Beaumaris Pier | Pier Biwmares

You'll spot it straight away when you arrive in Beaumaris - a proper Victorian pier that juts out into the Menai Strait like it owns the place. Built back in 1846, the thing's had quite the life: amusement arcade days, wartime duties, the lot. These days it's a straightforward seaside walk that takes about twenty minutes end to end, though you could easily kill longer just leaning on the railings watching the water.

The pier itself is free to access and there's usually an amusement arcade at the entrance if you've got restless kids in tow. The views across the strait toward Snowdonia are solid, especially on a clear day when you can actually see the mountains. On a grey Welsh afternoon it's more moody than spectacular, but that's half the charm of North Wales coastal walks. Couples will appreciate the quietness; families with young children might find it a bit thin on actual activities beyond "walk and look at sea".

If you're staying at one of the nearby caravan parks - Kingsbridge is closest at under two miles, or Wonderfully Wild if you want something a touch more relaxed - the pier makes for an easy evening stroll before tea. It works best as part of a wider Beaumaris afternoon rather than a destination in itself. The town's got proper cafes, the castle's worth an hour, and the promenade is pleasant enough. Save the pier for late afternoon light and you'll have a decent memory of it.