Published

More than 200 of Wales’ historic sites, landmarks and hidden gems will offer visitors free entry this September — as the Open Doors festival returns for 2022.

Funded and organised by Cadw, the ever-popular festival of Wales’ built heritage will encourage Welsh residents and visitors alike to explore some of the country’s lesser-known sites ― several of which are usually closed to the public.

The 2022 programme features a range of historic venues owned by Cadw, National Trust Wales, Church in Wales, local councils, private owners, including Neath Abbey, Oystermouth Castle, Caerleon Amphitheatre and Barracks, Bodnant Gardens, Denbigh Castle, and St Davids Cathedral.

6 staffed Cadw sites, including two of Wales’ iconic medieval fortresses ― Harlech Castle in north Wales and Laugharne Castle in south Wales ― will be offering members of the public free site access during the month-long heritage celebration.

Meanwhile, 11 of Cadw’s unstaffed sites, many of which are usually closed to the public, will also offer guided tours for free on select dates in September ― including Barclodiad-y-Gawres Burial Chamber on Anglesey.

Non-Cadw sites such as St Davids Cathedral are also offering tours of areas usually closed to the public – with visitors to the site of Wales’ patron saint welcomed into the Old Lapidarium, which hasn’t been open to the public for several years.

Ffion Reynolds, Arts & Heritage Manager for said:

“We warmly welcome the return of Open Doors ― Wales’ annual contribution to European Heritage Days ― running throughout September.

“Not only is it a celebration of the rich and fascinating history Wales has to offer, but an opportunity for more people than ever before to inspire a life-long love of history and culture ― especially our future generations.

“And by opening these sites for free, we hope to provide an equal opportunity for all to explore, enjoy and uncover the untold stories of Welsh history on their doorstep.”

Pre-booking for Cadw sites, whether staffed or unstaffed, is not necessary — walk-ins are encouraged to simply turn up to visit their favourite monument, and can even join the complimentary guided tours at select sites.

View the full list of Cadw and non-Cadw heritage sites taking part in Open Doors across Wales

For information on how to attend an Open Doors event not being hosted at a Cadw site, visitors should contact the relevant venue directly or visit their individual website for further information as ticket requirements vary per site.

The Cadw-specific offer for Open Doors 2022 will see a collection of unique tours and events arrive at 17 sites under its care during September.

Visitors are advised to check the date and details of each event before travelling.