CHIRK Castle is planning to bring back the Summer of Play with a 6,100 square metre temporary activity area for families on Pool Ley Field.
Plans have been submitted to Wrexham County Borough Council to section off a huge swathe of grazing land adjacent to the castle car park between July 14 and September 8, temporarily changing its use to become a visitor attraction.
Summer of Play is an initiative by the National Trust – which has protective ownership of Chirk Castle and it’s grounds. The castle hosted its first Summer of Play in 2023 and it returned last year, when it was situated on Pool Ley Field.
If approved by Wrexham Council’s Planning Committee, the idea will be to offer children and families a chance to enjoy the space and explore outdoor play through the school summer holidays.
With a tipi in the centre the space will become a huge activity zone with periscopes, straw bale pyramids, craft corners and cosy reading nooks.
There will be mediaeval dress up and play items including bamboo sticks, foam noodles and balls to spark children’s imagination.
Sheltered picnic tables will be in place for a quick snack to recharge.
Designed for families and children of all ages, there will also be drop-in events advertised nearer the time.
There will be no need to pre-book and members can gain entry free of charge. Non-members will need to pay entry fees but under fives visit for free.
“Our work at Chirk recognises the fundamental contradiction at play with a castle constructed to dominate, that now shares deep connections through Welsh and English culture,” wrote National Trust planning adviser John Pearson.
“It is a property that welcomes composers, artists and actors; a creative haven in which to entertain and be entertained. We seek to manage one of the most important heritage sites in the UK to be lively, informal, relaxing, fun and surprising.
“It is these factors which have led to the project for the Summer of Play 2025. This, our third year, builds on the experience of the last two years. We will take some of the practical lessons learned to reduce the impact but continue to enhance our visitor experience.”
A Grade One listed building, Chirk Castle was transferred to the Trust’s protective ownership in 1981 and welcomes over 170,000 visitors a year.
The gardens and park include several other listed buildings.
Visitors will also be able to enjoy the traditional walks around the castle and grounds as they delve into the rich history of the fortress.
