Seaside towns are a quintessential part of the UK, and there’s no shortage of them across the country. From those boasting unspoilt stretches of golden shores, to towns complete with Victoria-era piers and funfairs that can often feel like a trip back in time, there’s no doubt some are more popular than others. 

These towns can also get pretty busy during the warmer months as Brits look to cool off by the sea, making for a less peaceful experience than you might have hoped for. Heading to less well-known spots and getting away from the crowds and overpriced tourist traps can be a much-welcomed break instead, and one of the UK’s seaside towns has officially been named one of Europe’s best kept secrets. 

HomeToGo has released a list of underrated European towns, cities and villages often overlooked by travellers that are worth visiting, and Beaumaris in Wales made it in the top 10. 

The European Hidden Gem Index ranked 50 of what they described as “Europe’s best-kept secrets”, scoring destinations based on a number of factors including the weather, affordability of accommodation, food options and scenery. 

Located on the Isle of Anglesey, which The Telegraph recently named Britain’s best island, the Welsh seaside town was awarded 9.48 out of 10 for its scenery alone. 

Boasting an eclectic mix of medieval, Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian architecture, HomeToGo said this seaside town is an ideal destination “for the explorer who’s enchanted by rugged shorelines, medieval castles, and boat trips to wild islands.” 

Home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Beaumaris Castle was constructed between 1295 and 1330, and despite being unfinished, it’s often described as a masterpiece and one of the finest Edwardian castles in Wales.

Also known as the greatest castle never built, it was the last and largest of the castles to be built by King Edward I in Wales, and it’s frequently praised for its near-perfect symmetry. 

But it’s not all castles, the pretty seaside town is located on the shores of the Menai Strait that separates Anglesey from mainland North Wales. 

Boat tours operated by Sea Coast Safaris allow visitors to take in Beaumaris from the water, passing by Victorian piers, the town’s very own Millionaires Row and The Swellies, known as the most treacherous section of the Menai Strait.

Puffin Island can also be reached from Beaumaris. Known as Ynys Seiriol in Welsh, the island is a protected sanctuary and nesting site for a number of seabirds, and home to Atlantic grey seals. 

A sand and shingle shoreline, if you prefer to stay on dry land, Beaumaris Beach offers views over the Menai Strait and Snowdonia. 

Beaumaris is a two hour drive from Manchester and Liverpool for those planning to drive. The closest train station to the town is Bangor and bus services can be taken by visitors from here directly to Menai Bridge.

Europe’s top 10 hidden gems

1. Tomar, Portugal
2. Brisighella, Italy
3. Nafplio, Greece
4. Puy-l’Évêque, France
5. Bremm, Germany
6. Beynac-et-Cazenac, France
7. Valdoviño, Spain
8. Sibiu, Romania
9. Labeaume, France
10. Beaumaris, Wales