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.

AS part of the Torch Theatre’s ‘One More Time’ campaign, where audience members are encouraged to visit the Theatre’s productions just one more time this year, local amateur actors from Artistic Licence will present Alan Bennett’s Talking Heads this October. For two nights this month, three local ladies will take to the stage performing a classic monologue each.

The timeless monologues, first shown on television in the 1980’s will be brought to life on the Torch Theatre stage on Thursday 17 October and Friday 18 October. Her Big Chance will be performed by Janine Lewis, Margaret Slater Harries will perform A Lady of Letters with Carol Mackintosh bringing you A Cream Cracker Under the Settee.

These monologues are portraits of three very different women – their folly, boredom, pain and joy – but all sharing Alan Bennett’s masterly observation of the human condition.

All proceeds from these performances will be given to the Torch Theatre and presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd.

Artistic Licence: Talking Heads will feature on the Torch Theatre stage on Thursday 17 October and Friday 18 October both at 7.30pm. Ticket price: £12. To book your tickets or for further information, contact the Box Office on 01646 695267 or visit torchtheatre.co.uk.

A NEW Welsh drama series, Cleddau, is set to captivate audiences with its thrilling combination of a murder mystery and an intense love story. The six-part series, with each episode running for 60 minutes, will premiere tonight, Sunday 13th October, at 9pm on S4C.

Set in Pembroke Dock, Cleddau brings together some of the finest talent in Welsh crime drama. The series is penned by renowned writer Catherine Tregenna, known for her work on The Bench, Law & Order UK, Lewis, and DCI Banks. The cast includes Elen Rhys (The Mallorca Files, Craith/Hidden), Richard Harrington (Y Gwyll/Hinterland), and Rhian Blythe (Y Golau/The Light in the Hall, Craith/Hidden).

The gripping storyline begins with the shocking murder of a nurse, which reopens old wounds in the tight-knit community of Pembroke Dock. As the investigation unfolds, it throws a historic conviction into doubt, raising the disturbing possibility of a copycat killer. At the heart of the drama is the reunion of two former lovers, now tasked with solving the case, as they navigate both the complexities of the crime and their shared past.

With twists and turns throughout, Cleddau promises viewers a heart-stopping finale, offering a forensic examination of a town, a killer, and the turbulent relationship of the central characters.

All episodes will be broadcast in Welsh with English subtitles available across all platforms. The first episode airs tonight on S4C, and will also be available on S4C Clic and BBC iPlayer. Don’t miss the premiere at 9pm!