Why the Welsh ‘gamer generation’ still loves castles

• Research conducted for People’s Postcode Lottery reveals that historic castles in Wales and fortresses are a big draw for the ‘gamer generation’.
• TV broadcaster, author, and historian Professor Kate Williams backs efforts by The National Trust to encourage children to learn about history through adventurous days out and “a dusting of magic.”
• The findings show that, despite the allure of tech-led attractions such as theme parks and VR headsets, Welsh children aged 8-14 are still enthralled by gallows, ghosts and dressing up.

Seventy-nine per cent said they wanted to visit a castle this summer, which is likely to be welcome news for parents desperate for ideas to entertain their offspring during the long school break.

Highly rated things to do at historic venues include jumping around on an adventure playground (70%), watching – or taking part in – jousting matches or mock battles (52%), and exploring creepy dungeons or listening to ghost stories (50%).

Welcoming the news, leading TV historian, author and broadcaster Professor Kate Williams said: “I applaud the efforts of the National Trust to organise a host of events for children over the holidays. Wales has amazing places to visit such as Powis Castle near Welshpool in Powys and Penrhyn Castle, between Snowdonia and the Menai Strait. History is always exciting for youngsters and particularly when we focus on storytelling, adventures, and a dusting of magic!”

David Miller, head of communications at People’s Postcode Lottery, added: “It’s great to see that kids still love pastimes that fire up their imagination, even if technology still gets a look in. The children surveyed said they like interactive audio-visual displays (42%), especially ones that bring the past to vivid life. Players of People’s Postcode Lottery raised £5,481,500 for the National Trust since 2012 so it’s fantastic to see the gamer generation keen to ditch their devices and explore the exciting activities on offer at castles across Wales.”

The Wieteska family is a perfect example, with two children – Laila (11) and Ethan (13) – to keep amused during the holidays. According to mum Emily, both can be persuaded to put away their gadgets provided there’s lots of activities laid on. She said: “We love visiting castles, forts and other venues that have an exciting past and have found a way to bring it to life.  It encourages the kids to let off steam, while learning a little bit about our ancestors and how they lived.  Many castles around here offer family tickets which is most welcome as costs can add up.”

Stacey Hall from The National Trust said visiting castles was likely to be an exciting experience this summer. “We have worked hard to create amazing days out for families, with a host of entertainment laid on, and lots of activities – inside and outside – to burn off youthful energy.”