100+ events and activities for families in and around Cardiff for summer 2025
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The schools are out for summer and if you’re looking for ideas on how to entertain your children, here are more than 100 events and activities taking place in and around Cardiff over the next six weeks.
I’ve rounded up everything I can find, but let me know anything I’ve missed in the comments on social media. Events are split into the following categories: Theatre and performance; Museums and cultural attractions; Events at castles; Festivals and fun days; Family fun; Arts and crafts; Farm parks; Outdoor attractions; Cinema.
All events are subject to change or cancellation, so please check in advance with organisers to avoid disappointment.
As always, your support makes such a difference in helping other families discover places to visit. Every share, like, save or comment on social media really helps and is much appreciated.
Have a great summer and, if you visit anything you’ve seen here, let me know and tag me on socials.
You can follow Cardiff Mummy Says on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok where I’ll be sharing more adventures and days out ideas.
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Sponsored by The Red Dragon Centre
This guide is sponsored by The Red Dragon Centre, which has got you covered over the summer holidays, with blockbuster films, free family activities, bowling, tasty dining, and lots more all under one gigantic roof. Cardiff’s premier entertainment venue has plenty going on for families this summer.
Blockbuster films at ODEON
We are looking forward to heading to the ODEON for this summer’s biggest films. Jurassic World: Rebirth, Superman and Smurfs are all already on the big screen, with upcoming releases including The Fantastic Four: First Steps (released 24 July), The Bad Guys 2 (25 July) and Freakier Friday (8 August)
Films are great value at the ODEON, from £6 all day every day, when booked online. Or upgrade to watch in 3D or on the IMAX screen for the ultimate movie experience.
A super selfie spot
When we visited recently, we loved striking our best superhero pose at the Superman mural which has just landed at The Red Dragon Centre. The larger-than-life art work is part of a nationwide street art trail celebrating the release of James Gunn’s Superman, with Cardiff one of only five UK cities in hosting this bold, interactive installation. Scan the QR code during your visit, you could win an exclusive private screening of Superman at the ODEON.
Science workshops from Experimental Science
Experimental Science will once again be hosting their popular fun and interactive science workshops.
Book now for Dino World Mystery on 31 July (10am, 11.30am and 1pm), an immersive workshop where young adventurers aged 4+ become dinosaur detectives. Uncover clues, solve prehistoric puzzles, and use dino-logic to crack the case of who attacked the mighty Brachiosaurus.
The Great Chocolate Robbery takes place on 14 August (10am, 11.30am and 1pm). This interactive forensic science workshop will see young detectives aged 4+ crack a delicious mystery. Kids will use real investigative techniques like chemical testing, footprint tracking, and fingerprint matching to solve the case of the missing chocolate recipe.
PokeCon Day
Spend the bank holiday at The Red Dragon Centre with PokeCon Day on Monday 25 August.
From 11am-5pm, explore a pop-up packed with merch, trading cards, and collectibles – perfect for fans, collectors, and Trainers of all ages. You can also take on the Brick Your Buddy Challenge (12pm-4pm). Build your favourite battle buddy from bricks, snap a photo, and tag #BrickYourBuddy for the chance to win exclusive merch and cinema tickets.
No tickets needed – just turn up and enjoy!
Family dining
You can feed the family at The Red Dragon Centre with dining options including burgers, fries and shakes at Five Guys, Cardiff’s only all-you-can-eat Japanese restaurant Volcano, Zaika Asian and grill restaurant, and Buffet Tonight, with its all you can eat Indian and Pakistani buffet.
Free parking
With free customer parking for up to six hours (subject to minimum spend and validation), The Red Dragon Centre is a great day out for the whole family this summer.
When the car park is full, temporary customer parking is available at Q-Park, Pierhead Street, CF10 4PH) – just a short distance away. Centre customers can continue to enjoy six hours of free parking as part of this arrangement. See The Red Dragon Centre website for information on how to validate your ticket.
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100+ events and activities for families in and around Cardiff for summer 2025
Theatre and performance
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Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat
Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff
Tuesday 22-Sunday 27 July 2025
From £17
Starring X-Factor winner Joe McElderry as Pharaoh, Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat returns to Wales Millennium Centre. The multi award-winning features many musical theatre classics, including Any Dream Will Do, Close Every Door, There’s One More Angel In Heaven and Go, Go, Go Joseph.
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Sherman Theatre, Cardiff
Thursday 24-Saturday 26 July
£10, under 25s half price
The Sheman’s youth groups come together to present a spooky new comedy suitable for all ages and performed by young people aged eight to 18.
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Go Theatre: The SpongeBob Musical Youth Edition
Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Cardiff
Thursday 24-Saturday 26 July
£15
From the team that produce Cardiff Open Air Theatre Festival, Go Productions are back with The Spongebob Musical : Youth Edition. This one‑hour edition of the hit Broadway musical adapted from the iconic Nickelodeon series is specially tailored for young actors.
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Dinosaur Adventure Live presents The Big Jurassic Storm
Memo Arts Centre, Barry
Friday 25 July, 2pm
From £17
After a satellite malfunctions, chaos erupts on the island. To save all the dinosaurs the brave rangers must find the code hidden deep in the island. Help the rangers save dinosaur island and meet some roar-some dinosaur babies.
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Bryngarw House and Country Park, Bridgend
Wind in the Willows
Monday 4 August, 5pm, from £12.50
Join Ratty, Mole, Badger, and the irrepressible Toad as they embark on the adventure of a lifetime culminating in a colourful battle to save Toad Hall from the mischievous weasels. Expect lots of interaction, stunning costumes, toe-tapping music, and larger-than-life characters. Age guidance 4+
Robin Hood
Sunday 10 August, 5pm, from £10
A new musical adaptation of this classic tale. Set against the enchanting backdrop of the eerie Sherwood Forest, this whimsical production sees King John and the Sheriff of Nottingham trying to thwart the legendary outlaw, Robin Hood, and his band of merry men as they steal from the rich to give to the poor. Age guidance 3 to 10 year olds.
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Taylormania
Wednesday 6 August, 7:30pm
£32.50
Monday 18 August, 2pm and 7:30pm
£30
Award-winning tribute act Katy Ellis delivers a recreation of Taylor Swift’s record breaking Eras tour with a live band and dancers. Features all of Taylor’s well-known hits including; Shake It Off, Blank Space, Love Story, You Belong With Me, Look What You Made Me Do, I Knew You Were Trouble and many more.
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Fun For Little Ones – A Tribute To Ms Rachel
New Theatre, Cardiff
Saturday 9 August, 2pm
£17.50
An interactive live show with lots of audience participation, Ms Rachel’s Fun For Little Ones live tribute tour features singing, dancing and educational content. The show features interactive animation and scenery on screen, plus puppetry and voices on screen with Bertie and friends.
