Unlock Wales' extraordinary history for free this September
This September people across Wales are being invited to step behind closed doors and discover the rich heritage on their doorstep as Cadw’s Open Doors festival returns for 2026 with hundreds of historic sites, community buildings and cultural attractions opening their doors free of charge.
Funded and organised by Cadw, the festival brings together heritage organisations, community groups, places of worship, archives, museums and volunteers from across Wales to offer free access to a wide range of locations including iconic landmarks as well as secret gems that are rarely open to the public.From abbeys and castles to Roman forts and Victorian style prisons, there’s a huge variety of different locations taking part.
This year’s event sees 19 of Cadw’s own iconic monuments opening their doors as part of the festival – including Strata Florida Abbey, Castell Harlech, and Caer-went Roman Town.
The popular festival is Wales’ contribution to the European Heritage Days initiative, dedicated to showcasing the rich tapestry of cultures across the continent. In Wales, it opens a gateway for visitors of all ages to step into the past, immerse themselves in the nation’s dynamic heritage, and uncover the compelling stories that have helped shape its identity.
Dr Ffion Reynolds, Cadw’s Senior Heritage Events and Arts Manager, said:
“Open Doors is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate Wales’ extraordinary heritage and the passionate people who care for it.
"Throughout September, hundreds of organisations, community groups and volunteers across Wales will open their doors, offering the chance to discover the stories that make their places special. From castles and chapels to archives, museums and historic landscapes, there's something for everyone to explore.
"Open Doors encourages people to discover somewhere new on their doorstep, or finally step inside a building they've passed countless times but never visited. What makes the festival so special is the way communities and organisations across Wales come together to showcase the rich heritage that connects us all.
"This year's programme includes unique behind-the-scenes experiences, guided tours and access to places that are rarely open to the public. We're particularly excited to welcome visitors to parts of the historic Mynachlog Fawr farmstead at Strata Florida, offering a rare opportunity to explore an important part of Wales' heritage as part of this year's festival."
A full list of participating locations can be viewed on Cadw’s website with a selection of the festival’s highlights below:
SOUTH WALES
Neath Abbey, Neath Port Talbot
5 & 6 September, 10am-11.30am and 2pm-3.30pm
Neath Abbey, founded in 1130, is one of the most impressive monastic ruins in south Wales. For Open Doors, visitors can delve deeper into its story on extended guided tours where Cadw’s expert historian will reveal how the abbey’s remains illustrate a succession of pivotal episodes in the history of South Wales, including the Norman advance, the suppression of the monasteries and the early stirrings of the Industrial Revolution.
The Royal Mint Experience, Llantrisant
Every Wednesday in September, 10am – 2pm.
The Royal Mint Experience is a unique visitor attraction in south Wales, offering a behind the scenes look at the craftsmanship and history of coin making. During Open Doors, visitors can explore its deep history, going behind the scenes of over 1,000 years of its fascinating journey and find out how it ended up in Wales.
Glamorgan Archives, Cardiff
12 September, 10am – 3.30pm
Glamorgan Archives is home to more than 12 kilometres of historic records dating from the 12th century to the present day. Visitors can go behind the scenes on exclusive tours of the facility, explore centuries of local history and view fascinating original documents from across south-east Wales. Members of the Glamorgan Family History Society will also be on hand to offer advice, with free talks on researching Irish, Welsh and English family history.
WEST WALES
Strata Florida Abbey, Ceredigion
25th September 10am – 2pm, 26th September, 12.30 – 3 pm
Discover one of Wales' most important medieval religious sites at Strata Florida Abbey, often described as the "Westminster Abbey of Wales". As part of Open Doors, visitors can join free guided tours exploring the abbey's rich history, from its foundation and the lives of the Cistercian monks to its connections with the Princes of Deheubarth and the nearby Abbey Consols lead mine. For those looking for an even rarer experience, pre-booked tours will offer access to the ground floor of the historic Mynachlog Fawr farmhouse, giving them a chance to step inside a building not normally open to the public and hear about plans to conserve and transform the wider farmstead for future generations.
St Davids Bishop’s Palace, St David’s
26 & 27 September, 11am-4pm
This palace was the principal state residence of the Medieval Bishops of St David's. A highly ornate structure, it reflects the power and wealth of the medieval church and its Bishops. During Open Doors, guided tours offer a deeper look into the history and grandeur of this remarkable location.
