I first discovered this last year when Martin Lewis mentioned it on tv. Although England has their own events planned it's nothing like Wales. Throughout September, the national trust, Cadw and local sites open up to the public. Places such as libraries, churches, castles and much more. Most are free but some may take a small donation or a cost for booking. Some may require booking, but others you can just turn up on the day.
Last year the first one I went to was an open day at St Margaret's church Roath in Cardiff. Just a stone's throw away from my house situated next to Waterloo gardens. As we arrived they had already started doing a walking tour around the church. It gave you an overview of the stonework, what had been destroyed in the war and rebuilt.
When we went inside the church, we were warmly welcomed and then handed a leaflet. The leaflet was a great help, telling you the layout of the church and facts about it. To the side of the church, there was tea and cake for £2, which were so tasty. There was also a brick a brack sale with donations going towards the church. My boyfriend and I both bought a money plant each that are still blossoming to this day.
They also had the tower to the roof opened for you to climb. It's a bit of a tight squeeze and if you're not steady on your feet maybe avoid the climb. Once you get to the top though its worth the spectacular view. Once again the church is open this year if you fancy attending. On September 15th they open 12.30- 5.30pm and on the 16th 2-5.30pm.
Another place I visited was Tredegar house situated in Newport. The house to enter would normally cost £10.40 for an adult and £5.20 for children with gift aid. But this year on the 15th September between 10.30- 5 pm the door will be open for free. You can learn about the history of the house, as well as dressing up in some attire of the times gone by. There is also a huge park and grounds to explore afterwards.
One of the big adventures you can have is exploring many of Wales castles. During the open doors events, many castles are open for you to explore. Pictured above firstly is Chepstow castle open this year on September 29th and 30th between 11-4pm. There also are tours as well be held at 11 am 1 pm and 3 pm.
Also, another of my favourite places that's I visited in the past was Tretower court and castle. Here you can see the ruins, the court and its beautiful gardens. Like most of the castles, they are also open 29th and 30th September 11 am till 4 pm.
What I have mentioned above are a few I have visited in the past, but this year I will explore more. Places I would not normally visit or would be a bit costly to visit otherwise. If you fancy attending any open events follow the link below to see what is on offer.