Families across Wales can look forward to a summer packed with adventure, as Cadw unveils a vibrant programme of family-friendly events set in castles, abbeys, and ancient landmarks across the country.
Throughout July and August, visitors of all ages are invited to take part in a rich array of immersive historical experiences, interactive workshops, and hands-on activities – all designed to vividly bring Welsh history to life.
In addition to Cadw’s summer events, Wales’ largest castle, Caerphilly Castle, reopened to the public on Saturday 19 July, following two years of extensive conservation and refurbishment. Visitors can look forward to exploring newly enhanced areas, including the Great Hall, Watergate, Wildflower Garden, and the Inner East Gatehouse.
Gwilym Hughes, Head of Cadw, said:
“Our summer events are all about making history fun and engaging for families. From meeting medieval characters and witnessing dramatic falconry displays to discovering the secrets of ancient ruins and enjoying fairytale picnics, there’s something to capture every imagination. Plus, with free entry for children under adult memberships, it’s a fantastic way to experience Wales’ heritage together.”
With over 60 events scheduled over the school holidays, some of the standout moments from this summer’s programme include:
A Blast from the Past! Family Fun Weekend (Blaenafon Ironworks)
Sat 26 Jul 2025 & Sun 27 Jul 2025, 10:30 – 16:30
Step back in time for a weekend of family fun at Blaenafon Ironworks.
Enjoy traditional entertainment for all the family, including Punch and Judy shows, juggling and other activities from a bygone era.
Raglan Castle Odyssey (Raglan Castle)
Sun 24 & Mon 25 Aug, 11:00 – 16:30
Embark on a medieval adventure at Raglan Castle. Explore the castle’s rich history through live demonstrations, and immersive experiences perfect for curious minds.
The Greatest Knight (Tintern Abbey)
Sat 23 Aug to Mon 25 Aug, 10:30 – 17:00
Meet the legendary knight and uncover the chivalric world of medieval Wales. With thrilling displays, knightly tales, and family-friendly activities, Tintern Abbey will become a stage for heroic history.
The ‘Let’s Discover…’ Series (Chepstow Castle)
Various dates
Tie in a day out to Chepstow Castle during one of the themed ‘discovery’ days to explore the wonders of the past, including chainmail, medieval weapons and warfare, printed word, herbs & heritage, and willow. Each day offers a new hands-on journey into their historic uses.
Additional events across south Wales include:
- Whose Shrine is it anyway? (Caerleon Roman Baths), Every day between 19 Jul & Sun 31 Aug, 10:00 – 16:00
- World War 1 (Blaenafon Ironworks), Sat 9 & Sun 10 Aug, 11:00 – 16:00
Chepstow Castle:
- Chepstow Under Siege 1646, Sat 2 & Sun 3 Aug,10:00 – 16:00
- Steps Back in Time, Sat 26 & Sun 27 Jul, 10:00 – 16:00
- Make & Take, Every Wednesday between 23 Jul & 27 Aug, 10:00 – 16:00
- Did the Marshal do it?, Every day between 19 Jul & Sun 31 Aug, 10:00 – 16:00
Tintern Abbey:
- Brother Thomas the Cellarer, Sat 19 Jul & Sat 2 Aug, 10:30 – 16:30
- Resting at the Abbey during the Wars of the Roses 1471, Sat 30 & Sun 31 Aug, 10:30 – 16:00
Cadw is soaring to new heights with a busy programme of falconry events across Wales this summer too. Visitors will have the chance to witness majestic birds of prey in flight and learn about the ancient art of falconry; all set against the backdrop of some of Wales’s most iconic landmarks. Events will take place on selected dates throughout the season at multiple locations, including: Tintern Abbey, Raglan Castle and Chepstow Castle.
For those looking to make the most of the summer holidays, a Cadw membership offers free entry to all events and unlimited access to 132 historic places across Wales. Children go free with adult memberships, making it a great value option for families.
Find out more and book tickets at: https://cadw.gov.wales