Step into Welsh history this May half term with Cadw
Families across Wales can look forward to an action‑packed May half term, as Cadw unveils a jam-packed programme of events at castles, abbeys and historic monuments across the nation.
Running from Saturday 23 to Sunday 31 May, the wide range of events invite visitors to step into Wales’ past through immersive experiences, interactive workshops and hands‑on activities designed to spark curiosity and bring Welsh history to life.
With activities ranging from knight school and jester workshops, to adventure trails and bubble animals there is something for all ages to enjoy this May half-term.
Chief Executive of Cadw, Kate Roberts, said:
“May half term is the perfect chance for families to get out and explore the incredible history on their doorstep in Wales. This year’s programme has been designed to be hands-on, engaging and genuinely fun, giving visitors of all ages the chance to connect our nation’s past and spend quality time together outdoors.
“With children going free with any adult membership, it’s a great-value option for families planning a few days out over the holidays. Cadw members enjoy unlimited access to over 130 historic locations across Wales, alongside a range of exclusive benefits, making it easier than ever to discover something new.”
With over 20 events across the school holidays, highlights from the half term line up include:
South Wales
Saturday 23 May – Sunday 31 May, 10am - 4pm
Visitors to the historic grounds of Chepstow Castle can search for clues in this family-friendly bingo challenge. Full of fascinating facts and suitable for all ages.
Jewels of the Legion Children’s Trail (Caerleon Roman Baths)
Saturday 23 May – Sunday 31 May, 10am –4pm
Follow the children’s trail to uncover how Romans used jewels as a symbol of style and status, then discover the remarkable story behind the 88 gemstones uncovered by archaeologists in ancient bathhouse drains after slipping from their owners centuries ago.
Medieval Murder Mystery (Raglan Castle)
Sunday 24 – Monday 25 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 gather clues, and piece together the truth – with prizes for the people who solve the mystery.
Medieval Music Day (Tintern Abbey)
Saturday 30 May – Sunday 31 May 10am-4pm
Step back in time and experience the magic of medieval music, from the romantic melodies of troubadour love songs to sacred compositions dedicated to the Virgin Mary, in a captivating and immersive experience where visitors can not only see historic instruments up close but also hear them brought to life.
North Wales
Castle Garrison and Red Dragon Archers (Castell Caernarfon)
Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 May 10am – 4pm
Visitors to Castell Caernarfon can enjoy a range of fun activities including medieval skills with the Castle Garrison or trying their hand at archery with the Red Dragon Archers.
Men at Arms (Beaumaris Castle)
Saturday 23 – Monday 25 May, 10am – 5pm
Beaumaris Castle will come alive as fighting knights take over for a packed programme of family-friendly medieval experiences. Visitors can train in the Knight’s School, try sword fighting and watch live combat displays, alongside jester-led circus skills, storytelling, traditional crafts and living history demonstrations. With roaming musicians bringing the castle to life, it promises an immersive and memorable day out for all ages
Plantagenets (Castell Harlech)
Saturday 23 – Monday 25 May, 11am-4pm
Life inside the castle will come to life with demonstrations of horse and accoutrements, archery displays and dances and musicians. A fun and educational experience for the whole family. Visitors can meet the medieval Plantagenets at Castell Harlech for a living history experience across the bank holiday weekend.
West Wales
Strata Florida Abbey Craft Fayre (Strata Florida Abbey)
Sunday 24 May 11am – 3pm
On Whit Sunday, Strata Florida Abbey will host a vibrant craft fayre featuring local arts, crafts and produce, alongside family-friendly activities, guided tours and more.
Rainbow Gecko Bubbleman (Laugharne Castle)
Sat 30 May - Sun 31 May 2026 11am – 4pm
Bubbleman and the Bubble Faerie will bring a playful dose of magic to the day with their fully interactive bubble performances, featuring giant bubbles, bubble animals and even frozen creations. Visitors of all ages can join in the fun, learn a few tricks and take home their own bubble‑filled memories.
Mid Wales
Tretower’s Adventure Trail (Tretower Court and Castle)
Saturday 23 May and Sunday 31 May 10am – 4.30pm
Step into Tretower Court and Castle, where a playful mystery awaits as visitors hunt for tiny secret doors hidden throughout the house and gardens. Each discovery reveals a glimpse into medieval life, making this interactive quest a fun and engaging adventure for families and young explorers.
Other events across Cadw’s historic locations include:
South Wales
- Sand Art: Medieval Shields (Chepstow Castle)
- Discover Medieval Beekeeping (Chepstow Castle)
- A Merry May Time (Castell Coch)
- May half term make and take (Chepstow Castle)
North Wales
- Wise Woman (Plas Mawr)
- Herbal Workshop (Segontium Roman Fort)
- Tunes and Tales with Mair Tomos Ifans (Castell Cricieth)
Mid-Wales
- Tretower Bat Walk (Tretower Court and Castle)
- Medieval Musical Moments (Tretower Court and Castle)
West Wales
- Children’s Activity Day (Strata Florida Abbey)
- HMS Wales Naval Living History (Laugharne Castle)
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 over 130 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 Castell Oxwich, Castell Cilgerran, Rhug Chapel and Llangar Old Parish Church – will also be open for guided tours throughout the summer. Find out more here: https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/whats-on/guided-tours-cadw