Illuminata 2011 and Illuminata banquets

As darkness falls, Caerphilly Castle will be bathed in light for a twice nightly sound and light show. Illuminata, reflects the fascinating history of this iconic stronghold.

The story of five periods in Caerphilly’s long history will told as part of the light and sound show as audiences are transported through centuries of conflict from the medieval battles of Gilbert de Clare and Llywelyn Bren, when the castle was attacked and besieged, through to the grisly end of Hugh Despenser and Edward II, before moving on to the ravages of the Civil War and the castle’s subsequent restoration by Coal Baron, the fourth marquess of Bute.

With a film by celebrated digital artist Ross Ashton projected onto the castle’s inner ward walls, the sound and light shows delivers a truly wow factor event. However, the film is only one part of a full evening’s entertainment with fire displays as well as a number of high quality medieval banquets offered on selected evenings. From the overwhelmingly positive feedback gained from visitors last year, this is a fantastic opportunity for any group to sample the history of this impressive fortress in style.

For something a little special and for those who truly want to make a night of it, there's feasting and entertainment in the Castle's Great Hall as the medieval banquets take charge. The banquets commence (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) following the last Illuminata showing of the night. Tickets are priced at £30.00 per person, booking early is advisable as tickets are limited.

Check the website for full details on show times and banquets.

Illuminata is supported by the £19m European funded Heritage Tourism Project, backed by £8.5m from the European Regional Development Fund.