I's ambitious military engineering.
The Unfinished Masterpiece
Interior Courtyard
Marvel at the sheer scale and design of a castle that, despite never being finished, remains one of the most impressive in Britain.
Panoramic Views from the Turrets
Castle Turrets
Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the Menai Strait and the charming town of Beaumaris.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Views
Unfinished Ambition, Complete Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Accessible Grounds
The ground floor is accessible for those with mobility issues, and the castle offers lovely views of the town and sea.
🐶 Dog-Friendly (Mostly)
Dogs are welcome on the ground floor, but not on the upper walls or corridors.
📸 Drone Photography
Stunning aerial shots are possible, capturing the castle's unique layout. Check local regulations first. +1
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Fun
There's a great play park right behind the castle, perfect for families.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Accessible Grounds
The ground floor is accessible for those with mobility issues, and the castle offers lovely views of the town and sea.
🐶 Dog-Friendly (Mostly)
Dogs are welcome on the ground floor, but not on the upper walls or corridors.
📸 Drone Photography
Stunning aerial shots are possible, capturing the castle's unique layout. Check local regulations first. +1
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Fun
There's a great play park right behind the castle, perfect for families.
☕ Nearby Cafes
Enjoy afternoon tea at @beaustearoom for a delightful break after exploring.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Beaumaris Castle for its impressive architectural design, particularly its symmetry, and its well-preserved state despite being unfinished. The convenient location, affordable parking, and nearby amenities like fish and chip shops add to the positive experience. Some note that while dogs are allowed on the ground floor, access to the walls is restricted.
"Beautiful castle in a lovely little village, parking is right next door and cheap. There's a great chippy right close by in the village and some nice shops close too. There's a small gift shop for the castle and they show an educational film about the castle inside the grounds. Plenty of great photo opportunities and a great visit if you have a couple hours to kill."
T Dranny
"I really enjoyed my visit to Beaumaris Castle. Even though it was never fully completed, it’s still an impressive and beautifully designed fortress. The symmetry and scale are striking, and learning about its history—from Edward I’s ambitions to the challenges that halted its construction—made the experience even more interesting. The peaceful surroundings and views added to the charm. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in Anglesey!"
Lee Cuthbertson
"A lovely castle ruins. There's a video on loop giving you the story of the castle that was never finished. A really interesting back story about the castle. You're able to explore the castle walls and lovely views of the town and sea. We took my parents and my dad has a mobility scooter and the grounds were really accessible. And a lovely shop on site to get gifts, memorabilia or Welsh themed items. Highly recommend 👌"
Tom Jackson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
While Beaumaris Castle is a popular destination, visiting without a car can be challenging. Public transport options to Beaumaris itself are limited. Many visitors opt for day tours from larger cities like Chester or Llandudno, which often include stops at multiple castles. If you're staying in North Wales, consider basing yourself in a town like Bangor and using local buses or taxis to reach Beaumaris.
Yes, there is convenient and affordable parking located right next to the castle, making it easily accessible for visitors arriving by car.
Beaumaris itself is a charming town to stay in, offering a direct connection to the castle and local amenities. Alternatively, nearby towns like Menai Bridge or even Bangor provide more accommodation options and are a short drive or bus ride away.
Absolutely! Beaumaris Castle is a key stop on many North Wales itineraries, often visited alongside other 'Iron Ring' castles like Conwy, Caernarfon, and Harlech. It's a great destination for a road trip focused on history and scenic beauty.
For a comprehensive castle tour, consider booking a guided day trip or renting a car. Many tours combine Beaumaris with other UNESCO World Heritage castles like Conwy, Caernarfon, and Harlech, offering efficient transport and insightful commentary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee to explore Beaumaris Castle. While prices can vary, it's generally considered well worth the cost for the historical experience and the well-preserved structure.
It's advisable to check the official Cadw website for the most up-to-date information on booking requirements. While walk-ins are often possible, booking in advance can sometimes secure your entry, especially during peak season.
Opening hours for Beaumaris Castle typically vary by season. It's best to consult the official Cadw website for the most accurate and current opening times before your visit.
Yes, Beaumaris Castle is very family-friendly. Beyond exploring the castle itself, there's a fantastic play park located just behind the castle grounds, making it a great outing for families with kids.
Information on discounts, such as family tickets or concessions, is usually available on the official Cadw website. It's worth checking for any available offers before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the castle's impressive outer walls, interior courtyards, and the chapel. Information points are scattered throughout, and a map provides additional historical context. The castle's symmetrical design is a key feature to observe.
Beaumaris Castle is remarkably well-preserved, though it was never fully completed. It's considered one of the best examples of an 'abandoned' castle that is nearly intact, offering a fantastic glimpse into medieval construction.
Built by King Edward I of England starting in 1295, Beaumaris Castle was intended to be the ultimate fortress in his 'Iron Ring' of castles. Its ambitious design and scale were never fully realized due to funding and time constraints.
