The hidden gem seaside town nestled in the UK with the ‘greatest' castle and puffins
IT'S A SECRET The hidden gem seaside town nestled in the UK with the 'greatest' castle and puffins
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IF you're contemplating a UK break over the summer holidays, there's a town that you may not have heard of which is perfect - and it's one of Europe's top 50 hidden gems.
Beaumaris in Wales took the tenth spot on an expert list of discovered destinations in Europe, thanks to its long pier, pretty beach and there's even a nearby island which is home to colonies of puffins.
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Beaumaris is one of Europe's hidden gems, taking tenth spot on a new list
Credit: Alamy
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A neighbouring island has scores of puffins to watch, perfect for nature enthusiasts
Credit: Getty
According to holiday rental site Home to Go, Beaumaris is the tenth best hidden gem in the whole of Europe.
The town is said to be ideal for "the explorer who's enchanted by rugged shorelines, medieval castles, and boat trips to wild islands".
Beaumaris is a seaside town on the Isle of Anglesey, packed with charming pubs, cafes and beaches.
Those looking for a more cultural break are also in luck, as it has a stunning castle dating back to the 13th century.
It's known as the greatest ever built because it was the last of the royal strongholds created by Edward I in Wales – and perhaps his masterpiece.
The castle is surrounded by a moat and has spellbinding views over Snowdonia, and tickets to look around it and the grounds are just £10.50 per adult.
Beaumaris has a beach for those keen to get some steps in, but its not advisable for swimmers as it's near the Menai Straits - known for strong tidal currents.
One visitor raved about the town on Tripadvisor: "Just beautiful! Love this place and would definitely recommend a visit for a relaxed atmosphere with stunning views."
The up-and-coming English seaside town with cheap booze and huge beaches
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Beaumaris has one of the 'greatest' castles
Credit: Alamy
Another added: "This small beach with backdrop of pastel painted houses has some absolutely stunning views of the mountains."
Near the beach is Beaumaris Pier, which originally opened in 1846 and rebuilt in 1872.
These days it's a popular spot for crabbing and has a small kiosk near the entrance where you can nab an ice-cream or hot drink, plus souvenirs and beach toys.
From Beaumaris you can easily get to Puffin Island, an uninhabited area off the eastern tip of Anglesey, on one of the regular boat trips or cruises.
It's a wildlife hub for Atlantic grey seals as well as puffins - and if you're lucky you might also get a glimpse of porpoises and dolphins in the surrounding waters.
Although most definitely a hidden gem, Beaumaris also has the backing of Which? - which put it high on a list of the best seaside towns in the UK last year.
The Welsh town came in 25th place with a reader vote of 74 per cent.
Plus, the seaside destination with famous Hollywood locals that was named one of the best places to live in the UK.
And the Welsh seaside town named one of the cheapest places for a UK beach break – with hotels under £20 a night.
Europe's Top 10 Best Hidden Gems Tomar, Portugal Brisighella, Italy Nafplio, Greece Puy-l'Évêque, France Bremm, Germany Beynac-et-Cazenac, France Valdoviño, Spain Sibiu, Romania Labeaume, France Beaumaris, Wales, UK
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