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New Theatre, Cardiff
Sunday 10 and Monday 11 August
£15.50 -£17.50
An interactive family show where you’ll discover a prehistoric world of remarkably life-like dinosaurs, including the Tyrannosaurus Rex, a Triceratops, Giraffatitan, Microraptor and Segnosaurus. A special meet and greet after the show offers the chance to make a new dinosaur friend meet these creatures up close. This live interactive show is the winner of the prestigious 2024 Olivier Award for Best Family Entertainment in London’s West End.
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New Theatre, Cardiff
Wednesday 20-Thursday 21 August
£20.50 -£26
Join Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy, Makka Pakka and friends in their live show Igglepiggle’s Busy Day. The favourite characters will be brought to life with full-size costumes, puppets, and music, plus a special visit from the flying Pinky Ponk. This show lasts just under an hour, making it perfect for the youngest of theatre goers.
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Riverfront, Newport
Thursday 21 August, 11.30am and 2.30pm
From £17.50
Norman wants to go on an adventure to impress his friends, so when two famous animal explorers arrive in Pontypandy, he decides to follow them into the mountains, leaving him stranded in a cave. Now it’s up to Fireman Sam to save the day and ensure everyone is safe on their camping adventure.
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Riverfront, Newport
Friday 22 August, 7pm
Adults £16.50, children £13.50, family £51
The superstars of Welsh Wrestling make a welcome return to the Riverfront. See the over-the-top stars of the wrestling world collide in a night of super slamming action at this family entertainment show.
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Cirque: The Greatest Show – Reimagined
New Theatre, Cardiff
Friday 22 August, 7pm
£29-£39.50
A dazzling fusion of musical theatre and jaw-dropping circus acts. Experience iconic West End showstoppers paired with awe-inspiring circus acts in this all-new production bursting with colour, energy, and excitement.
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New Theatre, Cardiff
Tuesday 26 August, 2pm
£23.50- £29.50
A magical show where princesses become pop stars. The four fairy tale princesses are back, and this time they are on their first world tour. Join them in this epic show featuring a soundtrack of pop hits from artists such as Taylor Swift, Meghan Trainor, Miley Cyrus, Dua Lipa and Lizzo, plus a few of the best songs from films and musicals.
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Horrible Histories Live on Stage: Gorgeous Georgians and Vile Victorians
Riverfront, Newport
Wednesday 27 August, 2pm and 5pm
Adults £18, concessions £16
Age guidance 5+; running time 65 minutes
Prepare for Horrible Histories live on stage with this acclaimed production of Gorgeous Georgians and Vile Victorians. Meet iconic figures from history in this educational show based on the bestselling books, including highwayman Dick Turpin, Queen Victoria and Florence Nightingale.
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Riverfront, Newport
Thursday 28 Aug at 11am (Relaxed Performance) and 1pm and 3.30pm
£13.30, £11 children
Ray Bubbles, international bubbleologist and Guinness World Record Holder, uses various different gases to craft stunning bubble sculptures, effects, and magical displays. The performance is suitable for children and adults with additional needs.
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Utilita Arena, Cardiff
Thursday 28 August
WWE returns to Cardiff for a night of drama and entertainment ahead of the much anticipated clash in Paris. See fan favourites such as Jey Uso, Mr Money (Seth Rollins), Rhea Ripley, Sami Zayn and world heavyweight champion Gunter clash in the ring.
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Science Museum – The Live Stage Show
Riverfront, Newport
Saturday 30 August, 2pm
From £19
The Science Museum is going on tour with an educational and entertaining new show. Experience the brand-new stage production which features amazing chemical reactions and experiments, fire, light and explosions.
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Natural History Museum presents Dinosaurs Live
Riverfront, Newport
Sunday 7 September, 2pm
£19.50, age guidance 3+
London’s Natural History Museum is going on tour to take you on a dinosaur adventure like no other. Watch the life-like dinosaurs from the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous come alive right on stage. Discover more about fossils, rocks and how our planet has changed over time.
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Museums and cultural attractions
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South Wales Aviation Museum, St Athan
Saturdays and Sundays, 10am-4pm
Adults £10.48, adult plus one child 3-14 £10.48, additional child £2.62
Wales’ largest independent and undercover aircraft museum, with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.
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FREE Picture Post
Until Sunday 9 November
Explore how the photo magazine Picture Post, first published in 1930, revolutionised the way Britain understood itself, capturing everyday life, major events, and shifting social attitudes. This exhibition brings Picture Post to life through photography, revealing Britain’s transformation from the 1930s to the 1950s.
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FREE John Akomfrah’s Listening All Night to the Rain
Until Sunday 7 September
Contemporary art and activism presented in artist John Akomfrah’s piece. Akomfrah is a founding member of the pioneering Black Audio Film Collective. The immersive audio-visual piece is a journey of sights and sounds that draw out specific moments in time. By listening, watching and engaging with the piece we are encouraged to listen as a form of activism against historic and present injustices.
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FREE Sophie Mak-Schram and collaborators: To Shift a Stone
Until Sunday 15 February 2026
Sophie Mak-Schram explores how power is experienced, shared, and challenged within Amgueddfa Cymru and Chapter Arts Centre. The resulting two-part exhibition, To Shift a Stone, focuses on categorisations (National Museum Cardiff) and forms of assembling (Chapter). Working with activists, community workers, artists, and museum staff, Sophie developed collaborative ‘tools’ that challenge and reimagine power structures.
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FREE Hip Hop: A Welsh Story
Until Sunday 22 February 2026
Discover how hip hop has shaped Welsh culture in this exhibition celebrating the evolution of the genre and artform in Wales. Celebrate the style, culture, community, artists, dance and fashion through the stories of the people who shaped hip hop’s past, present, and future. From the artists, dancers, and communities that make up the scene in Wales.
FREE Clore Discovery Centre
Tuesdays to Fridays, July 22-August 29
The museum’s interactive gallery is filled with hundreds of objects from the museum collection that you can handle. Plus take part in museum-inspired crafts.
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Humans, Mammoths and other Ice Age Animals from Welsh Caves
Thursday 31 July, 12pm
Pay what you can; age guidance 12+
This talk will show the connections between people, mammoths and other Ice Age animals during prehistory, focussing on the lives of the people, their tools and their remains and those of the animals that have been recovered during archaeological excavations in Welsh caves.
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Meet our Mammoth
Thursdays 14 and 28 August; 12pm
Pay what you can; age guidance 7+
Learn more about mammoths in general, the story of how the new mammoth came to be preserved and how it made its way to our museum – twice! Plus see some mammoth fossils and casts from the museum’s collections.
Family paint along – mammoth and baby
Thursday 21 August, 3pm
£13 per person; age guidance 6+
Local artist Rachel Rasmussen will help you unleash your inner creative side and join us to put your own spin on recreating a family painting from our art collection.
