Discover Wales’ past this summer with Cadw’s family events
Families across Wales can look forward to a summer packed with adventure, as Cadw unveils its exciting programme of family-friendly events set within the nation’s most iconic castles, abbeys and ancient landmarks.
Taking place throughout the school holidays, the events programme invites visitors to step into the past through immersive experiences, interactive workshops and hands-on activities designed to bring Welsh history to life for all ages.
Dr Kate Roberts, Chief Executive of Cadw, said:
“Summer is the perfect time for families to step outside and explore Wales’ incredible heritage, and our events programme makes those visits even more memorable.
“Whether it’s stepping into the shoes of medieval characters, discovering ancient traditions or simply spending time together in remarkable settings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, with free child entry for adult members, it’s a fantastic way to make lasting memories over the school holidays.”
With over 70 Cadw events scheduled across Wales in July and August, highlights from this summer’s programme include:
South Wales
Go Wild (Caerphilly Castle)
Sat 29th to Mon 31st August, 11:00-15:00
Visit Wales’ largest castle, Caerphilly Castle, for a weekend of nature-themed adventure. Take part in a quest through the grounds and enjoy hands-on craft activities inspired by the natural world.
A Victorian Excavation (Castell Coch)
Wednesday 29th July & Thurs 30th July, 11:00-15:00.
Explore the history beneath Castell Coch in this hands-on archaeological experience. Inspired by Victorian-era excavations, visitors can uncover medieval artefacts, learn how to record their findings, and explore the techniques still used by archaeologists today.
Musica Peregrina: Pilgrimage Music in Medieval Europe (Chepstow Castle)
Saturday 25th July 2026, 10:00-16:00.
Discover the sounds of medieval Europe at Chepstow Castle with Musica Peregrina. Enjoy live performances on traditional instruments such as the hurdy-gurdy, harp and percussion, and learn more about the music and traditions of the medieval world.
Raglan Castle Odyssey (Raglan Castle)
Sunday 30th & Monday 31st August, 11:00-16:30
Enjoy a journey across the ages at Raglan Castle with the Worcester Reenactors. This multi-period living history weekend invites visitors to explore historic encampments, meet costumed characters, and discover what life was like for both soldiers and civilians throughout history.
North Wales
Medieval Festival (Beaumaris Castle)
Saturday 29th to Monday 31st August, 10:00-17:00
Step into medieval Wales at Beaumaris Castle this August bank holiday weekend as the site is transformed with knights, lords and ladies, musicians and jesters. Families can explore a bustling encampment, watch combat demonstrations and enjoy a lively programme of hands-on activities and entertainment.
Castle Garrison and Red Dragon Archers (Castell Caernarfon)
Multiple weekends across July and August,10:00-16:00
See history in action at Castell Caernarfon with the Castle Garrison and Red Dragon Archers. Visitors can enjoy a range of changing activities each weekend, including archery demonstrations and interactive displays that bring the castle to life. Check the website for dates.
Conwy Medieval Magic (Conwy Castle)
Every Wednesday between 22nd July and 19th August, 10:00-16:00
Enjoy magical family entertainment at Castell Conwy this summer, with live performances and traditional storytelling inspired by Welsh myths. Alongside the shows, visitors can take part in craft activities and a range of interactive workshops.
Fairy Tale Picnic (Denbigh Castle)
Saturday 25th July 2026, 10:00-16:00
Take part in the annual picnic at Denbigh Castle, where families are invited to dress up, bring some treats and settle in for an afternoon of storytelling, alongside creative activities including face painting.
West Wales
Historic Echoes (Laugharne Castle)
Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd August, 11:00-16:00
Step into the early 15th century at Laugharne Castle to discover how castles were attacked and defended, handle replica weapons and armour, and learn about medieval medicine through a series of expert demonstrations.
Hysterical History (Kidwelly Castle)
Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd August, 11:00-16:00
Take part in an interactive experience at Kidwelly Castle, where visitors can explore the skills, training and traditions of medieval knighthood through engaging, hands-on activities with Sir Roland De Preaux.
Children's Activity Day (Strata Florida Abbey)
Thursday 13th August, 10:00-12:00. Online pre-booking is essential.
Spend the day at Strata Florida Abbey, where young historians can explore the medieval abbey’s past through hands-on archaeology experiences and learn about the lives of the Cistercian monks and the surrounding landscape.
Mid Wales
Tretower’s Summer Trail (Tretower Court and Castle)
Every day between Saturday 18th July and Monday 31st August, 10:00-16:30
Explore a trail of medieval games at Tretower Court and Castle this summer, where visitors can test their skills through a series of fun, family-friendly challenges set within the historic grounds.
Wednesday Crafting Fun Tretower Court and Castle)
Every Wednesday throughout August, 10:30 & 13:30 time slots
Summer Wednesdays bring a series of hands-on craft workshops, where young visitors can create their own medieval-inspired items, including shields, swords and decorative keepsakes.
In addition to these events, Cadw is offering a series of guided tours throughout the summer to give visitors a chance to delve deeper into the details of each location. These include: Castell Oxwich, Bryn Celli Ddu, Llangar Old Parish Church, Segontium Roman Fort, Rug Chapel, Cae’r Gors, Castell Cilgerran, Barclodiad y Gawres, Castell Cricieth and Hafoty Medieval House. Pre-booking via the Cadw website for these events is required.
For those looking to make the most of their visits this summer and beyond, a Cadw membership offers free entry to all events and unlimited access to over 130 historic places across Wales. Children go free with adult memberships, making it a great value option for families. As a bonus, members receive a Cadw handbook, free audio guides at selected sites and two Heritage in Wales Magazines each year.