History, quests and castle adventures this half-term at Carew Castle
Families can look forward to a packed programme of history, hands-on activities and outdoor adventure at Carew Castle this May half-term, with events running throughout the week for children and adults alike.
From treasure hunts and medieval encampments to herbs, bats and siege engines, the programme offers plenty of ways to explore the Castle’s history and grounds in fun and memorable ways.
Running daily throughout the holiday, Time Traveller’s Quest invites visitors to step into the past on a self-led treasure hunt through the ages. Using a smart phone, families can journey from the Iron Age to the Medieval and Elizabethan eras, and even into World War II, uncovering secrets hidden within the Castle walls. The activity costs £2.50 per child, with normal admission fees applying.
From Sunday 24 to Tuesday 26 May, the spectacular Bowlore: Legends of Bow and Blade returns with its medieval encampment, bringing death-defying sword fighting, awesome archery and armour displays to the Castle grounds. Visitors can take part in Sword School, try Have-a-Go Archery and handle authentic medieval weapons. Normal admission fees apply, with a small cash charge for some activities.
On Wednesday 27 May at 2.30pm, visitors can witness the launch of the Giant Trebuchet, one of the Castle’s most dramatic and popular demonstrations. This huge medieval catapult once hurled stones at fortified walls with devastating force, offering a fascinating glimpse into the power and ingenuity of medieval siege warfare.
Later that evening, Carew Castle will host a Night Bat Walk at 8.45pm, giving visitors the chance to discover the hidden wildlife that emerges after dark. Led by an expert guide and using bat detectors, the walk will explore why the Castle grounds are such an important haven for bats. Tickets cost £10 per person, spaces are limited and booking is essential via:
https://events.pembrokeshirecoast.wales/#category_1
For children who enjoy nature and crafts, Hooray for Herbs! takes place on Thursday 28 and Friday 29 May from 2.30pm to 3.30pm. Families can enjoy a short tour of the herb beds before gathering ingredients to make toothpaste, lemon balm tea and a traditional nosegay. The activity is free with a normal Castle admission ticket.
There is more hands-on fun on 28 and 29 May, with Weapons and Armour drop-in sessions from 10.30am to 11.30am, where visitors can try on armour, lift a battle shield and long sword, and learn a few sword-fighting moves. Later in the day at 3pm, families can join Find the Key!, an exciting guided quest to hunt for the one key that will unlock the treasure chest. Both activities are included free with normal admission.
The half-term programme ends on a creative note on Saturday 30 May, when Magical Makes with Whimsical Wildlings takes over the Castle’s atmospheric undercroft. Children can decorate their own crowns, swords, flags, mirrors and shields to take home, with prices starting from £2 per item. No booking is needed.
Daisy Hughes, Manager of Carew Castle and Tidal Mill, said: “There’s a fantastic mix of activities at Carew Castle this half-term, from medieval action and family quests to nature experiences and creative crafts. It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to enjoy time together, explore the Castle and discover something new.”
Visitors are advised that Carew Castle will close early on Saturday 23 May for a private wedding. Last admission will be at 1pm and the Castle will close at 1.30pm. Carew Tidal Mill, the Gift Shop and Nest Tearoom will remain open as usual.
Nest Tearoom will also be open during the half-term holiday, serving light lunches, homemade cakes and fantastic Fairtrade coffee.
Some events have limited spaces or must be booked in advance. Further information about all events can be found at www.pembrokeshirecoast.wales/events.