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St Fagans National Museum of History, Cardiff
FREE Wales is… talking about empire
Artist Nasia Sawar-Skuse explores representation in Wales and marginalised histories in a series of interventions across the museum’s site. Featuring a recreated living room, to evoke conversations about memories, migration, and what empire means today. Within the installation sits the sofa of Robert Clive (1725-74) known as Clive of India.
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FREE Wales is…for her
Until Tuesday 30 December 2025
Explore the journey of women’s football in Wales, from a 50-year ban and lack of funding to its recent rise in popularity against all odds, attracting record crowds and inspiring young girls across the country to support and play the game. Created in partnership with the Welsh Football Collection, Wrexham County Borough Museum and the Football Association of Wales.
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Meet the Celt
Monday 4-Friday 8 August, 11am, 12pm, 2pm, 3pm (Welsh)
£6; must be booked in advance
Step back in time and discover life in the Iron Age in this interactive Meet the Celt sessions in Bryn Eryr, the Iron Age farmstead. Learn fascinating facts about the Celts, handle replica artefacts, and get a feel for ancient life. There’s also a chance to snap a photo posing with objects like shields and spears!
St Fagans Art Cart
Monday 4-Friday 8 August: Celts
Monday 11-Friday 15 August: Medieval
Monday 18-Friday 22 August: Tudor
Monday 25-Friday 29 August: Victorian
10.30am-3pm; £4; age guidance 3+
Themed craft activities inspired by the buildings and collections at St Fagans.
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Explore the Medieval Court
Monday 11-Friday 15 August, 11am, 12pm, 2pm, 3pm (Welsh)
£6, age guidance 3+
Explore the fascinating world of medieval Wales in Llys Llywelyn, the Medieval Princes Court, where a costumed guide will bring the past to life with stories of courtly traditions, food, and manners. Get hands-on with replica artefacts and experience what daily life was like for Welsh princes and their guests. Perfect for families, this interactive session offers a fun and engaging experience in a grand and historic setting.
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Meet the Tudor
Monday18-Friday 22 August, 11am, 12pm, 2pm, 3pm (Welsh)
£6, age guidance 3+
Discover what daily life was like in the Tudor period at St Teilo’s Church. Explore the outfits people wore, the social side of worship, and the meaning behind the colourful paintings on the church walls. You’ll handle replica artefacts and learn about some of the customs and traditions of the Tudor era.
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Meet the Victorian
Monday 26-Friday 29 August, 11am, 12pm, 2pm, 3pm (Welsh)
£6, age guidance 3+
Discover what daily life was like for children in Victorian Wales at the Maestir schoolroom where you’ll meet the schoolteacher and explore the strict routines, repetitive lessons, and behavioural customs of Victorian education, bringing to life the rules, rewards, and punishments that shaped the daily experience of pupils.
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Big Pit National Coal Museum, Blaenavon
FREE Signals
Until Sunday 31 August
Signals explores how movements of the past exist in international solidarity with movements today. Considering the collection, conversations and community of Big Pit, with an anti-colonial, anti-capitalist and ecological lens, and Wales’ history of mining and strike, and resource extraction and labour movements worldwide today.
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FREE More to Life than Work – Boxing
Monday 21 and Tuesday 22 July, 11am-3pm
Explore the hobbies, past-times and sports of mining communities and make your very boxing belt inspired by Wales’ boxing champions.
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FREE More to Life than Work – Pin the tail on the Colliery Horse
Mondays and Tuesdays 28 and 29 July, and 4 and 5 August, 11am-3pm
Explore the hobbies, past-times and sports of mining communities and create your very own ‘pin the tail on the colliery horse’ game, inspired by the 2 weeks that a Welsh Colliery Horse would spend on the surface each year during the Miners’ Fortnight.
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FREE More to Life than Work – Wrestling
Monday 11 and Tuesday 12 August , 11am-3pm
Explore the hobbies, past-times and sports of mining communities – get creative and design and craft a wrestlers’ mask.
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FREE More to Life than Work – Jazz Bands
Monday 18 and Tuesday 19 August, 11am-3pm
Discover the history and sounds of jazz bands in the Welsh coalfields and construct a kazoo inspired by them.
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FREE More to Life than Work – Pigeon Racing
Tuesday 26 and Wednesday 27 August 2025, 11am-3pm
Explore the pigeon racing pastime of Welsh miners and construct paper pigeons to race.
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FREE Butty Bear
Mondays and Tuesdays 21, 22, 28m, 29 July; 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19 and Tuesday 26, Wednesday 27 11.30am and 2pm
Big Pit’s bear mascot will be appearing throughout the summer at Big Pit, come along and have a selfie.
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National Roman Legion Museum, Caerleon
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FREE A Frontier in Depth
Until Friday 1 August
A Frontier in Depth investigates how shifting boundaries influence our understanding of identity and place. A series of films and ceramics, embodying reflections on the past, present and future.
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FREE Meet a Roman Soldier
Monday 21-Saturday 26 July, 11am-1pm & 2pm-4pm
Chat to a Roman soldier and find out more about the life of a Roman soldier in Isca. Learn more about the many roles within the Roman military, from archers and cavalry troopers to scouts, and find out more about where some of the soldiers stationed in Isca (Caerleon) may have come from. Free drop in sessions; no need to book.
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FREE Quiet Days
Sundays 27 July, 24 August and 21 September 2025, 10am-4pm
Explore the museum during Quiet Hour, where certain barriers including noise and bright lights will be taken away, providing an environment that is inclusive, calm and safe for people to explore. Sensory packs included.
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Roman Boot Camp
Monday 28-Wednesday 30 July, 10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm. 2.30pm
£3 per person or £10 group of four; book in advance
Experience life as a member of the Second Augustan Legion. Meet a Centurion, take a look at some armour, weapons and military equipment from the Roman army and find out what life was like for a Roman soldier on the edge of the empire. There will also be an opportunity to try on Roman armour and learn to march with the Centurion using Latin commands.
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FREE Party Like A Roman
Saturday 2 August, 10am-5pm
A full day of celebrations to mark the 175h anniversary of the museum. Activities include Roman soldiers, gladiator training, cookery demonstrations, crafts and games, Roman makeover, a dig pit, tours talks and more. Free entry; book in advance for a chance to win a Roman goodie bag.
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Gladiators
Wednesdays 6 and 13, Saturday 16, Wednesdays 20 and 27 August, 10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm
£3 per child
2000 years ago Gladiators were some of the biggest sports stars in the Roman Empire. They were both loved and hated and watched by people from all parts of Roman society, including the soldiers in Caerleon. This summer, children can visit the museum’s ludus, a gladiator training school where gladiators will train you to fight and tell you about the equipment and lives of these impressive warriors.
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FREE Hands-on-the-past
Thursdays 7, 14, 21 and 28 August, 10.30am-12.30pm and 1.30pm-3.30pm
Find out about family life in the fortress and handle some real Roman objects. Drop in sessions – no need to book.
