Cadw’s Open Doors 2023: Explore Wales' hidden historic sites for free

FOLLOWING a busy summer of events, Open Doors will offer free entry to hundreds of historic locations across Wales this September, providing a unique opportunity to discover everything from iconic landmarks to secret gems that are rarely open to the public.

From abbeys and castles to Roman forts and Victorian style prisons, there’s a huge variety of different locations taking part.

Funded and organised by Cadw, the popular Open Doors festival is Wales’ contribution to the European Heritage Days initiative, dedicated to showcasing the rich tapestry of cultures across the continent. In Wales, it opens a gateway for visitors of all ages to step into the past, immerse themselves in the nation’s dynamic heritage, and uncover the compelling stories that have helped shape its identity.

As part of Tenby Community Festival and Cadw Open Doors Festival. Tenby Town Council Mayor’s Parlour will be open to all from 11am to 1pm on Saturday, September 19.

Dr Ffion Reynolds, Cadw’s Senior Heritage Events and Arts Manager, said:

“Open Doors is a fantastic opportunity for people to explore the extraordinary heritage on their doorstep and discover places they may have never visited before.

“Whether you're interested in castles, archaeology, industry, religion, literature or local history, there is something for everyone. By opening these places free of charge, we're helping more people connect with the stories, people and landscapes that have shaped Wales.

“This year's programme includes many unique experiences, from behind-the-scenes access and guided tours to opportunities to visit places that are rarely open to the public. We're particularly excited to be able to welcome visitors to parts of the historic Mynachlog Fawr farmstead at Strata Florida as part of this year's festival.”

A full list of participating locations can be viewed on Cadw’s website with a selection of the festival’s highlights in West Wales below:

September 19 and 20, 11am – 4pm

Enjoy free access to this magnificent medieval castle, later transformed into a grand Tudor mansion. Its beautiful grounds also provided the perfect antidote to writer’s block, with both Dylan Thomas and acclaimed author Richard Hughes using the castle’s summer garden house to create some of their best work. Steeped in centuries of history, intrigue and conflict, the castle offers a fascinating glimpse into Wales’ past - come and explore it for yourself.

September 26 and 27, 11am - 4pm

This palace was the principal state residence of the Medieval Bishops of St David's. A highly ornate structure, it reflects the power and wealth of the medieval church and its Bishops. During Open Doors, guided tours offer a deeper look into the history and grandeur of this remarkable location.

September 26, 27 and 28, 10am-7pm

St Davids Cathedral is one of Britain's most remarkable medieval buildings and the resting place of Wales' patron saint, Dewi Sant. As part of Open Doors, visitors can enjoy guided tours of the cathedral, explore rarely seen historic spaces, visit the unique Cathedral Library and climb the medieval bell tower. A programme of talks, demonstrations and special services offers a rare opportunity to experience centuries of Welsh history, faith and culture.

September 12 and 13, 11am – 2pm

Explore one of the last surviving Welsh clom cottages at Pontbrenmydyr Cottage, a beautifully restored 17th-century mud-built home. Open Doors visitors can discover original features including cobbled stone floors, smoke-blackened oak beams and former cow stalls, while learning how the historic building has been sensitively adapted into a sustainable modern retreat.

September 25, 10am – 2pm, September 26, 12.30 – 3 pm

Discover one of Wales' most important medieval religious sites at Strata Florida Abbey, often described as the "Westminster Abbey of Wales". As part of Open Doors, visitors can join free guided tours exploring the abbey's rich history, from its foundation and the lives of the Cistercian monks to its connections with the Princes of Deheubarth and the nearby Abbey Consols lead mine. For those looking for an even rarer experience, pre-booked tours will offer access to the ground floor of the historic Mynachlog Fawr farmhouse, giving them a chance to step inside a building not normally open to the public and hear about plans to conserve and transform the wider farmstead for future generations.

September 9, 10am – 3pm.

Explore the Wales Broadcast Archive and uncover the rich radio and television heritage of Wales. Housed at the National Library of Wales, the archive preserves thousands of hours of broadcasts documenting Welsh history, culture and everyday life. As part of Open Doors, visitors can view unique collection materials, learn how programmes are preserved for future generations and enjoy specially selected clips celebrating Wales' rural and agricultural communities.

Visitors are advised to check individual event listings as booking requirements vary between locations.

Full details of all participating venues, dates and ticketing information can be found on Cadw’s Open Doors website here: https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/whats-on/open-doors-events