A holiday for the history books: 3 ways for families to step back in time at Welsh castles this summer

The historical monuments of Wales will come to life this summer — with thanks to Cadw’s epic calendar of family-friendly events.

With events spanning across August, families will be entertained by the comical town jester at Conwy Castle and invited to meet the Ardudwy Knights at Harlech Castle.

Including the above, here are 7 of the best ways to unearth the treasures of Welsh history this summer. To see Cadw’s full line-up of family-friendly events visit cadw.gov.wales.

For those who fancy making the most of the events on offer, Cadw membership offers free event entry and unlimited access to over 130 historic sites across Wales.

1. Friday Frolics and Fun at Conwy Castle

From 26 July until 26 August, Friday visitors to Conwy Castle will be entertained by the comical town jester and enjoy tales of time gone by — as told by the resident storyteller.

Children will also be able to try their hand at archery and attend magical wand workshops — fit for a wizard!

Every Friday from 29 July – 26 August, 10:00 am – 4:00pm.
Standard admission prices apply. No prior booking required.

2. Meet the Ardudwy Knights at Harlech Castle

For a family day out filled with historical fun and medieval drama, Harlech Castle welcomes visitors to experience the thrill of life in a medieval castle. With weapon demonstrations, archery and combat displays, visitors can discover how their ancestors lived and fought through the Middle Ages.  

Visitors will also be flying high with birds of prey as they showcase incredible skill and swoop overhead.  

Harlech Castle Ardudwy Knights 
Saturday 27 – Sunday 28 August: 11:00am – 4:00pm.
Standard admission prices apply. No prior booking required.

3. Enjoy medieval merriment at Beaumaris Castle 

Visitors to Beaumaris Castle over the bank holiday weekend can delve into 12th century life at its best — with the return of the site’s annual medieval festival. 

Visitors can begin by exploring the site’s medieval encampment — where they can learn about everything from arrow making and leather work to medieval cooking, games and more. 

Plus, children under 13 can grab a sword and join in with drill training at the Castle’s prestigious Knight School, before being put to the test in an unmissable battle between Lord Gerard de Rhodes and Captain Nicholas Horton at the end of each day.

Medieval Festival at Beaumaris Castle
Saturday 27 August – Monday 29 August 2022: 11:00am – 5:00pm
Standard admission prices apply. No prior booking required.

To see Cadw’s full Summer events programme, please visit cadw.gov.wales/visit/whats-on/find-a-cadw-event, follow @CadwWales on Twitter or search Cadw on Facebook.

Cadw membership includes entrance to this fantastic programme of summer events, as well as Cadw’s full suite of 100+ historical sites — from as little as £1.50 a month. Join via cadwmembership.service.gov.wales.