
Family-friendly events taking place at Cadw sites in Wales
Cadw has announced a range of activities at castles, abbeys, and ancient monuments across the country.
From Saturday, May 25, to Sunday, June 2, visitors will be able to enjoy historical experiences, interactive workshops, and hands-on activities.
Head of Cadw, Gwilym Hughes, said: "Our lively schedule of events across May half-term will hopefully inspire pride in Welsh heritage, spark curiosity, and offer fun for all ages.
"It's an opportunity for families to get out and learn about the rich history that makes Wales so unique.
"Children go free with any adult membership offering great value to keep the whole family entertained over the holidays and throughout the year."
More than 20 events are planned for the school holidays.
Highlights include the Plantagenets at Castell Harlech from Saturday, May 24, to Monday, May 26, between 11am and 4pm.
Visitors will be able to meet the medieval Plantagenets and enjoy demonstrations of horse and accoutrements, archery displays, and dances and musicians.
Beaumaris Castle will host a Knight Camp from Wednesday, May 28, to Friday, May 30, between 10am and 5pm.
Visitors will be able to meet armoured knights, watch combat displays, and learn about the skills and stories of the medieval age.
Other events across Cadw's historic locations include Wise Woman and the Surgeon and Fooling Around at Plas Mawr, a Craft Showcase at Denbigh Castle, Men at Arms at Beaumaris Castle, Castle Garrison and Red Dragon Archers at Caernarfon Castle, Tunes and Tales with Mair Tomos Ifans at Castell Cricieth, and Tales of Wales at Castell Cricieth and Castell Rhuddlan.
A Cadw membership offers free event entry and unlimited access to 132 historic places across Wales.
Children also go free with any adult membership.
For more information about the events and guided tours, visit the Cadw website.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Scotsman
31 minutes ago
- Scotsman
Who won Race Across the World today? BBC final recap
See which of the four teams managed to win Race Across the World series 5 🏃♂️ Sign up to our Arts and Culture newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Race Across the World has crowned the winners for series 5. The winning pair walks away with the grand prize after the final leg. But which team made it to the last checkpoint first? The fifth winners of Race Across the World have been crowned after a rollercoaster final on the BBC. The remaining teams faced one last dash to reach the last checkpoint on a truly mammoth journey. After eight weeks - and around 14,000km - four pairs successfully completed the journey from the Great Wall of China to Kanyakumari in India. It is an incredible journey that has taken them across two of the most populous countries in the world - via Nepal. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad However, all good things must come to an end, as they say. The final of Race Across the World's fifth series took place tonight (June 11) and just over seven hours separated the top three teams heading into the last leg. But which of the pairs managed to run out as victors at the end of the race? Here's all you need to know: Who won Race Across the World series 5? Race Across the World series 5 finalists | BBC Heading into the final leg of the mammoth race from China to the bottom of India, mother and son duo Caroline and Tom were in the lead. They reclaimed the top spot at the end of last week's seventh leg - as then-leaders Brian and Melvyn saw themselves tumble to the bottom of the leader board after opting for the rural route and avoiding Mumbai and falling 17 hours behind. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Caroline and Tom had a nearly seven hour lead over sisters Elizabeth and Letita. Young Welsh couple Fin and Sioned were ever so slightly further behind at seven hours and 48 minutes - having clawed back from a 33 hour deficit earlier in the season. It set things up for a dramatic final dash across the southern states of India. But who made it to Kanyakumari first? Caroline and Tom were the first to reach the last checkpoint and thus were crowned winners of Race Across the World series five. What does the winner of Race Across the World get? The winning couple walk away with a £20,000 jackpot - as well as bragging rights of course. It has been the same prize since the show began back in 2019. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Fortunately for fans, the show is not completely over as there is still one episode left in the season. Race Across the World will be back next week (June 18) with a reunion special that will reunite the five teams six months after the end of the race. It promises unseen footage, behind-the-scenes insights and plenty more. Find out how to watch it here.


