Carmarthenshire’s castles at Laugharne and Kidwelly are helping to bring history to life this summer as part of Cadw’s vibrant programme of family-friendly events across Wales.

Throughout July and August, visitors of all ages are invited to take part in a rich array of immersive historical experiences, interactive workshops, and hands-on activities - all designed to breathe life into Welsh history.

With over 60 events scheduled over the school holidays, some of the standout moments in West Wales from this summer’s programme include:

Living History Weekend (Laugharne Castle), Saturday, July 26 and Sunday, July 27, 11am – 4pm.

Travel back in time at Laugharne Castle for a weekend of hands-on history. Discover what life was like in a medieval village, watch live Civil War weaponry in action and dig into the past with a mock archaeological excavation.

Queen Victoria Afternoon Tea Experience (Laugharne Castle), Saturday August 2 and Sunday, August 3, 11am - 4pm.

Witness a taste of Victorian elegance at Laugharne Castle by watching the Queen Victoria Afternoon Tea Experience. Delight in period costumes and a regal atmosphere as you step back into the refined world of 19th-century Britain. A charming and unique way to spend a summer afternoon.

HMS Wales Reenactment Society (Kidwelly Castle), Saturday, August 23 to Monday, August 25, 11am - 4pm.

Step aboard the age of sail with the HMS Wales Reenactment Society and discover life in the Royal Navy during Admiral Nelson’s era. From shipboard roles to landing party drills, explore authentic naval equipment, demonstrations, and the daily duties of a ship’s company brought to life at Kidwelly Castle by expert reenactors.

Additional events in the two Carmarthenshire attractions include:

Laugharne Castle:

Naval Living History Weekend, Saturday, August 9 and Sunday, August 10, 11am – 4pm.

Willow Weaving Workshop (Laugharne Castle), Sunday, August 17, 11am - 4pm.

Kidwelly Castle:

Juggling Jim, Saturday, August 2 and Sunday, August 3, 11am – 4pm.

The Time Travelling Medicine Man, Wednesday, August 13 and Thursday, August 14, 11am – 4pm.

Cadw is also offering an expanded programme of guided tours at selected locations across Wales this summer, to help visitors unpack the rich history behind each site. Tours will be available on different dates throughout the season. Spaces will be limited and, due to high demand, Cadw is encouraging visitors to book their tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

Gwilym Hughes, Head of Cadw, said:

“Our summer events are all about making history fun and engaging for families. From meeting medieval characters and witnessing dramatic falconry displays to discovering the secrets of ancient ruins and enjoying fairytale picnics, there’s something to capture every imagination. Plus, with free entry for children under adult memberships, it’s a fantastic way to experience Wales’ heritage together.”

For those looking to make the most of the summer holidays, a Cadw membership offers free entry to all events and unlimited access to 132 historic places across Wales. Children go free with adult memberships, making it a great value option for families.

Find out more and book tickets at: https://cadw.gov.wales .