FAMILIES across Wales are invited to celebrate the festive season as Cadw unveils a magical programme of Christmas events at castles, abbeys, and historic monuments throughout December.
Visitors can experience the wonder of Welsh heritage with enchanting activities designed to bring history to life and spread seasonal cheer.
Expect festive trails, traditional crafts, Christmas grottos, and atmospheric storytelling that make the most of Wales’ most iconic monuments during the most wonderful time of the year.
Kate Roberts, Chief Executive of Cadw, said: “Our December events offer a unique way to enjoy Wales’ historic places during the festive season.
“From family-friendly activities to immersive experiences, we hope to inspire pride in Welsh heritage while creating magical memories.
“Children can get free entry with any adult membership, making it a brilliant way to keep the whole family entertained throughout the holidays. A Cadw membership also makes a fantastic
“Christmas gift for history lovers, offering unlimited access to 132 historic locations all year round.”
Highlights from December’s line up include:
- Victorian Santa’s Grotto (Blaenafon Ironworks):
December 13, 14, 20 and 21 at 10.30am-3.30pm
Experience the magic of a Victorian Christmas at Blaenavon Ironworks, a UNESCO World Heritage Site steeped in industrial history. Meet Father Christmas in his charming grotto and make festive memories with the whole family. Tickets must be booked in advance. - Christmas Trail (Castell Conwy):
December 13 and 14 at 10am-4pm
Help the cook at Castell Conwy to prepare for the King’s Christmas feast in the Great Hall. Follow the clues around the towers and battlements to find the missing ingredients in time for dinner. - Seasonal Scents: Medieval Christmas Decoration Workshop (Chepstow Castle):
December 6 and 7 at 10am-3pm
Step inside the mighty walls of Chepstow Castle and discover how Christmas was celebrated in medieval times. Learn about the fragrant herbs and spices that travelled from distant lands and create your own scented decoration to take home. - Kalendae Guys (Caerleon Roman Baths):
Each day between December 20 to January 3 (excluding Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day) at 10am – 4pm.
Celebrate the Roman New Year at Caerleon’s historic baths with the popular Kalendae Guys trail. Explore the ancient remains and uncover fascinating facts about Roman life while enjoying a festive family challenge. - Reindeer Trail (Chepstow Castle):
Each day between December 19 and 31 (excluding Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day) at 10am-3pm.
Santa’s reindeer have been exploring Chepstow Castle, leaving behind some mischievous clues… Follow the festive trail through this spectacular riverside fortress and see if you can solve the seasonal mystery. Wrap up warm and enjoy the hunt. - Santa’s Grotto (Tretower Court and Castle):
December 13 and 14 at 11am-3pm
Visit Santa in the beautiful surroundings of Tretower Court, a medieval manor with a rich history. Children can meet Father Christmas and receive a gift, while adults enjoy mulled wine and mince pies. Tickets must be booked in advance. - Make and Take – Christmas Crafts (Chepstow Castle):
December 20 and 21 at 10am-3pm
Get creative in the atmospheric setting of Chepstow Castle with the craft workshop to make a festive decoration and take home your own handmade keepsake as a special reminder of the day. - Brother Thomas the Cellarer (Tintern Abbey):
December 27 and 28 at 10.30am-3.30pm
Travel back in time at Tintern Abbey and hear Brother Thomas share stories of monastic life during the festive season. Explore the stunning gothic ruins and learn about the rituals and traditions of the Cistercian monks.
For those looking to make the most of Cadw’s Christmas programme, a Cadw membership offers free entry to events and unlimited access to 132 historic places across Wales. Children go free with any adult membership, making it the perfect gift for history lovers this festive season.
Find out more at Cadw’s website.