Wales Online
2 hours ago
- Wales Online
This unsung forest trail has waterfalls, wildlife and a cosy vintage cafe stop
This unsung forest trail has waterfalls, wildlife and a cosy vintage cafe stop This carefully managed woodland has plenty of trails to explore It's a carefully managed woodland (Image: Portia Jones ) Stepping onto the woodland trail, you'll first notice how the crisp air is laced with the earthy scent of damp pine and moss, a sensory reminder that this is nature at its most untamed. This is the unsung Hafren Forest in Mid Wales, where you'll find cascading waters, trails, and a vintage café a short drive away. Hafren is a carefully managed woodland with a fascinating history and plenty of trails to explore. The Forestry Commission originally planted it in the 1930s for timber production, but today, it offers far more than just rows of trees. Managed by Natural Resources Wales, the forest now strikes a balance between commercial forestry, conservation, and public enjoyment, making it a vital habitat for wildlife and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The name Hafren comes from the Welsh word for the River Severn (Afon Hafren), which begins its epic journey to the sea right here. Over the decades, Hafren Forest has evolved into a popular and accessible walking destination, with its mix of natural beauty, heritage features and well-maintained trails attracting visitors year-round. The trails here are well-marked and inviting, winding through groves of pines and firs. Their natural symmetry forms archways overhead, framing the path ahead. When sunlight breaks through the clouded sky, it pours in golden beams, illuminating leaves and bark. Article continues below The river takes centre stage here. The Afon Hafren, better known as the River Severn, begins its journey on the slopes of Pumlumon, with its hidden source waiting just beyond the forest. At first, it's no more than a gentle stream weaving its way through the trees with a calm determination. But it doesn't stay quiet for long. It gathers strength as it tumbles over rocky ledges, transforming into roaring waterfalls that cut through the landscape with relentless energy. The forest trails I love the forest trails (Image: Portia Jones ) There are plenty of trails to discover here, and they are waymarked from start to finish. Starting at the Rhyd-y-benwch car park, the paths lead you through towering trees, past rushing waterfalls, and even to the hidden source of the River Severn. Cascades Walk (0.9 km, 30 minutes, Accessible) The Cascades Walk offers a gentle stroll and welcomes visitors of all abilities. It starts with a sloping path from the car park and leads to a picturesque boardwalk that hugs the riverbank. Along the route, cascading water tumbles over rocks, providing a soothing soundtrack for your forest hike. At the end of the boardwalk, a raised viewing platform offers a wonderful vantage point to pause and take it all in before looping back along a wide, well-surfaced path through the forest. Severn-Break-its-Neck Trail (2.3 km, 1 hour, Moderate) This trail is as dramatic as its name suggests. Beginning at the car park, you'll follow a gently winding path along the river before it opens into a meadow, where a boardwalk takes you closer to the sound of rushing water. After a brief climb, the Severn-Break-Its-Neck waterfall comes into view. Here, the River Severn thunders down a rocky gully, its raw energy palpable as you cross the footbridge above. The return leg follows a forest road, offering sweeping views through the trees and a chance to catch your breath after the steeper sections. There are plenty of trails to discover here (Image: Portia Jones ) Blaen Hafren Falls Trail (6 km, 1.5 hours, Moderate) For a longer hike, the Blaen Hafren Falls Trail offers a longer, more immersive walk through the forest canopy. The route follows a well-surfaced gravel path alongside the River Severn, leading you through tranquil woodland. As the trail ascends, glimpses of the surrounding forest emerge before revealing the cascading Blaen Hafren Falls hidden among the trees. Benches along the way provide spots to rest and take in the scenery. The trail loops back via a forest road, making it a rewarding option if you want a hiking challenge. You'll see rushing waterfalls here (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto ) Source of the Severn Trail (13 km, 5 hours, Strenuous) This is my favourite route in the Hafren Forest as it leads to the source of the River Severn. It's remarkable to think that the mighty River Severn, which spans over 200 miles, begins its journey here in Hafren Forest. Its humble origins on the slopes of Pumlumon quickly gain momentum as the water carves its way through the forest, forming a series of lively cascades and