Discover Wales This Summer With Cadw Events And Activities
Searching for a standout holiday destination this summer? Somewhere to bring the kids and make memories that last a lifetime? You can’t go wrong with Wales. It’s home to some of the UK’s best family-friendly activities, festivals and sports fixtures!
The cherry on top? Cadw has just announced its awesome summer line-up. Throughout the school holidays, you’ll find bucket loads of fantastic events spanning over 130 cultural venues.
Curious? Keep reading as we share everything you need to know.
Cadw: bringing you the best of Welsh history
Before diving into the highlights, what is Cadw? Basically, it’s an organisation that protects and promotes some of the country’s most magical historical and cultural sites. The team manages over 130 internationally important locations, including famous abbeys, castles and monuments.
Above all else, Cadw is committed to inspiring future generations through storytelling and play. Children can learn about the prehistoric period by visiting Neolithic villages and ruins. Or map the Roman conquest through interactive workshops. Whatever the interest, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
What’s on this summer?
Alongside the usual schedule, Cadw organises fun-filled activities every summer. These events take place during the school holidays, so your little ones don’t have to worry about missing out. Here’s what they can look forward to this time around.
Relic photo spheres
The relic photo spheres project combines a passion for photography with outstanding natural beauty. Guests can tackle various trails across Cadw locations, enjoying site-specific art installations along the way.
Do you need to book? No. Simply pay the admission fees (which are free for Cadw members).
Locations and dates:
- Raglan Castle: 27th – 28th July
- Tintern Abbey: 29th – 30th July
- Blaenavon Ironworks: 31st July – 1st August
- Porthgain Quarry and Harbour: 7th August
- Pentre Ifan Burial Chamber: 8th August
- Castell y Bere: 10th – 11th August
- Valle Crucis Abbey: 19th – 20th August
- Caernarfon Castle: 21st – 22nd August
- Din Lligwy Hut Group: 23rd – 24th August
Children’s archaeology taster day
Mini explorers will love the children’s archaeology taster day at Rhuddlan Castle. An engaging storyteller will delight the kids with medieval tales, workshops and activities. Afterwards, they’ll dig up countless treasures in the sandpit. Prepare to get messy!
Do you need to book? You don’t need to book tickets for this event. Simply pay the admission fee (which is free for Cadw members).
Location, date and time:
- Rhuddlan Castle: Friday 28th July, between 11am and 3pm
Castle scavenger hunt
Castell Coch is the perfect place for a scavenger hunt. The trail loops around the estate, showcasing ancient beech woodlands and lavish interiors. As you ramble through the winding gardens and corridors, keep your eyes peeled for exciting discoveries. Who knows what you might find?
Do you need to book? All events at Castell Coch are limited due to space, so you must book general admission tickets advance.
Location, dates and times:
- Castell Coch: Saturday 26th – Monday 28th August, between 11am and 3pm
Birds of prey experience
Cadw hasn’t forgotten about animal lovers. This summer, get up close and personal with magnificent birds of prey at Laugharne Castle. The falconry event explores habitat conservation, dietary habits and unique behaviours. On top of this, enjoy aerial acrobatics as several species take to the skies in spectacular flying displays!
Do you need to book? You don’t need to book tickets for this event. Simply pay the admission fee (which is free for Cadw members).
Location, dates and times:
- Laugharne Castle: Sunday 27th – Monday 28th August, between 11am and 4pm
Medieval festival
The medieval festival at Anglesey’s Beaumaris Castle is a bank holiday biggie. What can you expect? Visit the encampment to learn all about weapon making. You might even catch a glimpse of the castle executioner sharpening his axe on the grind. Elsewhere, you can sit back, relax and enjoy a drink while watching the knights train in the fight arena.
Do you need to book? You don’t need to book tickets for this event. Simply pay the admission fee (which is free for Cadw members).
Location, dates and times:
- Beaumaris Castle: Saturday 26th – Monday 28th August, between 10am and 5pm
Juggling Jim
Juggling Jim and his fantastic circus workshops are coming to Kidwelly Castle. After a few hours of expert tuition from the man himself, you’ll walk away with impressive new skills, such as diabolo, plate spinning and more.
Do you need to book? You don’t need to book tickets for this event. Simply pay the admission fee (which is free for Cadw members).
Location, dates and times:
- Kidwelly Castle: Tuesday 1st – Wednesday 2nd August, between 11am and 4pm
Tretower’s summer quest
The summer quest at Tretower Court and Castle is one of the longest-running activities on the roster. Once inside the monumental fortress, locate all the hidden treasures before Walter the Wrecker of Dunraven Castle arrives. You’ll have to dash around the castle and grounds to beat the clock!
Do you need to book? You don’t need to book tickets for this event. Simply pay the admission fee (which is free for Cadw members).
Location, dates and times:
- Tretower Court and Castle: Saturday 22nd July – Sunday 3rd September, between 10am and 5pm
Knight school
Does your little one have what it takes to protect one of the country’s mightiest coastal fortresses? If so, Harlech Castle is on the lookout for recruits. Sign your kids up for knight school this summer and watch them develop their imagination.
Do you need to book? You don’t need to book tickets for this event. However, workshops operate on a first-come, first-served basis. We suggest arriving early to avoid disappointment.
Location, dates and times:
- Harlech Castle: Every Tuesday during the holidays, between 11am and 4pm
Jester school
Swap knight school for jester school and encourage your kids to develop their fine motor skills. Chepstow Castle is hosting this unique event, which teaches guests plate spinning, juggling, tightrope walking and more.
Do you need to book? You don’t need to book tickets for this event. Simply pay the admission fee (which is free for Cadw members).
Location, dates and times:
- Chepstow Castle: Saturday 22nd – Sunday 23rd July, between 10am and 4pm
Virtual visits
If you can’t travel to Cadw sites this year, how about an immersive tour using the latest 3D technology? The Cadw website features five fantastic virtual experiences at Tinkinswood Burial Chamber, Strata Florida Abbey, Chepstow Castle, Tretower Court and Castle and Kidwelly Castle. It’s an accessible way to learn all about the country’s ancient relics, historic homes and fascinating folklore.
Book your Welsh summer holiday today
Now you’ve planned your events schedule, it’s time to book your accommodation. Browse our comprehensive travel directory for some of the region’s best hotels, B&Bs, campsites and more. Plus, our website has plenty of advice and guides to help you plan your dream holiday.
