The Christmas season is well underway and for many people it’s the most wonderful time of the year with festive cheer all round. If you are lucky enough to live in Wales or be visiting during the holiday season, there’s no shortage of special days out that are suitable for all the family. Here are some suggestions for getting into the spirit of Christmas in Wales.

St Fagans National History Museum, Cardiff

If you are in the Welsh capital this Christmas, do not miss the opportunity to visit St Fagans National History Museum. It is the UK’s earliest open air museum, and reflects the lives of ordinary people in Wales. It stands in the grounds of St Fagans Castle and Gardens, a late 16th century manor house, and it is host to a variety of Christmas events.

Since the museum was founded in 1948, over forty buildings from different historical periods have been erected in the 100-acre parklands, including a school, a farm, houses, a chapel, and the Workmen’s Institute. There are also galleries where you can view traditional Welsh crafts and artworks that reflect the culture and history of the country.

Among the highlights is a collection of Welsh lovespooms, including the earliest known example dating from 1667. These spoons are not designed for use in the kitchen, but are purely decorative and symbolic. They were thought to have been carved by sailors as a way to show off their craftsmanship, and as a love token for their sweetheart. 

Among the many festive events this December is a visit by Father Christmas and friends, a Christmas Makers Market where you can buy local crafts and produce, carols in the chapel, and a festive Sunday lunch.

Chirk Castle

Chirk Castle near Wrexham in north east Wales is in a beautiful location, set on elevated ground with over 480 acres of parkland, including 5.5 acres of expertly cultivated gardens and woodland. It’s located with an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is also a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest for wildflowers, fungi, bats and invertebrates.

The origins of the castle date back to the 13th century when it was constructed as a defensive fortress during the reign of Edward I. Today it is remarkably well preserved, with beautiful interiors including 18th century State Rooms and a 17th century long gallery.

This Christmas at Chirk, the castle has an enchanted decoration scheme inspired by the painting Orpheus Charming the Animals by Thomas Ffrances. The animals are reimagined and brought to life to bring a lively and immersive festive atmosphere to the interior.

There is also the chance for families to visit Santa in his grotto and to have a festive supper on Friday 15 December, with tickets available in advance from the National Trust website.  There’s handbell ringing sessions in the chapel throughout December, and a chance to do some superb shopping for special treats at the Home Farm Shop.

Boxing Day Swim, Tenby

For those brave souls who enjoy the adrenaline rush of an icy dip in coastal waters, you can’t do better than the Tenby Boxing Day swim. Brush off those Christmas cobwebs and burn off a few calories with a bracing dash into the sea at Tenby in Pembrokeshire, south west Wales.

The annual event celebrated its half century last year, and the fun continues with a Disney Fancy Dress theme this year, kicking off with a parade in the area at 11.15am on 26 December. It’s all in aid of a good cause with a £5 entrance fee, sponsorships and collections taking place on the day.  Spectators are of course welcome!

Penrhyn Castle and Garden, Bangor

The imposing Penrhyn Castle on the outskirts of Bangor and Bethesda in north west Wales has the Snowdonia mountains and the Menai Straits as its backdrop. There’s also acres of woodlands and parkland to explore for winter walks. 

The 19th century castle boasts opulent interiors that are lavishly decorated for Christmas, with a tasteful mixture of traditional and modern decorations. Enjoy the giant Christmas tree in the Grand Staircase and crafts and board games in the various rooms around the castle, and follow up with festive treats in the tearoom.

Dinefwr Park and Castle, Llandeilo

Dinefwr Castle and parklands in Carmarthenshire is a superb example of a 17th century manor house and an 18th century landscape, with delightful grounds and a charming interior. This Christmas, the house will be decorated with sustainable hand made decorations, and there will be choirs and carol singers providing the festive atmosphere.