10 free things to do this summer

The best things in life are free, so here at Penarth View we’ve scoured the streets of South Wales to find the best free treats for summer’18!

1. TAFWYL – Tafwyl is a Welsh language music festival held in the heart of the capital. Cardiff castle plays host to this 2-day celebration of Welsh arts and culture. There’s loads of great bands to check out and a range of family friendly activities. Some of your favourite restaurants from around Cardiff will be giving their own twist on street food! Both Welsh and English speakers are welcome & best of all – its free! Cardiff Castle – 30th June-1st July

2. Caffi Sio – is a new venture from the beloved Chapter Arts Centre in Canton. Caffi Sio in Cardiff Bay is throwing open its doors, where artist Laura Sorvala will be creating a new work of art, to illustrate the journey of Chapter over the last 47years. Make sure to head over and check out the work as it develops. Caffi Sio, Lloyd George Avenue, Cardiff Bay – 4th-6th July

3. Cardiff International Food & Drink Festival – Cardiff Bay will be a foodie’s paradise this summer! 2018’s festival will be packed with delicious food from local, national and international producers. Craft Beer and a champagne bar will also be there for you to enjoy! Live music and craft stalls will also play a huge part in the festival, making sure the carnival atmosphere will last all weekend! Roald Dahl Plass, Cardiff Bay, 6th-8th July

4. Margam Country Park – Where else in Wales can you find a Grade I listed castle, an 18th century orangery, ornamental gardens and a deer park? Margam Park is set in 1,000 acres of beautiful countryside and really is a gem. Kids are covered too, with a range of attractions and playgrounds to keep them entertained. Entry to the park & most of the attractions are free! Neath, Port Talbot, SA13 2TJ

5. Barafundle Bay – If you’re having a day at the beach this summer, make sure it’s at Barafundle Bay! Situated in Pembrokeshire, Barafundle Bay has been voted as the best beach in the UK and one of the twelve best beaches in the world! Formerly a private beach, Barafundle Bay is now thankfully part of the National Trust. There is no direct road to the beach & you can only reach it via the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, which is around a mile walk. Don’t be put off though, this stunning beach is well worth the effort to reach the sands. Barafundle Bay, Stackpole, Pembrokeshire

6. The Senedd – You’ve probably walked past the Senedd 100 times, but have you ever ventured inside? Check out the heart of the Welsh Government this summer, where you can marvel at the stunning architecture and sit in the public galleries to witness a debate in the Senedd chamber. Cardiff Bay Link Road, Cardiff, CF10 4PZ

7. Sully Island – This small tidal island is the perfect spot for an afternoon adventure. Sully Island can only be accessed at low tide for the car park of The Captains’s Wife. The 14 and a half acres of Sully Island has a fascinating history. A Norman pirate – Alfredo De Marisco used the island as his base during the 13th century. Sully Island was also employed by the smuggling trade in the middle ages. In more recent years, it’s become known for its record number of emergency rescues, when visitors have to be saved from the tide. Stay Safe! Beach Road, Swanbridge, CF64 5UG

8. Penarth Library – This beloved Penarth institution has tons of maximum fun stuff on this summer. There will be a range of activities on for summer 2018 that will prove popular through the generations. Make sure you show your support for Penarth Library! Stanwell Road, Penarth, CF64 2YT

9. Barry Island – Barry Island is the ultimate day out at the seaside in South Wales! Barry Island is a beautiful blue flag beach, which also doubles as the Holy Grail for Gavin & Stacey fans! Barry Island is full of the old school charm of the seaside and is a total must this summer. Barry Island, Barry, CF62 5AJ

10. Penarth Pier – How can you do summer in Penarth without having a day out on the Pier? The iconic Penarth Pier is best enjoyed on a sunny day, where you can enjoy views across the Bristol Channel. Take a stroll down the promenade and if you’re feeling brave, take a dip in the sea! The Esplanade, Penarth, CF64 3AU