To mark Cadw’s Open Doors heritage festival, more than 200 of Wales’ historic sites, landmarks and hidden gems will offer visitors free entry this September - seven of which are in Powys.

The ever-popular festival of Wales’ built heritage runs throughout September and will encourage Powys residents and visitors alike to explore some of the country’s lesser-known sites - several of which are usually closed to the public.

In Mid Wales the 2022 programme features a range of historic venues, including Dolforwyn Castle,in Abermule, Powis Castle in Welshpool and Llanfyllin Work House in Llanfyllin.

Across Wales, 17 Cadw sites in total will be opening their doors to visitors during September, as part of the celebration of Welsh heritage.

Six staffed Cadw sites, including two of Wales’ iconic historic sites ― Caerleon Amphitheatre and Barracks and Laugharne Castle in south Wales ― will be offering members of the public free site access during the month-long heritage celebration.

Meanwhile, 11 of Cadw’s unstaffed sites, many of which are usually closed to the public, will also offer guided tours for free on select dates in September - including Barclodiad-y-Gawres Burial Chamber on Anglesey.

Non-Cadw sites such as Abercamlais House are also offering tours of areas usually closed to the public - including the mansion’s Victorian iron suspension bridge and one hectare kitchen-garden.

Gwilym Hughes, Head of Cadw and Deputy Director in Welsh Government, said: “We warmly welcome the return of Open Doors ― Wales’ annual contribution to European Heritage Days ― running throughout September.

“Not only is it a celebration of the rich and fascinating history Wales has to offer, but an opportunity for more people than ever before to inspire a life-long love of history and culture ― especially our younger generations.

“And by opening these sites for free, we hope to provide an equal opportunity for all to explore, enjoy and uncover the untold stories of Welsh history on their doorstep.”

Pre-booking for Cadw sites, whether staffed unstaffed, is not necessary - walk-ins are encouraged to simply turn up to visit their favourite monument, and can even join the complimentary guided tours at select sites.

For the full list of Cadw and non-Cadw heritage sites taking part in Open Doors across Wales, please visit cadw.gov.wales/visit/whats-on/open-doors-events

For information on how to attend an Open Doors event not being hosted at a Cadw site, visitors should contact the relevant venue directly or visit their individual website for further information as ticket requirements vary per site.