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Picton Castle announces festive line-up of Christmas events

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PICTON CASTLE is preparing for a vibrant and atmospheric festive season, with a series of special events set to take place over the coming weeks. From creative workshops to family encounters with Santa, visitors can look forward to a varied programme celebrating the warmth, creativity and traditions of Christmas at Picton.

Christmas Fair launches the season

The festive calendar begins with the Christmas Fair on November 22 and 23, when local craft makers, artists and artisan producers will fill the castle grounds with unique gifts, handmade treasures and seasonal treats. It’s the perfect opportunity to support independent craftspeople while soaking up the festive atmosphere of the castle and gardens.

Creative workshops and candlelit tours

Those feeling creative can join the Wreathmaking Workshop on December 6, where participants will craft their own natural wreaths using fresh foliage gathered from the castle grounds. Guests are welcome to bring personal decorations or keepsakes to add to their design, and should bring secateurs, an apron and gloves.

For a cosy evening out, the Candlelight Christmas Tour returns on December 18, inviting visitors to explore the castle illuminated only by candlelight. The evening includes seasonal music, festive displays and drinks with canapés by the fire in the Great Hall — a perfect way to experience Picton’s magic at night.

Meet Father Christmas at the Castle

Families can then look forward to meeting Father Christmas on December 20, 21, 22 and 23, as the castle is transformed with sumptuous decorations and festive activities. Children can follow the elf door trail through the castle, take part in Christmas crafts, and receive a special gift from Father Christmas himself — dressed in his traditional Victorian green robe. Adults can enjoy mulled wine or spiced apple juice by the fireside alongside Mother Christmas in the Great Hall.

Book early to avoid disappointment

Tickets for these events (other than the Christmas Fair) are expected to sell quickly, following the huge popularity of Picton’s Halloween celebrations, which sold out within a day.

For full details and ticket information, visit www.pictoncastle.co.uk or follow Picton Castle and Gardens on social media.

Entertainment

Filming for new season of S4C crime drama Cleddau returns to Pembrokeshire

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Production crew spotted in Pembroke Dock, Neyland and Burton as series set for 2026 release

FILMING has returned to Pembrokeshire this week for the next season of Cleddau — the hit S4C crime drama released in English as The One That Got Away.

The production crew has been seen in Pembroke Dock, Neyland and Burton capturing new scenes for the upcoming 2026 series. Local photographer Gareth Davies shared images of the team working along the estuary, describing “a real buzz” in the area as cast and crew returned after the success of the first season.

Crime thriller rooted in the Cleddau estuary

Cleddau follows a murder investigation that reopens buried secrets in a quiet west Wales community. The show has been praised for its atmospheric storytelling, strong performances and striking use of local Pembrokeshire scenery — with the Cleddau estuary itself forming a central part of the series’ identity.

Residents have reported seeing cameras and production vehicles around familiar walking routes, waterfront areas and estuary-side villages as the crew makes full use of the landscape that inspired the show’s name.

Local interest and economic boost

The return of filming has been welcomed locally, bringing attention, visitors and activity into communities along the waterway. For many residents, the excitement lies in spotting familiar places on screen when the new season airs next year.

The new series of Cleddau is expected to be broadcast in 2026.

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Entertainment

Cardigan Theatre brings Beauty and the Beast to Mwldan this Christmas

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Festive panto promises magic, music and family fun

CARDIGAN Theatre is set to bring festive magic to Theatre Mwldan this Christmas with a fun-filled production of Beauty and the Beast, running from 21–29 December. The pantomime is written and directed by Jonathon Preece and promises all the traditional panto sparkle audiences love.

The story follows once-proud Prince Louis (Emily Davies), who angers Agatha the Evil Enchantress (Kelly Lewis). As punishment for his selfishness, she transforms him into the fearsome Beast (Steve Green). His only hope of breaking the spell is to find true love – or remain a beast forever.

Meanwhile, brave and kind-hearted Belle (Ruby Lemoine) sets out to rescue her eccentric father Marcel (Tom Loveday) who on his way to the “Big Invention Competition”, gets lost and stumbles into the enchanted castle and is taken prisoner by the Beast. Determined to save him, Belle is joined by her loyal friend Jaques, the village silly billy (Sarah Harris), flamboyant Dame Madam Fromage (Rhys Davies), and Gavin (Paul Robinson), the vain village heart-throb who is convinced Belle should marry him!

Inside the castle, Belle encounters a host of enchanted objects, including Tick Tock (Lilwen), Flambe (Bryce), and Mrs Kettle (Manon), who provide humour, magic and plenty of encouragement as they try to help the Beast win Belle’s heart and break Agatha’s curse.

With songs, jokes, colourful characters and plenty of audience participation, the production promises festive fun for all ages.

Beauty and the Beast runs at Theatre Mwldan from 21–29 December. Early booking is advised to avoid disappointment.

Cardigan Theatre can be followed on Facebook and Instagram for updates on future shows.

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Entertainment

Glow returns to Carew Castle with magical illuminations and Santa’s grotto

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CAREW CASTLE and Tidal Mill has launched its annual Christmas spectacular, with the first night of Glow transforming the historic fortress into a shimmering winter wonderland.

The medieval walls are now bathed in colour, with vivid light displays bringing new life to one of Pembrokeshire’s most iconic landmarks. Visitors on opening night were greeted by glowing ramparts, candlelit walkways and festive scenes created inside the castle rooms, including a decorated Christmas tree, a stained-glass style installation and a traditional medieval feast display.

Glow runs every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 4:30pm to 7:30pm until 14 December, offering families the chance to explore the castle after dark in a way that is rarely possible. The illuminated trail has become one of the county’s most popular seasonal attractions, drawing visitors from across West Wales.

A major highlight for younger visitors arrives this weekend, as Santa sets up his magical grotto inside the castle walls. Children can meet Father Christmas every Saturday and Sunday from 10:00am to 4:00pm until 14 December, with each child receiving a gift. Organisers say booking is essential, with limited spaces available.

Carew Castle’s team said they have worked for weeks to prepare the site for the festive season, aiming to create a magical experience for families and returning visitors. Early reactions from guests at the launch night suggest the event could be one of the strongest yet.

Tickets for both Glow and Santa’s Grotto can be booked via events.pembrokeshirecoast.wales.

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