waterfalls. As you follow the trails, the sound of the river changes, growing stronger and more insistent. Each step brings you closer to the rhythm of the water, building like an overture before revealing its hidden source beyond the forest's edge. Reaching the source is no ordinary walk. A steep climb takes you onto the moorland, where a simple, carved wooden post marks the exact spot. This is my favourite route in the Hafren Forest as it leads to the source of the River Severn. (Image: Portia Jones ) Beyond Hafren: long-distance adventures Hafren Forest is also the starting point for two epic long-distance walks. The Wye Valley Walk follows the River Wye for 136 miles, while the Severn Way traces the Severn's journey to Bristol. For a shorter challenge, the Sarn Sabrina circular walk offers 25 miles of myths and landscapes named after a Celtic river goddess. Cyclists can also explore the area via the Sustrans National Cycle Network, which winds through the forest and beyond. It's a great way to experience the region's beauty faster. Afternoon tea at Cobblers Tea Room Cobblers Tea Room is worth visiting (Image: Portia Jones ) If all that walking has left you starving, hop in the car and head to the charming market town of Llaindloes. Here, you will find the vintage Cobblers Tea Room on the High Street, a cosy spot for coffee and cakes. Step inside, and you're met with the comforting smell of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods still warm from the oven. This cosy, traditional tea room has welcomed visitors since coming under new management in December 2018, and has become a local favourite. Their well-priced menu features homemade delights. Cakes are baked on-site, and seasonal offerings include mince pies in winter and gelato in summer. Sandwiches are made fresh to order, and the daily homemade soup is perfect for warming up after a big forest hike. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here Article continues below For more information on the Hafren Forest, click here

Leader Live
3 hours ago
- Leader Live
Wynne Evans says Strictly controversy took him into ‘darkest spot' of his life
The Welsh tenor, 53, known for the GoCompare insurance advertisements, competed in the recent series of the BBC dancing programme alongside professional Katya Jones. Evans recently announced that he had been dropped by the BBC and will no longer present on BBC Radio Wales following an apology saying that he used 'inappropriate language' during the launch of the Strictly Come Dancing tour. The apology came after the Mail On Sunday reported in January that he aimed a sexual joke at one of the other professional dancers, Janette Manrara. Speaking on ITV's This Morning, he claimed the story was taken out of context and that he was talking to fellow contestant, EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick, who he gave the nickname 'old spit roast boy' to. He said: 'I used to call him this because he could contort his legs over his head. 'I didn't know there was a reporter still there, recording, apparently, on their phone. 'Even though I'm looking at Jamie, they claim that I'm directing this word at Janette. And it's totally been taken out of context. 'When I saw the narrative in the newspaper, I was just shocked and horrified.' He added that the nickname was 'unsuitable' and 'inappropriate' and claims that he was misrepresented. This comes after Borthwick was suspended from the BBC when a video emerged of the actor using a disabled slur on the set of the dance programme. Evans added that he never approved of the statement that was issued by the BBC in January where he apologised for making an 'inappropriate and unacceptable' comment. He said: 'They didn't run it by me. They sent it off to the newspaper. They printed that as my apology. And, of course, then it looks like I validated the story.' A BBC spokesperson said: 'The apology issued on Wynne's behalf by the Strictly Come Dancing Tour PR representative on Saturday January 25 was fully approved by Wynne.' While recounting the controversy, he got visibly emotional and said that he wanted to end his life. He said: 'I've had clinical depression since 2016, diagnosed. It took me into the darkest spot of my life. 'I was at my lowest ebb. I wanted to end my life. I would have if I hadn't been surrounded by people. 'At one point one of the newspapers was so relentless, I remember saying to my girlfriend, I have to kill myself, I have to, because this is what they want.' He added that he was under the crisis team for a month with his family, friends and girlfriend on a rota to be with him 24 hours a day. Overnight, Evans has also shared in an Instagram post that he is engaged to his girlfriend Liz Brookes, saying that he is feeling 'very lucky' after proposing in Morocco.