Entertainment

Resort expands its accessibility offering with adapted Platinum lodges

Published

2 years ago

November 23, 2023

BLUESTONE NATIONAL PARK RESORT has launched four adapted lodges as part of its brand new Platinum range.

The luxury holiday resort, named third best in the UK for 2023 by Which? magazine for a second year running, sits in 500 acres of National Park in the scenic countryside of Pembrokeshire.

The Platinum lodges are the most luxurious offering yet, featuring sunrooms, picturesque surroundings, a private entrance, ‘cwtch’ rooms, and 20% more space.

The new lodges have been specially designed to assist those who need additional assistance, including being arranged over a single floor with two bedrooms, a wet-room, and an open-plan lounge, kitchen and dining area, as well as an outdoor patio.

They also have wider doorways, a shower seat and handrails, emergency pull cords and a designated parking space for Blue Badge holders.

The newly launched Platinum lodges boost the resort’s existing accessible offering, with six Caldey lodges having already been adapted for disabled guests.

Guests are able to enjoy a diverse array of activities within the resort, as well as the natural surrounding beauty of Pembrokeshire’s beaches, cliffs and harbours.

Blue Lagoon, a subtropical water park, has designated disabled changing rooms, four aqua chairs and a hoist which can be requested at reception.

While Nature Trails found across the resort have been carefully designed to ensure there are wide pathways, limited steps, and, where needed, disabled access.

The Serendome, a covered outdoor playground, features a state-of-the-art amphitheatre that is wheelchair accessible and also offers a multi-level, aerial adventure course that is suitable for wheelchair users.

The Bluestone team are also able to make arrangements for guests with additional needs – such as those with sensory issues – to have exclusive access to facilities such as Blue Lagoon, Serendome or its indoor play area, The Hive, outside of standard operating hours.

William McNamara, founder and chief executive at Bluestone, said: “Our Free Range Manifesto embodies our commitment to creating a place where children of all ages and abilities can explore nature in beautiful surroundings.

“We’re extremely dedicated to making our resort and holidays accessible to everyone; from tailoring the lighting in our indoor play area to suit those with sensory needs, to opening our facilities outside of standard operating hours for guests who would benefit from quieter sessions.

“We believe that everyone who visits Bluestone deserves an unforgettable experience, which is why we would encourage guests to contact the team in advance to discuss any specific requirements they may have so we can ensure these are meet during their stay.”

With over 100 activities to choose from on the resort, many of which can be adapted for those with additional needs such as bowling or axe throwing, the Bluestone team are able to advise on the most suitable activities ahead of your stay.

Bookings to the adapted Platinum lodges can be made via Bluestone’s website: https://www.bluestonewales.com/resort.

Entertainment

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

Published

1 day ago

December 3, 2025

Tom Sinclair

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.

Entertainment

Cardigan Theatre brings Beauty and the Beast to Mwldan this Christmas

Published

3 days ago

December 1, 2025

Tom Sinclair

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.

Entertainment

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

Published

4 days ago

November 30, 2025

Tom Sinclair

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.