St Fagans National History Museum is a pretty incredible outdoor museum not far outside of Cardiff. It’s one of the largest open-air museums in Europe and one of the most popular visitor attractions in Wales. And the best part? It’s all free! (Although if you drive you do have to pay for parking.)
The museum is in the 100 acre grounds of St Fagans Castle and gardens, a late 16th century manor house donated to the people of Wales by the Earl of Plymouth in the 40s. I would have gone nuts here as a kid. It’s essentially the most incredible place to run around.
Since 1948, over 40 original buildings from different historical periods have been re-erected in the grounds for people to explore, including a farm, a school, a chapel and a Workmen’s Institute. Plus there are workshops and farmyards where local craftsmen carryon Welsh traditions. We visited from about 2pm till near closing. The really interesting part of visiting at that time of day was getting to experience how electricity made such a difference in people’s lives- as the sun was setting some of the oldest dwellings were plunged into darkness. You could just imagine calling it a very early night to save money on fires and candles.
If you are in the area soon the big Winter Solstice Feast is occurring on the 20th of December!
St Fagans Castle.
Inside St Fagans Castle.
Have you visited St Fagans before?
This visit took place as part of my trip to Cardiff with Visit Wales as part of their #XmasCardiff campaign. However, as always, all opinions and photos (unless stated) are my own. I would recommend this attraction to anyone who is planning a trip to Cardiff.
