Fonmon Castle near Barry in the Vale of Glamorgan is offering a host of summer activities, running from July 20 until September 7.
They include family fun weekends packed with shows and opportunities to meet superheroes and fairy-tale characters, plus a classic car show and a tribute music festival dedicated to the rock band Queen – a UK first.
Fonmon Castle is a picturesque castle dating from Norman times. Its extensive grounds, open throughout the summer holidays, include nature trails, a dinosaur park, a medieval village, adventure playgrounds, romantic gardens, and a Welsh folklore trail. Archery, axe throwing, and disc golf are also available.
Formerly a private home, the castle has been owned since 2019 by Nigel Ford, who opened it to the public as a family attraction with a focus on fun, community, and sustainability.
He said:
“We’re delighted to be heading into our biggest summer yet. We’ve brought back popular events, such as our car show and character weekends, but we’re always looking to add something new, and this year we’re excited to be staging the UK’s first Queen tribute festival. With the main stage in a festival marquee, street food vendors and lots more, including a choir and a brass band, it’s going to be a fantastic day-long festival in a perfect setting.”
Character events this summer
The ticket price for the character events includes access to all the castle’s attractions except the archery or disc golf, for which there is an additional charge.
July 20-21: The Magical Candle
Three daily shows bring to life the spellbinding tale of The Magical Candle. After each show, you can meet your favourite characters and get your photo taken.
July 27-28: Pirates vs Fairies
Fairies take centre stage for three magical shows a day, while the pirates lead swashbuckling adventure games. There will be plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
August 3-4: Ice Princesses
The Ice Princesses and friends are at Fonmon Castle for three shows a day, followed by meet-and-greet sessions where you can snap photos with the characters.
August 10-11: Under the Sea
A must for mermaid fans, Fonmon Castle’s special Under the Sea weekend includes three shows a day, each followed by a chance to meet your favourite characters for photos.
August 17-18: Film Weekend
Meet some of your favourite characters from the big screen, with three live performances and photo opportunities each day.
August 24-26: Superhero Weekend
Meet your favourite superheroes in this action-packed weekend for all ages. Fancy dress is optional!
End of Summer big weekend events
September 7: Classic Car Show and Family Fun Day
Fonmon Castle’s hugely popular annual Classic Car Show is back, offering classic cars, music, stalls, food and drink and more.
September 15: Queen of the Castle
Queen of The Castle is the UK’s first festival dedicated to the music of the iconic rock band, Queen. It features sets by The Rhapsody Rock Orchestra, Adriano Graziani and Flash – the ultimate live Queen Tribute Band, plus a brass band, choir, DJ, licensed bar and street food vendors. The Main Stage will be in a large festival marquee. Queen fancy dress is encouraged.
