In September 1947, Cardiff was given the greatest gift ever when the 5^thMarquess of Bute presented Cardiff Castle and its parklands to its citizens. To mark the 70^thanniversary of this remarkable event, the Castle will be taking a trip back to the 1940s in a special day full of nostalgia for this post-war period to be held on Sunday 10 September from 10am to 5pm.

The sounds of the 1940s will drift through the Castle grounds, with performances from the bandstand by The Siren Sisters, Hot Potato Syncopators and the City of Cardiff (Melingriffith) Brass Band who actually played at the original ceremony in 1947. Come along in costume, bring along a picnic and enjoy the music, use your talents to help create a 1940s radio play, take part in some traditional much-loved children's games such as sack and three - legged races and 1940s circus skills. Cookery demonstrations by ‘The History Chefs' will show how meagre rations were made to go further during this time of austerity.

A special anniversary lecture will be given by Curator, Matthew Williams, who will tell the detailed story of the circumstances and negotiations that led to this special gift to the city. There is limited availability for the lecture and an additional charge, therefore pre booking for this element of the day is advised on 029 2087 8100.

Cabinet Member for Sport, Culture and Leisure, Cllr Peter Bradbury said, ‘The Castle and its parklands are much-loved civic treasures at the emotional heart of the city. This event is a great opportunity to acknowledge the gift by the Bute family. Cardiff Castle Key holders will be able to use their cards to get free admission to the Castle on this day.'