Families across Wales are in for a treat this May half term as Cadw launches a jam-packed programme of fun, family-friendly events at castles, abbeys, and ancient monuments across the country.
From Saturday 25 May to Sunday 2 June, visitors can step back in time with a range of immersive historical experiences, interactive workshops, and hands-on activities designed to spark imaginations and bring Welsh history to life.
Gwilym Hughes, Head of Cadw, said:
“Our lively schedule of events across May half term will hopefully inspire pride in Welsh heritage, spark curiosity and offer fun for all ages. It’s an opportunity for families to get out and learn about the rich history that makes Wales so unique. Children go free with any adult membership offering great value to keep the whole family entertained over the holidays and throughout the year.”
With over 20 events across the school holidays, highlights from the half term line up include:
Saturday 24th May – Sunday 1st June, 9.30am-4.30pm
Visitors can explore the historic grounds of Chepstow Castle and search for clues in this family-friendly bingo challenge. Full of fascinating facts and suitable for all ages.
William Marshal’s Visit to Tintern Abbey
Saturday 24th May – Monday 26th May, 10.30am-4pm
Step back in time and meet William Marshal, one of the greatest knights of medieval Wales and the patron and benefactor of Tintern Abbey. Hear his story and explore his legacy at this gothic abbey and enjoy an interactive introduction to medieval life as you get a glimpse at what a typical itinerant household would have been like – complete with an array of medieval crafts and characters.
Family Crafts Day (Caer-went Roman Town)
Thursday 29th May, 10am – 12pm, 1pm – 3pm
Get creative at Caer-went Roman Town for hands-on craft activities inspired by the location’s rich history. Once a Romanised market town, Caer-went evidences how Wales was once such an important site for that empire. Booking required.
Medieval Murder Mystery (Raglan Castle)
Sunday 25th – Monday 26th May, 11am-3.30pm
Uncover secrets and solve a chilling crime in this immersive Medieval Murder Mystery at one of Wales’ mightiest castles. Step into the shoes of a detective as you question characters, gather clues, and piece together the truth.
Other events across Cadw’s historic locations include:
- Juggling Jim’s Jester School (Chepstow Castle)
- Arming the Knight (Chepstow Castle)
- Floralia Trail (Caerleon Roman Baths)
- An Introduction to Celtic and Roman herbs (Caer-went Roman Town)
- Falconry Day (Raglan Castle)
- Brother Thomas the Cellarer (Tintern Abbey)
For those looking to take advantage of the events available during May half term, a Cadw membership offers free event entry and unlimited access to 132 historic places across Wales, offering a unique way to explore Wales’ rich heritage. Children also go free with any adult membership.
A selection of Cadw’s most fascinating historic places – including Valle Crucis Abbey, Castell Cilgerran and Bryn Celli Ddu burial chamber – will also be open for guided tours throughout the summer. Find out more here: https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/whats-on/guided-tours-cadw
Find out more at https://cadw.gov.wales/