Beaumaris, Wales Guide
Welcome to Beaumaris, a captivating coastal town nestled on the Isle of Anglesey in North Wales! Steeped in history and brimming with charm, Beaumaris offers a delightful escape for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a relaxing seaside getaway. Dominated by its magnificent UNESCO World Heritage-listed castle, the town boasts a picturesque waterfront, colourful Georgian architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere that will instantly captivate you. Beyond the castle walls, Beaumaris offers a wealth of experiences. Explore the charming streets lined with independent shops, art galleries, and traditional pubs. Indulge in delicious local cuisine, take a scenic boat trip along the Menai Strait, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the stunning views of Snowdonia. Beaumaris is a true gem of North Wales, offering a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and Welsh hospitality.
Food & Cuisine
Beaumaris offers a delightful culinary experience, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, particularly seafood. Expect to find delicious dishes featuring Welsh lamb, locally caught fish, and Anglesey sea salt. Several restaurants and cafes line the waterfront and the main streets, offering everything from traditional pub fare to more refined dining experiences. For a taste of local produce, visit the Beaumaris Friday Market, where you can find fresh vegetables, cheeses, and other local delicacies. Popular restaurants include The Bulkeley Hotel, known for its elegant dining and stunning sea views, and The Liverpool Arms, a traditional pub serving hearty meals and local ales. Don't forget to try some Welsh Rarebit, a savoury cheese sauce served on toast, a true Welsh classic!
Nightlife
Beaumaris offers a relaxed and convivial nightlife scene, centred around its traditional pubs and bars. The town is not known for nightclubs or late-night venues, but rather for its cosy atmosphere and friendly locals. Many of the pubs offer live music on weekends, creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere. The waterfront pubs are particularly popular, offering stunning views of the Menai Strait as you enjoy a drink. The main streets, such as Castle Street and Church Street, are where you'll find the majority of the pubs and bars.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Beaumaris is during the spring and summer months (May to September). The weather is generally warmer and drier, making it ideal for exploring the town, enjoying outdoor activities, and taking boat trips. The summer months can be busier, especially during school holidays, but the vibrant atmosphere and longer daylight hours make it a worthwhile trade-off. Spring offers pleasant weather with fewer crowds, while September can be a great time to visit for a quieter experience with mild temperatures.
Transportation
Beaumaris is a relatively small town, making it easily walkable. Most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within easy reach of each other. For exploring further afield on Anglesey, buses are available, connecting Beaumaris to other towns and villages on the island. The main bus stop is located near the Green, a central area in the town. While there is no train station directly in Beaumaris, the nearest train station is in Bangor, which is connected to Beaumaris by bus services. Taxis are also available for local transportation.
Airport
The nearest airport to Beaumaris is Anglesey Airport (VLY), located approximately 22 miles away. However, Anglesey Airport primarily offers domestic flights. For international flights, the most convenient airport is Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LPL), which is approximately 80 miles away. From Liverpool Airport, you can hire a car, take a taxi, or take a train to Bangor and then a bus to Beaumaris. Manchester Airport (MAN) is another option, located approximately 95 miles away, offering a wider range of international flights. Similar transportation options are available from Manchester Airport.
Attractions
Plas Newydd House and Garden
A short drive from Beaumaris, Plas Newydd House and Garden is a National Trust property with a fascinating history. Explore the elegant house, wander through the beautiful gardens, and enjoy the stunning views of the Menai Strait and Snowdonia mountains. A great day out for history buffs and nature lovers.
Old Courthouse Beaumaris
The Old Courthouse in Beaumaris offers a glimpse into the history of law and order in the region. Explore the courtroom and learn about the trials and tribulations that took place within its walls. Discover the stories of the accused and the judges who presided over them. A fascinating attraction for those interested in legal history.
David Hughes Community Garden
Escape the hustle and bustle at David Hughes Community Garden, a tranquil oasis in the heart of Beaumaris. Wander through the flowerbeds, relax on a bench, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. A lovely spot for a quiet moment and a chance to appreciate the beauty of nature. Perfect for families and those seeking a relaxing break.
Beaumaris Gaol
Step back in time at Beaumaris Gaol, a Victorian-era prison offering a chilling glimpse into 19th-century penal life. Explore the cells, solitary confinement areas, and the execution room. Learn about the harsh conditions and the stories of the prisoners who were incarcerated here. A fascinating and sobering experience for those interested in social history.
