Cardigan News

National Trust opens doors for free

12:07pm Wednesday 1st September 2010

As part of Open Doors and European Heritage Days the National Trust will be opening its country houses, glorious gardens and historic properties in Wales for free on Saturday 11 September.

Llyr Huws Gruffydd from the National Trust in Wales said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to come and explore some of the special places in the National Trust’s care free of charge. From captivating castles full of treasures and tales from past times to beautiful gardens bursting with colour and scent there are great days out just waiting to be discovered.”

European Heritage Days are an initiative of the Council of Europe. In Wales the event is co-ordinated by the Civic Trust for Wales on behalf of Cadw and the Welsh Assembly Government. The initiative was launched in 1991 and last year over 20 million people visited participating sites in Europe.

Over 200 properties will be open across Wales during the Open Doors weekends including many National Trust places. Information about participating National Trust properties can be found on www.nationaltrust.org.uk Information about Open Doors and European Heritage Days can be found at www.civictrustwales.org or www.heritagedays.net.

Here’s a selection of the National Trust events on offer in south Wales: Llanerchaeron, Ceredigion Take a walk through the enchanting walled garden – with its fabulous collection of vegetables, fruit, herbs and flowers. Visit the Villa with its dairy, laundry, brewery, and salting house, or wander over to the home farm to see the Welsh pigs, Llanwennog sheep, and Welsh Black Cattle. This place is a rare example of a self-sufficient eighteenth-century estate of a minor Welsh gentry family. Every time you visit you will find something new to see and enjoy.

Dolaucothi Goldmines, Llanwrda These unique Roman gold mines are set amid wooded hillsides with splendid views of the beautiful Cothi Valley and three estate walks.

Dinefwr Park and Castle, Llandeilo You can re-live Edwardian life below stairs in Newton House; climb to the romantic ruins of Dinefwr Castle, once home to the princes of Deheubarth; explore the sweeping parkland, restored to its 18th century glory and walk amongst Dinefwr's ancient giants - towering trees that have survived for centuries. Restore flagging energy with delicious home cooked delicacies on offer in our inviting tea room and browse in our welcoming shop.

Stackpole, Pembrokeshire There's a rolling programme of events to choose from including 'Stackpole Rediscovered' bringing the estate's history to life and featuring local memories and photos; walks and talks, pond dipping, a fair to celebrate the International Year of Biodiversity, outdoor theatre, local produce stands and craft and history displays. Food will be on sale throughout the day.

Colby Woodland Garden, Pembrokeshire Set in a tranquil and secluded valley this beautiful woodland garden has year-round interest, with one of the best collections of rhododendrons and azaleas in Wales. Its open and wooded pathways through the valley offer lovely walks.

Tudor Merchants’ House, Tenby This National Trust property is a late 15C town house characteristic of the old port town of Tenby. Furnished to recreate family life from the Tudor period onwards, come and visit the property to discover how staff and volunteers care for this special house. There are Tudor customes for children to try on and replica to

• Email this page