Beaumaris Castle

Beaumaris Castle is a medieval fortress on Anglesey in Wales, featuring two concentric limestone walls with twelve towers and two gatehouses forming a defensive system. A surrounding moat provides additional protection around the entire structure.

Construction began in 1295 under Edward I as part of a campaign to secure English control over Wales. The project faced interruptions and financial constraints that stretched the work across many decades before it was eventually abandoned.

The castle stands as a symbol of English dominance over Wales, designed with every detail serving military purpose and control. Walking through the fortification reveals how power was expressed through architectural design at every turn.

The site is easily walkable and provides accessible pathways through different sections of the fortification. Visitors should expect slippery surfaces on the walls, especially after rain or wet weather.

The walls contain hundreds of arrow loops positioned at different heights, allowing defenders to monitor attackers from multiple vantage points. This sophisticated defense system was ahead of its time.

Location: Beaumaris

Inception: 1295

Founders: Edward I of England

Architects: James of Saint George

Elevation above the sea: 5 m

Made from material: limestone

Part of: Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd, Beaumaris Conservation Area

Website: https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/places-to-visit/beaumaris-castle

GPS coordinates: 53.26491,-4.08957

Latest update: December 12, 2025 18:18