Spotlight On: Beaumaris
Spend the day in one of North Wales’ historic hubs
Pastel-painted facades, a mix of old-world architecture and a stunning seafront are just some of the things that make Anglesey’s Beaumaris a must-visit. An important site throughout the ages, Beaumaris was once a Viking settlement, but the real developments came sometime later when Edward I was constructing his ‘Ring of Iron’ around Wales. This led to the partial construction of Beaumaris Castle, a project that was later scrapped due to dwindling funds and Edward I having his attention diverted by troubles in Scotland.
Beaumaris continued to become more popular in every era, hence the town’s attractive mix of Medieval, Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian architecture. As well as the castle, pier, gaol and a Tudor townhouse, other significant buildings nearby include Bryn Mel Manor. Situated on the banks of the strait in neighbouring Glyngarth, Bryn Mel Manor was originally commissioned by William Imrie of the White Star Shipping Company, owner of the Titanic. With its castellated accents and turrets, this beautiful building has since been converted into private apartments. Slightly further along the same side of the strait, you’ll also find Chateau Rhianfa, a French-inspired dower house built in 1849 for Sir John Hay-Williams, Baronet of Bodelwyddan, who gifted the property to his wife, Lady Sarah.
As a North Wales native myself, I jump at any excuse to get out and explore somewhere new for the day. With endless links to the unique history of the island, Beaumaris is a delightful destination for a short trip to North Wales – here’s my guide to spending the perfect day there.
Want to stay longer than a day? I don’t blame you. Take a look at the collection of Beaumaris Holiday Cottages to book your trip.
Where is Beaumaris?
Beaumaris is on the southeast side of The Isle of Anglesey, looking back at mainland Wales over the waters of the Menai Strait. Accessed along the narrow A545 Beaumaris Road, the town sits on a coastal plain with spellbinding views out across the Carneddau and Snowdonia mountains.
Important info: Where to park for visiting Beaumaris
Beaumaris is a popular tourism destination, which means that the carparks throughout the town can fill up quickly. There are lots of carparks to choose from though, so I’d suggest heading for one of the following:
- Beaumaris Green Car Park (LL58 8BU) – A large, popular carpark on the seafront with a barrier entry and height restriction of 2.1m. £6 for the day or £3 after 6pm. There is also free street parking just outside of the entrance with a limit of 1 hour if you’re only planning a quick trip.
- Beaumaris Castle Car & Coach Park (LL58 8AL) – Another spacious option slightly further from the town centre, but beside the castle. £6 for 12 hours.
- Leisure Centre Car Park (LL58 8AL) – A smaller, pay & display option on the other side of the castle. Up to 4 hours is £4.
Is there any free parking in Beaumaris?
There is free parking available throughout Beaumaris centre and on the beachfront, but keep in mind that most of these spots have a time limit of 1 hour. Always park considerately and keep one eye on the time!
What does the name Beaumaris mean?
The name Beaumaris has ancient origins linked to the never-completed castle on the edge of the town. While being constructed atop marshland by Norman-French builders sometime around 1295, the name beaux marais, meaning ‘fair marsh’ was born. The castle was part of Edward I of England’s plan to conquer North Wales but was never completed.
Morning: Walk some of the coastal path before discovering
As a firm believer in the many purported health benefits of spending time by the sea, I’d suggest starting your day in Beaumaris with a walk along the Wales Coast Path. Encircling the entire island, the Ynys Môn segment of the larger Wales Coast Path offers an insight into the island’s unique history, architecture, flora and fauna – not to mention the stonking views out across to Snowdonia and the Carneddau.
So, step out of your Beaumaris holiday cottage (delicious breakfast from Central Bakery optional) and head in either direction along the coastline – the entire coast path is well signposted – and enjoy a leisurely morning amble for as long as you like. If you’re a serious walker up for a lengthy walk, you could choose to turn left at the waterfront and head along the coastal path to Penmon Point, where you’ll find a lighthouse and views out to Puffin Island, which is the home of the native cormorants. It’s about 4.5 miles each way to and from Penmon Point, so make sure to leave well-equipped and are prepared to be on your feet for up to 4 hours. There is a cafe at Penmon, Pilot House Cafe, for a well-earned rest stop. Alternatively, if you’d rather drive to a nearby beach, Anglesey has lots of them – take a look at our guide to the best beaches on Anglesey.
Once you’ve drank in sufficient sea views and stretched your legs, head back to Beaumaris for lunch. There are plenty of lunch spots to choose from, but I’d always recommend hearty pub fare from either The Bull, The Liverpool Arms or the George & Dragon.
Afternoon: Discover the history and the high street
With so many sites of historical importance crammed into such a small area, it’s easy to see them all in just a couple of hours. Beaumaris Gaol and Court is a must-see, and you can simply turn up to pay the admission fee without a reservation (£7 per adult, opening times vary between the seasons, last entry is 16:00.) A true time capsule, the prison is a window into the dire penal system of the 1800s with a fully-intact ‘treadmill’ that utilised the hard labour of the inmates to pump water up to the cells. I’d follow that up with a trip to the castle, a 7-minute walk away and £10 per adult entry, for the full historical experience.
I’d then spend the final hours of the afternoon browsing the wealth of independent shops on the high street. As well as homewares and gift shops such as Article and Janet Bell, you can find clothing shops, souvenir outlets and Stiwdio Biwmares, a dedicated arts workshop and exhibition space.
Want a more leisurely, indulgent afternoon? The impressive Chateau Rhianfa hotel I mentioned earlier offers a range of dining options. I’ve been for afternoon tea a handful of times over the last few years and it’s always been exceptional – the ornate settings overlooking the Menai Strait are something really special.
Early evening: Dinner and dancing lights on the water
The food and drink scene on Anglesey is something to be reckoned with. Not only is Menai Bridge (just down the road) the birthplace of the popular North Wales Dylan’s restaurant and shop chain, but Anglesey as a whole produces some incredible stuff. Halen Môn Sea Salt is one example, Menai Oysters & Mussels is another and Caws Rhyd y Delyn is yet another. The produce here really does come from both land and sea, with artisans and makers perfecting their craft over decades. For those with a sweet tooth, the island is also home to a chocolate factory, where experienced pastry chef Richard Holt (who gave up London in favour of Wales’ last-working windmill) makes magic with sweet treats.
So, to round off the ideal day in Beaumaris, good food is non-negotiable. For Michelin dining with far-reaching renown, Stephen Steven’s Sosban and the Old Butchers in nearby Menai Bridge provides a dinner service every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening, but you’ll need to plan well ahead to get in here – it’s a deservedly popular and intimate spot. The Menai branch of Dylan’s is an excellent alternative if you can’t get in there – requesting a table overlooking the water is a great move for special dates.
In Beaumaris itself, The Midland is a sophisticated spot for tapas and wine, with the same focus on locally-produced food as those mentioned above. Once you’ve satisfied your appetite, be sure to take an early evening stroll along the seafront – or Beaumaris Pier if it’s open – and watch as the lights of Bangor and Caernarfon come to life over the water – I can’t think of a more romantic way to end your day.
Book your Beaumaris holiday cottage
The founders of Oyster Holiday Cottages, Jack and Will, are a family team (brothers, to be exact) who want to bring a more friendly, local feel back to holiday lettings. Born and bred on the Isle of Anglesey, they have a selection of stunning Beaumaris holiday cottages on offer, with a complimentary concierge service to boot. Whether you want them to craft the perfect itinerary or arrange a private boat tour around the entire island, they will work with the best local providers to make it happen.
