Caerphilly Castle welcomed over 7,000 visitors across the Easter weekend, as people enjoyed a range of events and attractions in the bank holiday sunshine.
On Good Friday, visitors were treated with the eggs-citing arrival of giant eggs in a nest next to the castle’s two resident dragons, Dewi and Dwynwen.
The winged beasts were brought to life by Cardiff-based prop design specialists, Wild Creations, and weigh a massive two tonnes. Visitors are encouraged to keep an eye on the recently-laid eggs, with a surprise potentially on the horizon.
Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Infrastructure, Ken Skates, said: “The reception that the dragon eggs received at Caerphilly Castle was overwhelming – it really demonstrates how innovative ideas can help to spark a renewed interest in Welsh heritage.”
The Welsh Government’s historic environment service, Cadw, confirmed that visitor numbers rose by more than 70% than when Dewi first pitched up at the castle on St David’s Day last year, with 7,320 flocking to Wales’ largest castle over the Easter bank holiday.
Meanwhile, on Easter Sunday, a large number of people joined in a world record attempt for the largest assembly of Tommy Cooper impressionists at the inaugural Feztival, named in honour of the late Caerphilly-born comedian.
It is hoped that the Feztival will become a regular event.
Chair of the Tommy Cooper Society, Tudor Jones, said: “[We] would like to give a big thank you to everybody who made [the event] such a success. People came in record numbers and Cadw’s team ensured it was a real fun day for all the family.
“We hope this will become an annual event in Caerphilly, and possibly extend to include other venues and attractions in the town so that it can truly become a Feztival of the performing and visual arts and encourage people, especially the young, to actively participate.”
Organisations or individuals interested in being involved in next year’s Feztival can contact Mr Jones on 02920 883316.
