Tiny UK seaside town named a hidden gem with boutique shops and castle
This "buzzy" town in northern Wales has been dubbed a tiny treasure for its impressive coastal views, historically significant castle and beloved community shops
One tiny seaside town has been newly minted as a hidden gem for its 'winning combination' of scenic views and boutique shops. The town is situated in the Isle of Anglesey (Ynys Môn in Welsh): a small island that is a great setting to explore mainland Wales.
The travel company Breakfree Holidays has named Beaumaris in Anglesey one of the 10 best coastal towns in Northwest England and North Wales. According to Breakfree Holidays, the 'buzzy' town stands out for boasting a 'scenic location, a romantic castle and a burgeoning collection of enticing boutique shops, cafes and art galleries'.
The natural beauty of Beaumaris is evident in its name already - based on the Norman 'beau marais' which means 'beautiful marsh'. The description was chosen by Edward I and the town's architecture clearly outlines its medieval, Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian history.
The most noteworthy feature of the town - and of Anglesey altogether - is the Beaumaris Castle. Now a United Nations World Heritage Site, the castle was constructed between 1295 and 1330.
The impressive fortress has been called 'the greatest castle never built' as one of the last royal strongholds created by Edward I in Wales. It has four concentric rings of fortification making it of near-perfect symmetry, as well as a moat and its own dock.
Troubling times in Scotland meant the castle was never carried out to its exacting blueprint, but it is still considered an architectural feat of the region. The castle is open to visitors all summer long with entry prices starting at £10.50.
If you are planning a visit to the castle or Beaumaris is general, consider scheduling your trip around the Medieval Festival. In 2025, the festival will run from August 23 to August 25 and feature demonstrations and workshops about all-things medieval, including leather work, cooking and how to wear armour.
Once you've had your fill of medieval history, you can head to the fine sands of Beaumaris Beach to enjoy the coastal scenery of the town. Pastel-coloured houses line the shore and add a distinct charm to the serene setting.
Nearby are pubs and boutique shops to explore and the beach is also separated by the historic Beaumaris Pier. The pier is the port for boat trips to popular fishing patches and tours of the nearby Puffin Island.
Opened in 1846 and designed by Frederick Foster, the Beaumaris Pier was originally constructed of wooden piles and iron girders. It was rebuilt in 1872 after it was significantly damaged by a storm and further extended in 1895.
Travellers interested in diving deeper into the Welsh landscape can set out for the Welsh Coast Path that passes Beaumaris Beach. The Path offer exceptional views of mainland Wales and the Menai Strait, as well as the ancient monastic site of Penmon Priory.
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