History fans flock to re-opened castle

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picture courtesy of Swansea County Council

OVER 1,100 history fans have already flocked to Oystermouth Castle so far this month.

The landmark, which re-opened on April 1, is now again available for residents and visitors to explore until the end of September.

A dungeons and dragons event on April 4 that attracted over 600 visitors is among the activities to have taken place so far.

Swansea Council and the Friends of Oystermouth Castle run the attraction. Other events taking place this summer include a living history day on Saturday May 23, an archaeology day on Saturday July 25 and a play on Monday August 3. A series of craft fun days for children will also be held over coming months.

The castle is open every day throughout the summer from 11am to 5pm. Features include ancient graffiti art from the 14th Century, a 30-foot high glass bridge and private staircases leading from vaults to rooms once used as banqueting halls.

A major conservation scheme was recently carried out at Oystermouth Castle with funds from the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Welsh Government through Cadw and the European Regional Development Fund. The scheme was supported by the Friends of Oystermouth Castle.

Cllr Robert Francis-Davies, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Enterprise, Development and Regeneration, said: “It’s extremely encouraging to hear that so many people have already enjoyed everything that Oystermouth Castle has to offer so far this year. It’s a fantastic attraction that gives visitors an experience that’s as fun as it is educational. The landmark’s conservation and our close work alongside the Friends of Oystermouth Castle shows how serious we are about protecting our heritage for future generations to enjoy.

“The weekend’s sunshine also meant the promenade was heaving, with hundreds of people making the most of facilities like the Bay Rider land train, the boating lake and pitch and putt golf. There’s no better place to be when the sun is out because of the combination of these attractions with our world class coastal scenery.”

Oystermouth Castle was originally built in 1106 after Gower was captured by the Normans. King Edward I, also known as Edward Longshanks and the Hammer of the Scots, briefly visited the landmark in December, 1284.

Have a look at www.swansea.gov.uk/oystermouthcastle or for more information.


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