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FREE Roman Soldier in the Barrack Room
Saturdays 9, 23 and 30 August, 11am-1pm and 2pm-4pm
Chat to a Roman soldier in the Barrack Room to find out more about the life of a Roman soldier in Isca, as try on some replica armour.
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FREE Summer at the Senedd
Senedd, Cardiff Bay
Saturday 19 July-Sunday 31 August
Book a guided tour and learn more about the work of the Welsh Parliament, the building’s landmark architecture and the history of Cardiff Bay. Children aged 5 to 12 can also pick up a free activity journal to help them explore.
The play area, filed with toys and a large map of Wales to explore, is open all year round, plus there’s free craft activities and Postcards from the Future – a chance to let the Senedd Equality and Social Justice Committee know what you think life will be like in Wales in the future.
Plus pay a visit to two new exhibitions. Wanderlust (until Thursday 28 August) shows the rich, vibrant culture of Gypsy and Traveller communities through powerful photography and poetry, while Rooted in our Dhaqan (Tuesday 22 July-Monday 1 September)is a powerful tribute to the strength, resilience, and beauty of Somali heritage. Monday 25 August (10.30am-12pm) will see a poetry and creative writing workshop to empower young people and develop their creativity. Age guidance 11+; no need to book.
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Museum of Cardiff, Old Library, The Hayes, Cardiff
FREE The Grimwood Museum Adventure
Saturday 2-Saturday 30 August, 10am-4pm (the museum is closed on Sundays)
A brilliantly bonkers museum trail to celebrate the release of Rock the Vote!, the fifth book in the anarchic comedy-adventure series Grimwood, by bestselling author-illustrator Nadia Shireen. Spot Grimwood characters hiding around the museum, elect a new Mayor of Grimwood and design them their very own campaign poster. Complete the trail and get a free Grimwood sticker.
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FREE Dinky Dragons
Friday 8 August, 10am-3pm
A free monthly event for babies, toddlers and their grown ups. Drop in for soft play, messy play, with rhyme and story time at 11am and 1pm.
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The Royal Mint Experience, Llantrisant
FREE Car Show and Urban Markets
Saturday 26 July, 10am-3pm
Experience an impressive display of cars from vintage to supercars, browse a great selection of local food and crafts, all to the tune of party games and great music from Kelly’s Mascots. Free entry, no need to book.
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An Introduction to Beekeeping
Monday 4 and 11 August
£10 per person
A hands-on experience gives you a close-up look at the amazing lives of bees, from spotting the queen to spinning honey. Enjoy this event for FREE when going on a Royal Mint Experience Tour on the same day.
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Animal Encounters
Wednesday 6 and Thursday 7 August
£10 per person
Get up close and personal with a range of wonderful creatures, while learning about their natural habitats and how you can play your part in ensuring their preservation. Enjoy this event for FREE when going on a Royal Mint Experience Tour on the same day.
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Storytime With The Whimsicals
Tuesday 19 and Wednesday 20 August
£7.50 per child
Meet the Whimsicals! Curious and cheeky fantasy creatures who love a good story. Join them through the day to for enchanting stories of dragons, fairies and magic, followed by meet and greets. Age guidance 3+.
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Bricks McGee: Railway 200 Bricks Workshop
Tuesday 26 and Wednesday 27 August
£10 per person
A special Railway 200 masterclass activity where you can build your own LEGO wagon and help create a giant track with a master LEGO builder! A fun and interactive experience for all ages to celebrate 200 years of the modern railway. Enjoy this event for FREE when going on a Royal Mint Experience Tour on the same day.
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BBC Cymru Wales, Central Square Cardiff
Thursday to Sunday, 10.30am, 12.30pm, 3pm
Adults £15, children £12, family £42; age guidance 7+
A behind the scenes look at the BBC’s newest and most advanced studios. Visit the state-of-the-art television and radio studios to discover the secrets of making a BBC programme, see the BBC newsrooms, packed with cutting-edge technology including augmented reality, virtual reality and robotic cameras, take a sneak peek at TV galleries and other broadcast facilities, and lots more.
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Events at castles
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Caerleon Roman Baths
Saturday 19 July- Sunday 31 Aug, 10am-4pm
Adults £5.80, children 5-17 £4, under 5s free, family £18.70 or free for Cadw members
The Romans had a god for everything , making strange offerings and curses to place in the shrines, hoping for help with battles, parties, healing, or even revenge. The summer trail at the Roman Baths will help children discover which god could help with your biggest wishes. Included in usual admission.
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Chepstow Castle
Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 July, 10am-4pm
Adults £10.50, children 5-17 £7.30, under 5s free, family £33.60 or free for Cadw members
Witness a variety of birds of prey in flight and discover their role in medieval falconry.
Additional charges apply for supervised handling and photos.#
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Tintern Abbey
Adults £9.40, children 5-17 £6.50, under 5s free, family £30.20 or free for Cadw members
Saturdays 19 July and 2 August, 10.30am-4.30pm
Learn what life was like as a monk in Tintern Abbey, including monastic duties, hygiene and eating habits, as well as the numerous religious services they would have to attend throughout the day.
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Tretower Court and Castle, Crickhowell
Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 July, 11am-4pm
Adults £10.50, children 5-17 £7.30, under 5s free, family £33.60 or free for Cadw members
Experience life in the 17th century – what did people eat and how did they entertain themselves.
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Chepstow Castle
Adults £10.50, children 5-17 £7.30, under 5s free, family £33.60 or free for Cadw members
Let’s Discover… Chainmail – Tuesday 22 July
Let’s Discover… Medieval Weapons – Tuesday 29 July
Let’s Discover… Medieval Warfare – Tuesday 5 August
Let’s Discover… The Printed Word – Tuesday 12 August
Let’s Discover… Willow – Tuesday 19 August
Let’s Discover… Herbs and Heritage – Tuesday 26 August
A series of hands-on events that will help children learn more about different aspects of history.
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Chepstow Castle
Wednesdays 23 and 30 July, 6, 13, 20, 27 August, 10am-4pm
Adults £10.50, children 5-17 £7.30, under 5s free, family £33.60 or free for Cadw members
Drop in craft sessions where children can make something to play with in the castle and the take home.
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Chepstow Castle
Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 July, 10am-4pm
Adults £10.50, children 5-17 £7.30, under 5s free, family £33.60 or free for Cadw members
Learn about the evolution of dance, from the medieval farandole to the French court dances of the 17th century. With demonstrations and audience participation workshops throughout the weekend, this is a fun and interactive event for the whole family.
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A Blast From The Past: Family Fun Weekend
Blaenavon Ironworks
Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 July, 10.30am-4.30pm
Adults £8, cjildren 5-17 £5.60, under 5s free, family £25.80, free for Cadw members
Experience some old fashioned fun and traditional entertainment for all the family with a Punch & Judy, juggling and other activities.
