Beaumaris – A Potted History

The ancient borough and now the modern town of Beaumaris owe its existence to an English monarch, Edward 1, and his 13th century castle. Built on previously unoccupied land, the garrison town’s sole purpose was to supply the needs of the castle’s military force in a seemingly hostile country. Beaumaris’s original English citizens supplied one of the strongest garrisons in Europe yet the colony was unprotected from attack until a wall was built around it in 1410.

In time the garrison town became Anglesey’s county town and Welshmen, although at first unwelcome in the borough, soon became settled here. The main law courts were here. From the mid 16th century national elections were held here. Important county social events such as those associated with the Anglesey Hunt were centred here. All these activities attracted Anglesey’s gentry to Beaumaris and they required a convivial meeting place for their gatherings. From the very early 18th century that meeting place was The Bull.

BEAUMARIS - The town's story
A fascinating book edited by Robert Williams

The south east coast of the island of Anglesey was once a powerful centre of Welsh culture and rule. Invaders from England decided to build an impregnable fortress in this Welsh heartland. On a 'beautiful marsh',
Beau Mareys, a castle rose next to the sea.

Today, seven centuries later, the little town of Beaumaris is one of the most interesting in Britain. An eventful history and a spectacular setting bring visitors from all over the world to the World Heritage site. Copies of the book are available from The Bull. Price: £10 each (postage is free within the British Isles)