St Fagans National Museum Of History

Step back in time and experience the history and culture of Wales at St Fagans National Museum of History, a unique and fascinating attraction in the heart of Cardiff.

Visitor Information: St Fagans National Museum Of History

• St Fagans National Museum Of History

  Description

  St Fagans National Museum of History, located in Cardiff, Wales, is a unique and fascinating attraction that showcases the history and culture of Wales. The museum is set in the picturesque grounds of St Fagan’s Castle and Gardens, and is home to over 40 historic buildings that have been relocated from across Wales.

  Visitors to St Fagan’s can explore the museum’s vast collection of buildings and exhibits, which offer a window into Welsh life over the centuries. Among the many buildings on display are a medieval church, a Victorian schoolhouse, a Welsh longhouse, and a Tudor merchant’s house. Each building has been carefully restored and furnished to recreate the atmosphere and lifestyle of its original occupants.

  The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from traditional crafts and trades to farming and industry. Visitors can watch demonstrations of traditional skills such as weaving, spinning, and blacksmithing, and learn about the history of Welsh agriculture and industry. The museum also has an impressive collection of Welsh costume and textiles, including a rare collection of Welsh quilts.

  One of the highlights of a visit to St Fagan’s is the opportunity to see traditional craftspeople at work. The museum has a team of skilled craftspeople who demonstrate traditional skills and techniques, such as pottery, basket weaving, and woodworking. Visitors can watch as these craftspeople create beautiful and unique pieces, and even try their hand at some of the crafts themselves.

  Another unique aspect of St Fagan’s is the opportunity to experience traditional Welsh music and dance. The museum hosts regular performances of traditional Welsh music and dance, featuring local musicians and dancers. Visitors can join in the fun and learn some traditional dance steps, or simply sit back and enjoy the music.

  The museum also has a range of other attractions, including a gift shop selling traditional Welsh crafts and souvenirs, and a café serving delicious food and drinks.

  In conclusion, St Fagan’s National Museum of History is a unique and fascinating attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into Welsh history and culture. With its impressive collection of historic buildings and exhibits, skilled craftspeople, and vibrant cultural events, St Fagan’s is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Welsh history and culture.

• Highlights

  Not to be missed when visiting

  Historic Buildings: The museum is home to over 40 original buildings from different historical periods, which have been re-erected on the museum’s grounds. This includes houses, a farm, a school, a chapel, and a splendid Workmen’s Institute.

  St Fagans Castle: A late 16th-century manor house, St Fagans Castle and its beautiful surrounding gardens are well worth a visit.

  Craftsmen and Demonstrations: You can see traditional crafts being practised by skilled craftsmen, with demonstrations of pottery, blacksmithing, baking, and more.

  Native Breeds: At the museum, you can see a variety of animals and livestock, especially those native to Wales, being kept as they would have been in the past.

  Gardens and Woodlands: The museum is located within 100 acres of beautiful parkland and woods, perfect for walking and picnicking.

  Iron Age Settlement: Discover the Bryn Eryr Iron Age Farmstead, a group of roundhouses built based on archaeological remains dating back 2,000 years.

  Llys Llywelyn – Medieval Prince’s Court: Experience the royal lifestyle at this reconstructed medieval court of the Welsh princes.

  Gweithdy – Craft Workshop: This modern, sustainable building celebrates the skills of makers past and present, and encourages visitors to have a go themselves.