Beaumaris Castle on Anglesey is often described as one of the finest medieval castles in Britain — and yet it was never completed.
Built from 1295 for King Edward I, Beaumaris was intended to be the final great stronghold in his chain of castles across North Wales. Designed with near-perfect symmetry, a water-filled moat, gatehouses, arrow loops and concentric layers of defence, it was planned as a masterpiece of medieval military architecture.
In this video, we explore the story of Beaumaris Castle from the air and on the ground — from its dramatic defensive design to the displacement of nearby Llanfaes, the role of James of St George, the revolt of Owain Glyndŵr, and the castle’s later use during the English Civil War.
With drone footage, ground shots, and historical reconstructions, this is the story of a castle that was built to control Anglesey — but left unfinished, still showing the full scale of Edward’s ambition.
Beaumaris Castle is cared for by Cadw and forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site: Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd.
I have added a Parking point next to the Library and public toilet, which is along the same road as the entrance to the castle. It is free for 2 hours if I recall.
Location: Beaumaris, North Wales
UNESCO World Heritage Site