Entertainment

Cadw Celebrates 40th anniversary with spooky events across Wales

Published

2 years ago

October 18, 2024

THIS October and November, Cadw is bringing a touch of Halloween magic to historic sites throughout Wales. As Cadw marks its 40th anniversary, the heritage organisation has announced a range of spine-chilling events designed to appeal to all ages.

Whether you’re seeking a paranormal experience, a dose of history with a hint of horror, or simply a family-friendly day out, Cadw has curated activities for everyone. A mix of free and ticketed events, ranging from ghost tours to eerie tales and trails, are detailed on Cadw’s website. Here’s a glimpse of what’s in store this autumn:

South Wales

We’re Going on a Ghost Hunt! (Raglan Castle): Throughout the half-term break, visitors to Raglan Castle can embark on ghost hunts. Families are invited to explore the historic grounds and see how many ghosts they can find.

Dates: 26th-31st October, 9:30am-5:00pm

Ghost Tours (Chepstow Castle): This adult-only event features eye-witness accounts of paranormal activity, shared by the castle’s custodians. Expect an evening filled with ghost stories, folklore, and ancient legends.

Dates: 1st and 2nd November, 7:00pm-8:30pm (Booking required)
Additional tours on 19th October at 6:30pm-7:30pm and 8:30pm-9:30pm.

Haunted History and Folklore Evening Tour (Blaenavon Ironworks): Discover the eerie tales of Blaenavon on this twilight tour. After exploring local legends, guests can enjoy a warm drink and a traditional Welsh cake.

Date: 27th October, 7:00pm-9:30pm
Arrive 15 minutes early with a torch, wet weather gear, and sturdy shoes.
Booking: Call 01495 792615.

North Wales

Escape the Warlock’s Chamber (Castell Conwy): This escape room challenge invites teams to uncover the secrets of the magician Maldwyn mab Diafol. Suitable for ages 10 and up.

Dates: 28th October-3rd November, 11:00am-4:00pm
Cost: £4 per player, in addition to regular admission.

Halloween Tours (Plas Mawr): Experience Britain’s finest Elizabethan townhouse in the dead of night, with ghostly tales to chill even the bravest souls.

Dates: 31st October, 4:30pm-6:00pm & 6:15pm-7:45pm (Booking required)
Family Event: 31st October, 10:00am-4:00pm, featuring face painting and spooky activities.

West Wales

Halloween Games and Activities (Laugharne Castle): Enjoy a range of Halloween-themed games and an eerie trail around the castle grounds, with the chance to win special prizes.

Date: 27th October, 10:00am-4:00pm

Mid Wales

Tretower’s Trail of Terrible Tales: Families can explore the history of Tretower Court and Castle on this spooky trail, with sweet treats for those who complete the journey.

Dates: 30th-31st October, 10:00am-4:00pm

Halloween, the Welsh New Year (Tretower Court and Castle): A special evening lecture by Professor Ronald Hutton explores the ancient Welsh festival of Nos Galan Gaeaf. This adults-only event includes a complimentary hot drink on arrival.

Date: 24th October, 6:30pm-8:00pm (Booking required)

For those looking to make the most of Cadw’s autumn events, membership offers free entry to events and unlimited access to over 130 historic sites across Wales. With something for everyone, it’s an ideal way to discover Wales’ rich heritage during the Halloween season.

For more details and to book tickets, visit Cadw’s website.

Charity

Milford Haven Beer Fest set for Bank Holiday return

Published

19 hours ago

May 6, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Festival promises live music, Welsh ales and community spirit at the waterfront

MILFORD HAVEN Beer Fest is set to return later this month, with organisers promising another packed day of live music, craft drinks and festival atmosphere.

The popular annual event will take place at Milford Waterfront on Saturday, May 23, inside the Ascona Group Marquee, with doors opening at 12:00pm.

Organisers say no advance tickets will be available, with entry operating on a first come, first served basis. Another sell-out is expected and early arrival is strongly advised.

