Calan Gaeaf: After dark at Chirk Castle
As darkness descends, join us for Calan Gaeaf with a touch of Halloween spirit. Inspired by Welsh folklore and wandering spirits, this immersive after-hours experience promises magic, mystery and mischief.
- Booking essential
Are you brave enough to step inside Chirk Castle after dark?
Join us on Saturday 31 October for Calan Gaeaf Late, an immersive after-hours experience celebrating Welsh folklore and tradition, with a touch of Halloween magic.
Calan Gaeaf, meaning the ‘First Day of Winter’, marked the beginning of the darker half of the year, a time when it was believed the boundary between the living and spirit worlds grew thin.
As night falls, venture from Home Farm to the castle, exploring some of Chirk’s most atmospheric and mysterious spaces.
Between 6pm and 8pm, you’ll encounter a cast of legendary characters from Welsh myth and folklore, including Puck, the White Lady, the Hwch Ddu Gwta and a whole host of mischievous, shape-shifting fairies.
Around every corner, expect the unexpected as professional performers, atmospheric lighting and immersive soundscapes bring ancient tales to life.
Eerie, immersive and full of surprises, this is an experience unlike any other.
The Courtyard Café will be open throughout the evening, serving a selection of food and drinks, and the Courtyard Shop will also be open for visitors to browse.
Fancy joining in? Costumes and dressing up are encouraged.
Times
Prices
| Ticket type | Ticket category |
|---|---|
| All | £10.00 |
The basics
- Booking number
Call 0344 249 1895
- Accessibility
The experience includes outdoor routes and historic areas of Chirk Castle, some of which have limited accessibility. A minibus will be available for visitors who require assistance travelling towards the castle. Please contact the property before booking if you have specific access requirements.
- Meeting point
The experience begins at Home Farm, with the route continuing up the hill towards Chirk Castle. Please follow event signage and instructions from the team on arrival.
- Suitability for children
Recommended for ages 14+
- What to bring and wear
Dress for the weather with suitable outdoor footwear. Much of the experience takes place outdoors and follows the route from Home Farm up to the castle. Costumes and dressing up are encouraged.
- Other
Dogs are not permitted at this event.
Upcoming events
Cadw Open Doors 2026 at Chirk Castle
This September, we're joining more than 200 of Wales’ historic sites, landmarks and hidden gems to offer visitors free entry.
Calan Gaeaf
This October half term, uncover Welsh folklore and curious tales from Chirk Castle’s past on a family trail through the autumn garden.