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Tretower Court and Castle
Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 July, 10.30am-4.30pm
Adults £10.50, children 5-17 £7.30, under 5s free, family £33.60 or free for Cadw members
Dance group Renaissance Footnotes will entertain with the etiquette, music, and dances of the 15th and 17th century as well as teaching a medieval step or two.
Raglan Castle
Wednesdays 30 July, 6, 13 and 20 August, 11am-4pm
Adults £10.50, children 5-17 £7.30, under 5s free, family £33.60 or free for Cadw members
Raptor Wales visit the castle with their birds of prey. Meet the birds and enjoy their flying displays.
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Chepstow Castle
Saturday 2-Sunday 3 August, 10am-4pm
Adults £10.50, children 5-17 £7.30, under 5s free, family £33.60 or free for Cadw members
Chepstow Castle is under attack from the forces of Parliament. Experience the hustle and bustle of life during the English Civil War, with soldiers on guard and civilians helping to keep the castle safe and tended.
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Tretower Court and Castle
Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 August, 10.30am-4.30pm
Adults £10.50, children 5-17 £7.30, under 5s free, family £33.60 or free for Cadw members
The Medieval Combat Society bring the 14th century to life, with armour and weapons, medieval cooking, and crafts, as well as cheering on your favourite knight.
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Tretower Cour and Castle
Thursdays 7, 14, 21, 28 August, 10.30am-4.15pm
Adults £10.50, children £7.30, under 5s free, family £33.60, or free for Cadw members
Join Usk Astronomical Society with the state-of-the-art Bannau Brycheiniog Planetarium, for a fascinating and fully immersive trip around the solar system.
Planetarium shows are included in admission price but must be booked in advance due to limited availability. Various time slots available. Age guidance 5+.
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Tintern Abbey
Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 August, 10am-4pm
Adults £10.50, children 5-17 £7.30, under 5s free, family £33.60 or free for Cadw members
Learn how the Tudors used birds of prey and why falconry was the most popular sport of the day, and how birds of prey live.
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Blaenafon Ironworks
Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 August, 11am-4pm
Adults £8, children 5-17 £5.60, under 5s free, family £25.80 or free for Cadw members
Living history, weaponry displays, a military hospital and demonstrations, plus storytelling for all the family.
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Tretower Court and Castle
Sunday 10 and Monday 11 August
Adults £10.50, children 5-17 £7.30, under 5s free, family £33.60 or free for Cadw members
Learn all about the history of hawking and see bird of prey in flight.
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Tretower Court and Castle
Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 August, 11am-4pm
Adults £10.50, children 5-17 £7.30, under 5s free, family £33.60 or free for Cadw members
Experience Tretower’s heyday as a living history group depict life in the 15th century. Discover interesting facts about life in the Middle Ages, from what they ate to how often they practiced their archery.
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Tintern Abbey
Saturday 23-Monday 25 August, 10.30am-5pm
Adults £9.40, children 5-17 £6.50, under 5s free, family £30.20 or free for Cadw members
William Marshal and his wife, Isabel, visit Tintern for the 801st anniversary of her death. living history, medieval re-enactment, music and horse displays transport the abbey back to its earliest days, to honour the life of Earl William Marshal, one of Tintern Abbey’s greatest patrons, and his influential wife Isabel.
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Raglan Castle
Sunday 24 and Monday 25 August, 11am-4.30pm
Adults £10.50, children 5-17 £7.30, under 5s free, family £33.60, free for Cadw members
A multi-historical period weekend of living history, with groups from many eras going about their daily lives. See re-enactments and displays, wander the camps, and immerse yourself in times past.
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Resting at the Abbey during the Wars of the Roses 1471
Tintern Abbey
Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 August, 10.30am-4pm
Adults £9.40, children 5-17 £6.50, under 5s free, family £30.20 or free for Cadw members
Experience life in 1471, as a company of Archers and their families set up camp in the grounds of the Abbey and continue to practice their civilian skills such as fletching, spinning, dyeing, and more. You can also try your hand at medieval board and dice games, or braid making. Watch the cooks prepare the company’s meal, question the arrow-smith and bowyer on their skills and kills.
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Festivals and fun days
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FREE Big Splash Festival
Newport
Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 July
Wales’ largest free outdoor arts festival brings live music, street theatre, dance performances, workshops, crafts and activities for all the family to the streets of Newport with a full programme of activities.
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FREE Vale Nature Festival
Cosmeston Lakes Country Park, Penarth
Saturday 19 July, 11am-4pm
A free family-friendly day celebrating all things nature in the Vale. Find out ways to get involved in helping nature on your doorstep with interactive stalls from local organisations and groups, take part in citizen science, experience live storytelling, explore hands-on activities, creative crafts and more. Organisatons and community groups attending include Beach Academy wakes, Butterfly Conservation Trust, Glamorgan Hedgehog Rescue, RSPB, Wildlife Trust South and West Wales and lots more. Free event but car parking charges will apply.
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Margam Country Park
Sunday 20 July, 10am-5pm
Adults £18.77, children £16.1, family £56.20 (advance tickets; more on the door)
Meet your favourite characters including PAW Patrol’s Chase and Skye, Hey Duggee and Fireman Sam, as well as live shows and performances, dancing, singing, photo opportunities and lots more.
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Romilly Park, Barry
Friday 25 July
£17.50, under 3s free, family pass £55
Barry’s Glastonbarry tribute festival kicks off with a day especially for families, with tribute bands and entertainment perfect for all ages. Highlights will include performances from tribute acts to Taylor Swift, Katy Perry and Harry Styles, plus rides and stalls, mascots, magic shows, workshops a gaming zone and more.
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Cardiff Castle
Saturday 26 July
Adults and children 13+ £66.65, 5-12 year olds £28, 5 and unders £16.80
Jess Glynne, Maximo Park, Sigma, Kate Nash, Professor Green and Goldie Lookin Chain are among the lineup as Depot in the Castle returns for its seventh year. As well as the headliners, festival-goers can experience a range of family entertainment and activities, plus dishes from local street food vendors.
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The Bear Field, Cowbridge
Saturday 2 August
Adults £18.59, children 5-15 £15.87, under 5s £6.13 H from Steps, Claire Sweeney and Owain Wyn Evans host a family-friendly festival day with tributes to Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, Sabrina Carpenter, Harry Styles, Olivia Rodrigo, ABBA, Kylie, Take That, Spice Girls, One Direction, and loads more. Plus there will be a family foam party, junior club rave, circus performers, meet and greet with Bluey, Paw Patrol, pirates and fairies and lots more. Selling fast – limited availability.
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St Donats Castle, Vale of Glamorgan
Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 August
Adults £10 plus booking fee, kids free Street Food circus is back with a weekend of feasting, family and festival vibes by the sea. Dine on global street food from local favourites including Fire & Flank, El Cabrón Tacos, Kerelan Karavan Church of Churros, Two Lads Kitchen, and more. Plus there’s plenty of entertainment including Mexican wrestling, Chris Bullzini High Wire, Canine Circus, Big Bubble Disco, Let’s Make Art, axe throwing, a roller disco, DJ Yoda’s 80s Mixtape Party on the Saturday night and lots more.