Pontbrenmydyr Cottage, Aberaeron
12 & 13 September, 11am – 2pm
Explore one of the last surviving Welsh clom cottages at Pontbrenmydyr Cottage, a beautifully restored 17th-century mud-built home. Open Doors visitors can discover original features including cobbled stone floors, smoke-blackened oak beams and former cow stalls, while learning how the historic building has been sensitively adapted into a sustainable modern retreat.
Wales Broadcast Archive, Aberystwyth
9 September, 10am – 3pm.
Explore the Wales Broadcast Archive and uncover the rich radio and television heritage of Wales. Housed at the National Library of Wales, the archive preserves thousands of hours of broadcasts documenting Welsh history, culture and everyday life. As part of Open Doors, visitors can view unique collection materials, learn how programmes are preserved for future generations and enjoy specially selected clips celebrating Wales' rural and agricultural communities.
Laugharne Castle, Laugharne
19 & 20 September, 11am – 4pm
Enjoy free access to this magnificent medieval castle, later transformed into a grand Tudor mansion. Its beautiful grounds also provided the perfect antidote to writer’s block, with both Dylan Thomas and acclaimed author Richard Hughes using the castle’s summer garden house to create some of their best work. Steeped in centuries of history, intrigue and conflict, the castle offers a fascinating glimpse into Wales’ past - come and explore it for yourself.
NORTH WALES
Ruthin Gaol, Ruthin
12 September, 12.30pm – 3pm
Peak behind the scenes at North East Wales Archives, housed within Grade II listed former Victorian style prison at Ruthin Gaol. Visitors can explore how centuries of records are preserved in secure archive stores and discover the stories hidden within documents dating back to the 12th century. Family-friendly activities and special archive tours will also offer a fascinating glimpse into the history of Denbighshire and beyond.
Denbigh Castle, Denbighshire
19 & 20 September, 10am – 5pm
Explore one of Wales' most impressive medieval fortresses at Denbigh Castle, part of King Edward I's famous "ring of castles". Enjoy free access to the castle as part of Open Doors, including guided tours of the castles magnificent features including its striking triple-towered gatehouse and formidable curtain walls against a backdrop of breathtaking views , family activities, workshops and talks, all offer a unique opportunity to discover the rich history of the famous castle.
Dolbelydr, Denbighshire
19 & 20 September, 10am – 4pm
Rarely open to the public, Dolbelydr is a beautifully restored 16th-century gentry house believed to be the birthplace of modern Welsh, where Henry Salesbury wrote the first Welsh grammar. Visitors can explore its historic interiors and learn about the conservation of this remarkable building, which retains many original features from the Elizabethan era.
MID WALES
Powis Castle and Gardens, Welshpool
12 & 13 September, 10am-5pm
Set amid lush greenery with sweeping views of the Severn Valley, Powis Castle is renowned for its grand interiors and world-famous terraced gardens. The castle is adorned with world-class paintings and decorative fabrics spanning the Elizabethan to Edwardian periods. During Open Doors, visitors can explore both the castle and its magnificent gardens free of charge.
Brecon Royal Observer Corps Monitoring Post, Brecon
12 September, 11am – 4pm
Climb 15 feet underground and discover life on the frontline of the Cold War at the Brecon ROC Nuclear Monitoring Post. Restored to its original operational condition, the bunker offers a rare glimpse into the role played by Royal Observer Corps volunteers who monitored the threat of nuclear attack across the UK. Visitors can explore the fully equipped underground post and hear first-hand stories from former ROC personnel about this fascinating chapter of modern history.
The Old School, Whitton
Throughout September – Mondays/Tuesdays 11am – 5pm, Sundays 1pm-5pm
Visit the Museum of Welsh Textiles to see displays of Welsh costume, blanket quilts and vernacular items reflecting the lives of traditional weavers and the communities they served. Located in an old school building, the museum also cares for the safeguarding of endangered crafts and teach crafts like Welsh quilting and smocking.
Visitors are advised to check individual event listings as booking requirements vary between locations.
Full details of all participating venues, dates and ticketing information can be found on Cadw’s Open Doors website here: https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/whats-on/open-doors-events