A wide range of Welsh breweries and drinks producers will be represented, including Tenby Harbwr Brewery, Bluestone Brewing Company, Gethin’s Cider, Mantle Brewery, Gower Brewery and Core of the Poodle.

Tiny Rebel Brewery will also be serving lagers, IPAs and its new stout, Coal Drop, while Barti Rum will showcase its latest canned drinks. Prosecco and Pimm’s will also be available.

Entertainment throughout the day will be hosted by Pure West Radio, with headliners 4th Street returning to the waterfront.

The line-up also includes a DJ set from former Welsh rugby international and British and Irish Lion Josh Navidi, alongside performances from Steve Bartram, Big Chicken, Jake Taylor, Function 22 and Natalie O’Brien.

Festivalgoers will also be able to enjoy a street food zone featuring Grub Tacos, Junkyard Dogs and Reeves BBQ.

Community support

Nathan Rees, chairman of Milford Haven Round Table said: “The Beer Festival is a huge highlight for us – not just for the atmosphere, but for the impact it has.

“Every penny raised goes back into the community, funding events like our Carnival and Fireworks and supporting local causes.

“We’re also incredibly grateful to The Ascona Group for their continued sponsorship and to the Port of Milford Haven for their ongoing support as our Major Events Partner, as well as all the Beer Festival sponsors for 2026.”

Ticket information

Entry costs £25 and includes four drink tokens, a festival cup and live entertainment throughout the day.

Additional drink tokens will cost £2.50 each, with cash and card accepted.

The event is strictly over-18s only.

Organisers say there will be a 100 per cent bag search policy, with visitors strongly advised not to bring bags. Free water will be available, and dogs will not be allowed.

Entertainment

Dinosaurs set to take over Milford Waterfront

Published

2 days ago

May 5, 2026

Tom Sinclair

PREHISTORIC FUN COMES TO MILFORD HAVEN

DINOSAURS will be roaming Milford Waterfront later this month as Dinomania brings a day of prehistoric entertainment to the town.

The popular dinosaur attraction will take over the waterfront on Wednesday, May 27, with three interactive shows taking place throughout the afternoon.

Each show will last around 50 minutes and promises plenty of audience participation, prehistoric facts, and family-friendly fun.

Before the ticketed shows begin, visitors are being encouraged to keep an eye out around Milford Waterfront, where Dinomania’s dinosaurs will be out and about during a free walkabout performance between 10:30am and 11:30am.

The walkabout will give families the chance to see the dinosaurs up close and enjoy some entertainment around the waterfront before the main shows get underway.

Milford Waterfront said: “Dinomania will be taking over Milford Waterfront on Wednesday, May 27, with three exciting shows taking place throughout the afternoon.

“Each show lasts approximately 50 minutes and is packed with interactive moments and prehistoric fun.”

Tickets can be booked through the Milford Waterfront website.

Entertainment

Hubberston Girls exhibition launches new space at Waterfront Gallery

Published

2 days ago

May 5, 2026

Tom Sinclair

A NEW exhibition exploring memories of growing up on a council estate has opened at the Waterfront Gallery in Milford Haven.

Artist Lynn Stuart is launching the gallery’s new exhibition space with her solo show, Hubberston Girls, which runs until Saturday, May 30.

The exhibition features a deeply personal series of works drawn and painted on brown paper. The material was chosen for its connection to everyday memories, including lunch bags and magazines wrapped in paper.

Once oiled, the paper becomes semi-transparent, allowing paint to be applied to the reverse and creating layered, intimate images.

The Waterfront Gallery is extending its opening hours for the exhibition and will be open Monday to Saturday, from 10:30am to 4:00pm.

A private view will be held on Thursday, May 14, from 3:00pm to 6:00pm, and all are welcome.

The gallery is based in the Old Sail Loft on Discovery Quay, Milford Waterfront, Milford Haven. It is one of south west Wales’s leading art galleries, a registered charity, and home to the Wales Contemporary annual competition.

The gallery is run by artist volunteers who exhibit there regularly.