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Vale of Glamorgan Agricultural Show
Penllyn, Cowbridge
Wednesday 13 August
Adults £17.50, children £5, family £40 (2+2)
With over 20,000 visitors each year, the Vale of Glamorgan Agricultural Show is the largest one day event in the Vale of Glamorgan. The day features livestock and horse showing, with over 200 trade stands on the main field, a food court selling produce, most of which has been grown or made in the Vale, along with a shopping mall and craft fair.
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FREE Family Fun Day
Ffos Caerphilly
Every Thursday of the school holidays, 10am-4pm
A day packed with activities, laughter, and great food with exciting sessions and workshops, tasty treats from the food vendors all perfect for families.
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Margam Country Park, Port Talbot
Monday 25 August, 10am-5pm
Adults £18.77, children £16.10, under 2s free, family £43.37
Meet Epico, one of the UK’s largest animatronic dragons, take part in circus skills workshops, enjoy live performances, and experience Margam International Kite Festival. Storytelling and gentle dragon encounters for younger children, fire shows and roaming characters across the park, plus food stalls and bar.
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Family fun
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Pontypridd
Free for children under 16, adults £3, activity passes £2.50 per person
The National Lido of Wales features three pools – a main pool, an activity pool and a splash pool. For £2.50 per person, visitors can also enjoy everything from fun inflatables to Aqua Peddlerz and Water Walker. For smaller visitors, the splash pool is complete with an umbrella water fountain. They can bring their buckets and watering cans and play in the warm water in this safe and happy environment. Sessions do sell out in advance, so there will ow be limited availability.
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Roath Lake, Cardiff
Open daily 12pm, last 30 minute hires at 6.15pm
£10.30 for half an hour, £18.50 for one hour
Hire a pedalo and paddle your way around Roath Lake, a unique way to see the iconic lighthouse, plus explore the rest of the grade one listed park – playground, ice cream van, cafe, flower gardens, and more. May close in case of bad weather.
You can also head to the conservatory to see the huge goldfish, turtles, ducks and plants living in the tropical heat. Adults £2.50, children £1.25, under 5s free (season tickets available). Summer opening 10.30am-4pm.
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Victoria Park, Cardiff
Daily until Sunday 1 September, 10am-6.45pm weekends, 11am-6.45pm weekdays
The splash pad in Victoria Park opens ready for half term, with 33 exciting features for children to enjoy. Relaxed session for children with additional needs 10am-11am.
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St Fagans National Museum of History, Cardiff
Daily until Sunday 31 August, 10.15am, 11.30am, 12.45pm, 3pm, 4.15pm, £15 per person
Tackle CoedLan’s 18 obstacles, including a balance beam, zig zag bridge, cargo net and a zip wire. No need to book in advance – buy your tickets in advance or on the day from the reception desk on a first come, first served basis.
Participants must be 110cm tall and aged 6 or over in order to take part. Children between 110cm and 130cm must be accompanied by an individual over 130cm and aged 12 years old or over. The maximum weight is 18 stone.
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Celtic Manor Resort, Newport
Saturday 19 July-Sunday 31 August
A wide range of craft-based and adventurous activities for families. Must be booked online in advance. Age and height restrictions apply.
Forest Nets – £20 per person (age 3+)
Low Ropes – £20 per person (minimum height 1.2m)
High ropes – £30 per person (minimum height 1.4m)
Laser Combat – £20 per person (age 6+)
All Bounced Out – £20 per person (6-15 years)
Archery – £20 per person (6+years)
Axe throwing – £20 per person (10+years)
Ocean Arts and Crafts – £12 per person
Under The Sea crafts – £12 per person
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FREE Ohana Funday
Mermaid Quay
Saturday 26 July, 11am-4pm
A fun-filled family day with colourful entertainment, creative workshops and character encounters – all for free. Inspired by island vibes, cheeky aliens and the spirit of togetherness, the event will feature appearances from a bright blue alien mascot character who’ll be making surprise visits throughout the day, accompanied by a costumed guide bringing plenty of playful energy to the square. Families can enjoy interactive activities including a costumed face painter offering Ohana-themed designs, a glitter tattooist with sparkly, tropical tattoos, and a balloon modeller creating character-inspired creations to take home.
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Roald Dahl Pass, Cardiff Bay
Saturday 19 July-Monday 26 August
Cardiff Bay Family Fun Park returns for summer 2025. Get ready for favourite rides, such as the dodgems, Funhouse, Runaway Train, Water Walkers, and Sea Storm, as well as rides for smaller children too and game stalls with a chance to win massive cuddly toy prizes. A packed programme of free family entertainment will include magic shows, princess sing-a-longs, character meet and greets, and more, as well as food stalls with sweet and savoury treats.
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FREE Urban Beach
John Frost Square, Newport
Friday 1-Sunday 31 August, 9am-5pm
Beach area featuring giant deck chairs, peep-through board and sounds of the sea.
First and final hours of the day are designated ‘quiet hours.
Pop-up Park
From Thursday 24 July
Near the Wave and The Riverfront
With picnic tables and benches.
Giant Chair Trail
Thursday 31 July-Wednesday 10 September
From the Riverfront to Friars Walk
Monster Trail
Friday 1 August-Wednesday 10 September
Linked to the Newport Now app, collect monsters at each venue and get a free story book from Central Library.
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Science workshops from Experimental Science
The Red Dragon Centre, Cardiff Bay
£11.50 per person
Experimental Science will once again be hosting their popular fun and interactive science workshops.
Dino World Mystery, Thursday 31 July (10am, 11.30am and 1pm)
An immersive workshop where young adventurers aged 4+ become dinosaur detectives. Uncover clues, solve prehistoric puzzles, and use dino-logic to crack the case of who attacked the mighty Brachiosaurus.
The Great Chocolate Robbery Thursday 14 August (10am, 11.30am and 1pm)
This interactive forensic science workshop will see young detectives aged 4+ crack a delicious mystery. Kids will use real investigative techniques like chemical testing, footprint tracking, and fingerprint matching to solve the case of the missing chocolate recipe.
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St David’s Dewi Sant shopping centre, Cardiff
Daily 11am-10pm
Adults from £11.50, children (5 and under) £5.25, family of 4 £36.70
Treetop Adventure Golf is home to two 18-hole mini golf courses where the whole family can test out their putting skills. Plus, free face painting every weekend, and quiet sessions Wednesdays 9-10.30am, new Jungle Shakes and freshly-made pizza.
