Beaumaris Castle

We didn't intend to visit the Isle of Anglesey, not until we were lured to its charming shores by the promise of Beaumaris castle, the great unfinished masterpiece, reputed to be the most technically perfect castle in Britain.

Begun in 1295 as one of the iron ring of north Wales castles built by the English monarch Edward I in his grandiose attempt to stamp authority on the Welsh people, Beaumaris Castle was never finished. Money and supplies ran out before the fortifications reached their full height. Still, Castell Biwmares is an awesome sight with its perfectly symmetrical concentric 'walls within walls' design, which incorporates four successive lines of fortifications. It is also a beautiful sight, its stronghold located at the end of Castle street and thus linked with the town of Beaumaris, and its 'gate next-the-sea' entrance boasting a tidal dock which allowed supply ships to sail right up to the castle.

As you can see from the photo at left, Beaumaris is partially surrounded by a water-filled moat. It also affords stunning views over mountains and the sea.

Date of Our Last Visit: June 2004