CASTLES across Wales will open their doors for free on Sunday in celebration of Wales reaching the last 16 in the European Football Championship.

Economy and Infrastructure Secretary, Ken Skates, said this week he was delighted to confirm the Welsh Government is opening the doors, free of charge, to all of its directly-managed Cadw sites on Sunday 26 June to mark Wales’ historic achievement.

Following Monday night’s tremendous 3-0 victory against Russia, which also placed Wales at the top of its qualifying group, Mr Skates said: “We entered this competition with a real feeling that qualification was just the start for this group of players and we were right.

“From fan behaviour to Wales’ performance on the pitch, this tournament has captured the hearts and minds of this country and really helped to showcase to the rest of the world what Wales is truly capable of.

Following Monday’s result he said: “We waited 58 years for this opportunity but it was certainly worth the wait.

“This has unquestionably been our Year of Adventure so far and long may it continue. I am pleased to confirm that not only will our castles remain illuminated in red but also, this Sunday, everyone will have the opportunity to visit our directly-managed Cadw sites for free.

“I hope the people of Wales will take full advantage of this opportunity and enjoy a thoroughly fun, informative and fulfilling day out to help celebrate the success of our national football team.”

There are 24 directly-managed Cadw sites in Wales where the special offer applies.

The castles that will open their doors for free are:

· Beaumaris Castle

· Caernarfon Castle

· Conwy Castle

· Harlech Castle

· Criccieth Castle

· Plas Mawr Elizabethan Town House

· Denbigh Castle

· Rhuddlan Castle

· Rug Chapel

· Valle Crucis Abbey

· Cilgerran Castle

· Kidwelly Castle

· Laugharne Castle

· Oxwich Castle

· St David’s Bishop’s Palace

· Strata Florida Abbey

· Caerphilly Castle

· Castell Coch

· Chepstow Castle

· Raglan Castle

· Tintern Abbey

· Tretower Court & Castle

· Blaenavon Ironworks*

· Caerleon Roman Baths*