This September, more than 200 of Wales’ historic sites, landmarks and hidden gems will offer visitors free entry, events or guided tours.
It’s all part of Open Doors — Wales’ annual contribution to the European Heritage Days initiative, which invites heritage organisations, private owners, local authorities and others to open their doors or offer activities to the public free of charge during September.
Funded and organised by Cadw, the ever-popular festival of Wales’ built heritage will this year, encourage Welsh residents and visitors alike to explore some of the country’s lesser-known and smaller-scale sites ― several of which are usually closed to the public.
Open Doors – Plas Newydd House and Garden
Sat 13 Sep – Sun 14 Sep 2025, 09:30 – 17:00
The ancestral home of the Marquess of Anglesey sits majestically on the shores of the Menai Strait, a family home enjoying breathtaking views of Eryri (Snowdonia).
The surrounding gardens are great for exploring, and include an Australasian arboretum, Italianate terrace garden and extensive woodland walks.
There’s plenty for little explorers too, including a hand-built tree house, nine-hole Frisbee™ golf course, and adventure playground. You might even meet one of the resident red squirrels!
The house is home to a Waterloo-inspired military museum, works of art, regular exhibitions and, at its heart, Rex Whistler’s famous 58-foot fantasy landscape painting. This weekend will also be the launch of a new art exhibition.
No booking required.
Address – National Trust, Plas Newydd, Llanfairpwll, Anglesey, LL61 6DQ.
Open Doors – Penrhyn Castle and Garden
Sat 13 Sep – Sun 14 Sep 2025, 10:00 – 17:00
The dominating stone façade of Penrhyn Castle hides more than just its internal redbrick construction. The unique architecture, opulent interiors and fine art collection sit alongside a history of sugar and slate fortunes.
Discover Penrhyn’s history, its vast rooms, neo-Norman stairways and Victorian kitchens.
The extensive grounds are perfect for exploring and enjoying spectacular views of Eryri (Snowdonia) and the North Wales coast.
There’s something for everyone at Penrhyn; just expect the unexpected.
No booking required.
Address – Penrhyn Castle, Ffordd Llandygai, Bangor, Gwynedd, LL57 4HT.
Open Doors – Bodnant Garden National Trust
Sat 13 Sep – Sun 14 Sep 2025, 09:30 – 17:00
This world-famous garden is home to National Collections and Champion Trees.
A great garden offers something to enjoy during every season, and grade I-listed Bodnant has 80 acres of formal gardens, woodland and panoramic mountain views to stir your senses. Find a walk that’s suitable for you, and admire the beauty of the colourful planting schemes.
There will be an International Garden Photographer of the Year Exhibition in the garden during the period of Open Doors which is free for everyone to enjoy.
No Booking Required
Address : Bodnant Garden National Trust, Bodnant Road, Tal-y-Cafn, near Colwyn Bay, Conwy, LL28 5RE.
For more information and to view all the Open Doors Events, visit the Cadw website.