Beaumaris Pier
Stroll along Beaumaris Pier, enjoying panoramic views of the Menai Strait and Snowdonia mountains. Take in the fresh sea air, try your hand at crabbing, or simply relax and watch the boats go by. A perfect spot for a leisurely walk and enjoying the coastal scenery. Don't forget to grab an ice cream from one of the nearby shops!
Penmon Priory
A short drive from Beaumaris, Penmon Priory is an ancient monastic site with a fascinating history. Explore the ruins of the priory, admire the impressive dovecote, and visit St. Seiriol's Well. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the stunning coastal views. A great day trip for history lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Beaumaris Castle
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Beaumaris Castle is the unfinished masterpiece of Edward I. Explore its concentric design, moats, and imposing towers. Wander through the grounds and imagine the medieval life within its walls. A must-see for history buffs and castle enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the Menai Strait and a glimpse into Wales's turbulent past.
Menai Bridge
A short drive from Beaumaris, the Menai Bridge is an iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Menai Strait. Walk across the bridge, admire the engineering marvel, and take in the breathtaking scenery. A must-see landmark for visitors to the area. Combine with a visit to the nearby town of Menai Bridge.
Puffin Island Boat Trip
Embark on a boat trip to Puffin Island, a haven for seabirds, including puffins (seasonal). Enjoy the scenic boat ride, spot various bird species, and learn about the island's ecology. A fantastic experience for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Book in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment.
St Mary's and St Nicholas Church
Visit St Mary's and St Nicholas Church, a beautiful medieval church with a rich history. Admire the architecture, stained glass windows, and historical artifacts. Take a moment for quiet reflection and appreciate the spiritual atmosphere. A peaceful and historically significant landmark in Beaumaris.
Day Trips
Escape to the whimsical village of Portmeirion, an Italianate fantasy village designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis. Explore the colorful buildings, wander through the gardens, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this architectural gem.
Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by car Known as the "Gateway to Snowdonia," Betws-y-Coed is a charming village surrounded by forests and waterfalls. Explore the Swallow Falls, wander through the Gwydir Forest, and visit the Pont-y-Pair bridge. Enjoy the outdoor activities and the picturesque scenery.
Approximately 45 minutes by car Experience the adventure capital of Wales in Blaenau Ffestiniog. Home to Zip World, where you can ride the world's fastest zip line, and Bounce Below, where you can bounce on trampolines in a former slate mine. Explore the industrial heritage of the town and the surrounding landscape.
Approximately 1 hour by car Experience the classic Victorian seaside resort of Llandudno. Take a ride on the Great Orme Tramway for stunning panoramic views, stroll along the pier, and relax on the sandy beach. Explore the Alice in Wonderland trails and attractions, inspired by Lewis Carroll's connection to the town.
Approximately 30 minutes by car Step back in time in the walled town of Conwy, dominated by the imposing Conwy Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the well-preserved medieval walls, wander through the charming streets, and visit the smallest house in Great Britain. Enjoy the picturesque harbor and the views across the Conwy Estuary.
Approximately 15 minutes by car Discover the historic town of Caernarfon, dominated by the magnificent Caernarfon Castle, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the castle's imposing towers and walls, learn about its history, and wander through the charming streets of the town.
Approximately 30 minutes by car Step into the Roman and medieval history of Chester, a city famous for its unique Rows (covered walkways with shops). Walk along the well-preserved Roman walls, visit Chester Cathedral, and explore the Chester Zoo, one of the best in the UK.
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Snowdonia National Park. Hike to the summit of Mount Snowdon (either on foot or via the Snowdon Mountain Railway), explore the numerous walking trails, and discover the stunning lakes and waterfalls. Visit the charming villages nestled within the park.
Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour by car (depending on the specific location within the park) Discover the historic market town of Ruthin, home to Ruthin Castle, a medieval fortress with a fascinating history. Explore the castle ruins, wander through the charming streets, and visit the Ruthin Gaol, a Victorian prison museum.
Approximately 1 hour by car Portmeirion
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Betws-y-Coed
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Blaenau Ffestiniog
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Llandudno
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Conwy
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Caernarfon
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Chester
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Snowdonia National Park
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Ruthin
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