Beaumaris Castle is primarily a self-guided experience. While there are information points and maps available, dedicated guided tours may not be regularly offered. Check with Cadw for any special event programming.
The symmetrical design offers many great angles. The outer walls, interior courtyards, and views from the turrets provide stunning photographic opportunities. Drone footage also captures its unique layout beautifully.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the village of Beaumaris has several dining options. There's a highly-rated fish and chip shop nearby, and for a more refined experience, @beaustearoom offers delightful afternoon tea.
While specific rules can vary, generally, picnicking is permitted in designated areas around historical sites. It's always a good idea to check with the site staff or Cadw for their current policy. The grounds offer lovely spots for a picnic.
Beaumaris offers a range of food options, from traditional fish and chips to charming tea rooms and cafes. You can also find local pubs serving classic British fare.
Beaumaris Castle itself has a small gift shop, but no dedicated cafe or restaurant. However, the village of Beaumaris, located just outside the castle walls, offers numerous dining establishments.
Red Boat Ice Cream Parlour in Beaumaris is a popular spot, highly recommended by visitors for delicious ice cream after a day of exploring.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hour' just after sunrise or before sunset offers beautiful, soft light for photography. Weekday mornings also provide fewer crowds, allowing for unobstructed shots. +1
Drone photography can capture stunning aerial views of Beaumaris Castle's unique layout. However, always ensure you are aware of and comply with local drone regulations and any specific restrictions at the castle site. +1
Its near-perfect symmetry, imposing scale, and coastal location make Beaumaris Castle incredibly photogenic. The well-preserved structure and surrounding landscape offer diverse photographic opportunities.
The outer walls offer excellent perspectives on the castle's symmetry. Climbing the turrets provides panoramic shots of the castle and the Menai Strait. The approach from the town also offers a classic view.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the castle, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details on the turrets. A drone offers unique aerial perspectives. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The castle itself, with its ramparts and courtyards, sparks imagination, and the ground floor is accessible for younger ones. Don't forget to treat them to some delicious ice cream from a local parlour like Red Boat! Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on the castle grounds, or grab some classic fish and chips from a nearby shop. The town of Beaumaris is also very welcoming to families, with plenty of shops and cafes to explore. It's a destination that truly caters to a fun and educational family day out.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Combine your castle visit with a leisurely stroll through the charming town of Beaumaris, perhaps enjoying a quiet coffee or a scenic walk along the coast. The castle's relatively compact size means you can explore it thoroughly in a couple of hours, leaving ample time to discover the surrounding beauty of Anglesey.
+1🏰 History Buffs
Its near-perfect symmetry and ambitious scale, despite never being fully completed, offer a unique case study for historians and enthusiasts. Delve into the castle's fascinating backstory, learning about the challenges that halted its construction and its strategic importance. The information points and the educational film provide valuable insights. Don't miss the chance to explore the intricate details of its defensive features and imagine the lives of those who lived and worked within its walls.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of Beaumaris Castle
The castle's design features a moat, an inner and outer ward, and a series of formidable towers and gatehouses. Its layout is a masterclass in defensive strategy, with multiple layers of protection. Visitors can explore the inner ward, walk along the outer walls, and imagine the bustling activity that would have taken place had it been fully operational. The educational film and information points within the castle grounds provide valuable context about its history and construction challenges.
Many visitors are struck by the geometric precision of Beaumaris Castle, a feature that sets it apart from other medieval fortifications. This emphasis on design and symmetry, even in a military structure, highlights a fascinating aspect of medieval planning. The castle's location on the coast also adds to its dramatic presence, offering picturesque views and a sense of historical grandeur.
+1Family Fun at Beaumaris Castle
+1Beyond the playground, the castle itself offers opportunities for imaginative play. Children can explore the ramparts, imagine sieges, and discover hidden corners, making history come alive. The relatively accessible ground floor also means that even younger children can participate in the exploration. The nearby village of Beaumaris also offers family-friendly amenities, including ice cream parlours and fish and chip shops, perfect for a post-castle treat.
Many parents have noted how kid-oriented Wales is, with playgrounds often integrated into historical sites. Beaumaris Castle exemplifies this, ensuring that a visit can be both educational and thoroughly enjoyable for the entire family. The combination of historical intrigue and dedicated play facilities makes it a memorable outing.
Exploring Beaumaris: Beyond the Castle Walls
For those looking for a short walk, the Beaumaris loop is a popular choice. This easy, circular trail offers stunning views of the coastline, the mountains, and the castle itself. It's suitable for all abilities and can be enjoyed year-round, making it a perfect addition to a castle visit.
Food enthusiasts will find Beaumaris equally appealing. The village is known for its excellent fish and chips, and for those seeking a more leisurely experience, afternoon tea at places like @beaustearoom is highly recommended. The combination of historical sites, scenic walks, and local culinary delights makes Beaumaris a well-rounded destination.
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