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FREE Kids’ Meet & Greet
St David’s Centre, Cardiff
Bluey and Bingo – Thursday 24 July
Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse – Thursday 31 July
Hey Duggee – Thursday 7 August
Paddington – Thursday 14 August
Chase and Skye from Paw Patrol – Thursday 21 August
Peppa Pig, Mummy Pig, and Baby Evie – Thursday 28 August
Little ones have the chance to meet favourite characters at St David’s Cardiff, from Paddington to Peppa Pig and more. The events are free limited tickets available; sign up via the website to find out when they are available.
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Parc Play, Cardiff
Open daily
Adults £2, under 1s £3.95 or free with an older sibling, ages 1-3 £7.95, ages 4-12 £9.95
All the usual indoor and outdoor play. Book in advance for a two-hour session.
Monday 21 July – Parc’s Birthday Party – DJ, party games, facepainting, balloon modelling
Monday 28 July – Pirates vs Princess Party – games, sing-along, treasure hunts, bubbles, dressing up encouraged.
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Cardiff Theatre Café, Roath
Wednesday 23 July, 4pm-6pm
£11.55 – each adult entry includes one free child
A Minecraft-themed party with a bouncy castle, fun photo props, snacks and refreshments and more.
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Techniquest, Cardiff Bay
Saturday 19 July-Sunday 31 August
Adults £14, children 3-15 £12, under 3s free, family £48
As well as more than 100 hands-on science exhibits, choose from planetarium shows, live science shows or creative workshops at an additional cost.
Star Tours – Planetarium Show
Ages 7+; £2.50 per person
Find out more about some familiar constellations, the planets, how stars are born and how they die as the digital planetarium takes you through space for a close-up look at some of nature’s most beautiful sights such as distant galaxies and exploded stars.
We are Aliens – Planetarium Show
Ages 5+; £2.50 per person
Embark on an epic space adventure in the search for signs of extraterrestrial life. Narrated by Harry Potter star Rupert Grint, this thrilling film delves into the question of whether humanity could one day join a galactic community.
Brilliantly Bad Ideas – Live science show
Ages 5+; £3.50 per person
Step into a world of wild inventions, daring experiments, and gloriously terrible ideas — inspired by Wallace & Gromit. From flying teabags to fiery calamities, Brilliantly Bad Ideas is packed with chaotic comedy and real experiments, all performed live in the science theatre.
Summer of Invention
Bring Wallace & Gromit to life in 3D with the All Systems Go AR trail. The app is free to download and the trail is included with your Techniquest general admission ticket.
Gromit Claystation Workshop
Ages 5+; £5 per kit
Hands-on Gromit model-making session. Get creative with clay and make your very own Gromit to take home with you.
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FREE Pop up planetarium
Newport Museum and Art Gallery
Thursday 7 and Friday 8 August, 9.30am-4:15pm
A series of free 360° mobile planetarium show. Travel back in time and fly with dinosaurs, explore climate driven phenomena occurring on planet Earth, hunt for life in our solar system and beyond or immerse yourself in an astronomer guided tour of the night sky. Spaces are limited; booking in advance is essential.
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FREE PokeCon Day
The Red Dragon Centre, Cardiff
Bank Holiday Monday 25 August, 11am-5pm
Explore a pop-up packed with merch, trading cards, and collectibles, perfect for fans, collectors, and Trainers of all ages. You can also take on the Brick Your Buddy Challenge, running from 12pm-4pm. Build your favourite battle buddy from bricks, snap a photo, and tag #BrickYourBuddy for the chance to win exclusive merch and cinema tickets.
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Arts and crafts
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Insole Court, Cardiff
Wednesday 23 July, Friday 15 August, Wednesday 27 August 10am-1pm
Pay what you can
Get creative with painting, gluing, and crafty adventures designed to spark imagination and celebrate the season. Ideal for ages four to 10.
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Museum of Cardiff, Old Library, The Hayes, Cardiff
Wednesdays 23 and 30 July, 6, 13, 20, 17 August, 11am-3pm
Free creative and crafty fun for all the family.
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Bryngarw House and Country Park, Bridgend
Tuesday 22 July – The Wonky Donkey
Thursday 24 July – Wat The Ladybird Heard
Tuesday 29 July – Once Upon A Fairytale
Thursday 31 July -Snail in Space
Tuesday 5 August – The Tooth Fairy and the Crocodile
Thursday 7 August – Little Monsters
Tuesday 12 August – Supertato Bubbly Troubly
Thursday 14 August – The Dinosaur that Pooped a Planet
Tuesday 19 August -The Oak Tree
Thursday 21 August – We’re Going On A Bear Hunt
Tuesday 26 August = The Very Hungry Caterpillar
Thursday 28 August – This Rock Is Mine
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Farm Parks
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Cantref Adventure Farm, Brecon
Saturday 19 July-Sunday 31 August
Adults and children over 93cm £17.94, child undre 93cm £8.97 (when booked in advance online; more expensive on the door)
As well as all the usual farm animals and indoor/outdoor play, there’s a daily foam party and meet spirit the unicorn (19-25 July and 2-8 August); meet Blue the velociraptor (26 July-1 August and 9-15 August; slip and slide and water fight (16-31 August).
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The Meadows Wildlife Park, Groeswen, Cardiff
Every Friday of the holidays
£50 per person, ages 8-16
Hands-on sessions perfect for young animal lovers who want to learn more about wildlife,
conservation, and what it’s really like to work in a zoo. Plus the farm is open daily for all the usual farm fun.
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Amelia Trust Farm, Barry
Feel Good Friday – Friday 25 July
£7.50 per person 2+ when booked in advance, £8.70 on the door
Spend time going back to the basics – enjoying playing outside, seeing animals, exploring the woods, and chatting to friends and family.
Dog Show – Saturday 2 August
£4 per dog per category, £5 per person age 2+ online, £6 on the door
Dogs of all shapes and sizes are welcome to enter as many categories as you’d like, and we’ll be selecting a winner and runner up for each.
Fluffy Friends – Thursday 7 August
£8.50 in advance, £9.50 on the door
Meet the rabbits, guinea pigs, and ferrets plus get creative in the craft room and enjoy fun story time with Barry Library.
Bee Happy Day – Tuesday 12 August
£.7.50 in advance, £8.70 on the door
Meet the small animals, crafts and stories, face paints, talks about different types of bees and beekeeping, plus taste local honey.
Nature Day – Thursday 21 August
£.7.50 in advance, £8.70 on the door
Learn more about the small animals, join in guided woodland walks, meet Caerphilly Hedgehog Rescue, crafts, stories and lots more.
Teddy Bears’ Picnic – Friday 29 August
£8.50 in advance, £9.50 on the door
Bring your favourite teddies for a teddy bear health check, plus tractor rides, colouring station, lawn games and sunflower trail.
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Outdoor attractions
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FREE Wings of Wales
Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoir
Saturday 19 July, 10am-3pm
A falconry experience from Wings of Wales, with flying displays at 12pm and 2pm, educational talks and a chance to get up close and personal with the raptors.
