Beaumaris Castle stands in the town of Beaumaris on the Isle of Anglesey, North Wales. King Edward I began it in 1295 as part of the chain of fortresses he built to secure his rule after the 1282 conquest of Wales, and it was meant to be the most important of them. Building stopped before the castle was finished, but its symmetrical rings of walls, its moat and its towers still show how carefully it was planned. Walk the walls for wide views over the Menai Strait, and allow time for both the lower and upper levels.
Why Edward I built it
Edward I built Beaumaris Castle after his conquest of Wales in 1282. It formed part of the Iron Ring, a group of fortresses meant to secure English rule, which also included Conwy, Caernarfon and Harlech. Beaumaris was planned as the most important of them.
Work began in 1295 under James of St George, the master architect who also worked on the other castles of the ring. Money and labour ran short, and building slowed until it stopped in the 14th century, with several sections left unfinished. Funds were also diverted to a campaign in Scotland, so the castle never reached its full planned size.
Design and the marsh setting
The name comes from the Norman-French beau mareys, meaning beautiful marsh, which describes the low ground the castle was built on. The plan is concentric, with walls within walls, four layers of defence and a moat around the outer wall.
The moat connected to the Menai Straits, so ships could have reached a dock at the castle from the water. The entrances are set out of line between the inner and outer walls. The outer gatehouse is on the southern side, and visitors cross the moat by a small bridge to reach it.
Walking the castle
Allow time for both the lower and upper levels. You can climb to the battlements and walk along the top of the outer walls, looking out over the water toward the mainland.
Inside, the steps are uneven, and taller visitors should watch their heads in some passages. Spiral staircases lead up to the towers. A short introductory video explains the history before you begin your visit.
Visiting with children and dogs
Children can follow a Castle Quest to look for masons' marks and small interactive features hidden around the grounds. Some activities let children dress in period costume. Picnic tables and grassy areas give families a place to rest between visits.
Dogs can explore the grounds, but they must stay at ground level. They cannot go up the spiral staircases or into the towers. The gift shop sells treats for dogs.
Events, the town and getting there
The castle hosts activities and events, with the most during the peak summer season. The town around it has a Victorian pier, a Tudor townhouse and a former gaol. Boat trips to Puffin Island leave from the area, and the seal colony there is a short trip away.
Parking is available in a paid car park, and there is also free and paid street parking nearby. The entrance, the parking area and the seating are wheelchair accessible.
FAQ
Where is Beaumaris Castle?
It is on Castle Street in Beaumaris, on the Isle of Anglesey in North Wales, postcode LL58 8AP.
Is there an entry fee?
Entry to the site is listed at £10. Check the official Cadw page for current prices before you travel.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Getting tickets in advance is recommended.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes. Dogs can explore the grounds, but they must stay at ground level, so they cannot go up the spiral staircases or into the towers.
Is the castle wheelchair accessible?
The entrance, the parking area and the seating are wheelchair accessible.