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Half term family trail and adventure
Mountain View Ranch
Saturday 19 July-Sunday 31 August
£10 per person aged 2+
Join the Ranch family adventure trail, including the famous Gruffalo trail. Explore and discover all these and much, much more; two jumping pillows, guinea pigs, pygmy goats, ponies, straw bale obstacle course, soft archery, double zip wire, fairy forest, roly poly hill, tree houses, The Vomit Comet, The Big Big Swing, Hobbit Hill, and of course The Gruffalo. Tickets must be booked in advance.
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Newport Wetlands
Selected dates from Monday 21 July-Wednesday 27 August, 11.30am-1.30pm
The flower-rich verges and grasslands at the Wetlands provide habitat for a wide variety of insects, including grasshoppers, beetles, true bugs and spiders. Join in a special mission to build the best home for the extraordinary bugs and beetles at Newport Wetlands.
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Cwmcarn Visitors Centre
Tuesday 22 July, 11am
Adults £21, children 15 and under £11
Learn how to sketch Cwmcarn’s wildlife and experiment with watercolour painting.
Dyffryn Gardens, Vale of Glamorgan
Saturday 19 July-Sunday 31 August 10am-6pm
Adults £14.30, children 5-17 £7.20, under 5s free, family £35.80 or free for National Trust members
Family-friendly games and sports will be dotted around he gardens to help families get outdoors and play together this summer. Try your hand at the hurdles, table tennis, archery and more.
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Tredegar House, Newport
Saturday 19 July-Sunday 31 August 10am-6pm
Adults £14.30, children 5-17 £7.20, under 5s free, family £35.80 or free for National Trust members
Family-friendly activities filled with holiday adventure and nostalgia, from play stories in the stable courtyard and a giant sandpit to colourful beach huts for make-believe play, and a sensory tent capturing the calming spirit of the sea.
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FREE Summer of Play
Aberdulais Falls, Neath
Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 24 July-30 August
Get crafty with indoor and outdoor crafts, move and run with outdoor games such as quoits, skittles and beanbag toss, and make-believe with a dressing-up box filled with Aberdulais-themed costumes.
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Aberdulais Falls
Thursday 24-Saturday 26 July, 10.30am-3.30pm
Children can play at being an archaeologist with special trays full of finds to uncover, as well as completing the Heritage Explorer Challenge Trail, learning how to identify historical features and how important they are to Aberdulais’ past as a thriving site of industry. Get dressed up as a tin worker, plus make and take home an archaeology-themed craft.
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FREE Alice
Insole Court, Cardiff
Saturday 19 July, 1pm-4pm
An afternoon of music, fun and good food as Technicolour Choir entertain visitors to Insole Court. Bring a picnic blanket, collect your booked Mad Hatter’s picnic box and drink and prepare to be entertained! Tickets are free but donations to the Insole Cour Trust are welcome.
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Margam Park, Port Talbot
A full programme of activities throughout the summer, from arts and crafts to dino world mysteries, have a go archery, deer park walks and lots more. See website for full listings. Lots of the events are free; some have a small charge. Entry to Margam Park is free; pay for parking.
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Fonmon Castle, Vale of Glamorgan
Adults £12, children £10, under 3s free.
Dino Weekend – Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 July
Pirates Vs Fairies – Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 July
Ice Princeses – Saturday 2 and Sunday 2 August
Film Weekend – Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 August
Weekend at Oz – Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 August
Superheroes Weekend – Saturday 23-Monday 25 August
Themed entertainment and mascots, as well as the usual attractions – dinosaur trail, story trail, woodland walks, play areas and more.
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Sunflower Patch and Maize and summer activities
Clearwell Farm, Michaelston-y-Fedw
From Thursday 7 August, 10am-4pm, Tuesdays to Sundays
Sunset maze and sunflower bar, Thursdays to Sundays 6pm-10.30pm
Daily activities include hay bale tower, maize maze, sunflower patch, welly wanging, carnival games and more.
Bumble and Bee: The Pollination Tour Friday 8 and Wednesday 27 August
Super Saturday/Super Sunday – the Clearwell Farm Olynpics
Sunday 10, Saturday 16, Sunday 24 and Sunday 31 August
Craft Corner Wednesdays 13 and 20, and Thursday 28 August, 11am-2pm
Superhero day Sunday 17 August
Dinosaur Day Thursday 21 August
Circus Workshops Saturday 23 August
Disney Princess Day Saturday 30 August
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Bryngarw House and Country Park, Bridgend
Nature Journaling – Wednesday 23 July
Pond Dipping – Wednesday 30 July
Mighty Moths – Wednesday 6 August
Insect Walk – Wednesday 13 August
Minibeast Hunt – Wednesday 20 August
Bird Watching – Wednesday 27 August
From £4; book in advance.
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Heath Park Model Railway, Heath Park, Cardiff
Sundays 30 July, 3 and 24 August and Monday 25 August 1pm-5pm
Entry £2.80 per person, rides £2.80 (under 3s free)
Cardiff Model Engineering Society opens its doors to the public with miniature train rides – steam, diesel and electric – plus tram rides.
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Cinema
The focus here is on independent cinemas, film-related events, and cheaper family screenings rather than the current big releases at the multiplexes.
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Cineworld, Mary Ann Street, Cardiff
The 10am weekend and school holiday Movies for Juniors showings are £3.99 per person. Check online for schedule; films are usually a few months old rather than new releases.
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Vue Cinema, Millennium Plaza, Cardiff
The 10am weekend and school holiday Mighty Mornings showings are just £2.49 per person when booked online or £3.49 on the door. Check online for schedule; films are usually a few months old rather than new releases.
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Memo Arts Centre, Barry
Family films at £6 for adults, £5 concessions
How To Train Your Dragon (PG) and F1 (12A)
Monday 21-Thursday 24 July
Lilo and Stitch (U)
Wednesday 23-Wednesday 30 July
Elio (PG) and Jurassic World: Rebirth (12A)
Monday 28-Thursday 31 July
Superman (12A)
Monday 4-Thursday 7 August
The Wild Robot (U)
Tuesday 5-Wednesday 6 August
The Bad Guys 2 (U)
Friday 8-Thursday 12 August
More films to be announced.
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Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff
Wednesdays and Fridays
Superman and How To Train Your Dragon are first up.
Plus free packed lunches from Momday to Friday for all children under 18, from 11.30am-2pm
Riverfront, Newport
From £3.50 per person
Lilo & Stitch (U)
Monday 21-Thursday 31 July
Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning (12A)
Tuesday 22-Thursday 24 July
Karate Kid Legends (12A)
Tuesday 29-Thursday 31 July
How To Train Your Dragon (PG)
Friday 1-Thursday 7 August
Elio (PG)
Saturday 9-Thursday 14 August
Smurfs (U)
Friday 15-Thursday 21 August
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